Monthly Archives: December 2011

Happy Hannya

Check it! Lawren Alice was among the many talented artists that participated in The Hannya Mask Show we had here at the gallery, here’s an awesome video of her making her Hannya Mask.

Damien Hirst is taking over the art world…

And it seems to be pissing off a lot of people.

Why is Damien Hirst so rich? Why do collectors buy up all his stuff? It’s a mystery…or it’s just about money and a name.  He’s put dead animals in tanks of formaldehyde, covered a skull in a bunch of diamonds, put some stuff in some medicine cabinets, and made spin art paintings (don’t elementary school kids do that?). All of this and he has somehow become a millionaire. What’s really annoying is that he rarely makes the art, he has an army of people mass producing it for him. The idea is his so he’s the artist, but are the ideas behind his art even that great? Many have speculated this, alluding to the fact that it’s possible that now Hirst  is just a famous name associated with a large dollar amount.

So how did one artist get so rich and famous? Apparently through Charles Saatchi who relentlessly promoted Hirst back in the early 90’s, when he was new and actually making interesting art. Saatchi is known for giving young talented British artists their gateway into fame.  Recently (kind of) in 2009 in an article for the Telegraph, Saatchi said Hirst’s work has been off-form for a while. Although Saatchi and other critics seem to be “over” Hirst, he is still wildly popular among collectors.

Hirst’s latest shenanigan is a planned retrospective that’s taking over all of the Gagosian galleries across the world. Hirst has convinced gallery owner Larry Gagosian to let him have a retrospective of all of his “spot” paintings that he started back in the 80′s and is now continuing (UH weird?). There are Gagosian galleries in London, New York, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, Athens, Geneva and Beverly Hills…and his spot paintings are going to fill all of them. That is serious. Richard Dorment, art critic for Telegraph in London, said the paintings were “fantastically boring”, and it seems that many agree.

The retrospective is launching January 12th, can’t wait to see what the reaction is.

Sonic Arboretum at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

Its a beautiful thing when art and music collide. Andrew Bird and Ian Schnellar are taking over the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago with a site specific sound installation called the Sonic Arboretum.  The installation is magical and not a typical museum experience.

If you’ve never listened to Andrew Bird then you are missing out, he is seriously skilled in a multitude of instruments and has the vocals to match. Ian Schnellar is a sculptor and instrument maker extraordinaire who has been repairing Andrew Birds instruments for years. The two joined forces to create the Sonic Arboretum which first took place at the Guggenheim in 2010.

Sonic Arboretum is the marriage between Andrew Birds compositions and Schnellars custom made horn speakers. the installation at MCA Chicago consists of 76 custom made horn speakers and provides for a unique listening experience. The horns range in size and are strategically placed throughout the main lobby, the idea is to create a sound experience that shifts as the visitor roams throughout the space. Andrew Bird created specific compositions for the exhibit while actually in the museum, the composition is divided into 24 separate audio channels (that’s crazy).

The exhibit runs December 6 – 31 with two special special events on Wednesday, December 21 and Thursday, December 22 where Bird will perform using the Sonic Arboretum as the P.A.

Video: Andrew Bird and Ian Schnellar – Sonic Arboretum

New Museum in Bentonville?

That’s in Arkansas, in case you were wondering. This story is just too weird, and awesome not to talk about. Who would have guessed that an heiress to the Wal-Mart empire would open up a gigantic museum? Don’t know, but it happened! Alice Walton (daughter of Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart) is apparently the 10th richest person in America according to Forbes, and has paid a fortune for many of her acquisitions.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a huge institution that took 6 (whoa) years to build. The museum is mostly comprised of the heiress Alice Walton’s personal collection. There are 6 buildings within the museum and one specific space allotted for traveling exhibitions. Right now the museum is exhibiting over 400 works of art, with twice as many in storage. The collection is impressive and ranges with art from the colonial era all the way to contemporary works, some of the most notable pieces being by Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, Jenny Holzer, and Nick Cave (*Swoon*).

The museum also has some other interesting features due to where it’s located. Guests are free to roam the museum’s surrounding forestry, springs, and trails on it’s 120 acres.

Image: Nick Cave piece from the collection.

DECEMBER 2011 – THE SCRIBBLE PARTY

GROUP SHOW

The concept for The Scribble Party came from Orlando curator and artist Elton Bracey. The Scribble Party features art that showcases the beauty of scribbling and sketching through small works by 14 Central Florida artists. We’ve asked the artists to constrain themselves to works in black and white and shades of gray.

Artists involved in the exhibition include Anna McCambridge-Thomas, Johannah O’Donnell, Carly Jean Andrews, Audrey Phillips, Laresa Tapia, Rick Jones, Heidi Kneisl, Plinio Pinto, Brian Dismore, Doug Woods, Carla Poindexter, Robert Poindexter, Steve Parker, and Elton Bracey

Art Basel Guide – 2011

The most magical time of year is here…. that’s right, Basel time. Art Basel is the most important Contemporary Art Fair in the United States, yes, MOST important. The whole thing can be pretty overwhelming, there is so much art from all over the world in Miami for one weekend, just one, and you somehow have to try to see all of it (or at least most of it). There’s also all the awesome parties, events, and random shenanigans – you know, the really fun stuff.

Technically speaking “Art Basel” – the contemporary art fair, exists in the Miami Convention Center. This is the main event, however there’s a whole slew of satellite art fairs and other events outside of the convention center that have become synonymous with the name and event, essentially being a big part of the whole experience.

So, you may be asking yourself, “what are the most exciting things going on? What are the details of these satellite fairs? What shouldn’t I miss? How do I make my trip awesome? Where the awesome parties at?” we made this handy guide for you.

The Main Event

Art Basel at Miami Beach Convention Center

This is where you’ll find the super established, upper echelon galleries and art superstars of the world. If you haven’t witnessed the overwhelming madness in the convention center before, you probably should, there is a lot of incredible art in here and it’s the basis of the whole weekend.

I personally would like to be spending a lot more time at the satellite fairs instead of in the convention center. It’s huge inside, its a never-ending maze, and easy to get lost. It becomes really hard to focus on any one thing. The first year I went I accidentally spent 8 hours inside, and missed everything else! But really, go! I just don’t want to.

Where: 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
When: Wednesday – Saturday: 12pm-8pm, Sunday: 12pm-6pm.
$: $40 (one day), $85 (full run), $28 (evening ticket after 4pm)
http://www.artbaselmiamibeach.com

The Satellite Fairs

The satellite fairs feature established, emerging, and mid-career artists and galleries. In my opinion, these fairs are more interesting then going to the actual convention center.

Scope

This will be scope’s 11th year. Scope is known for its cutting edge contemporary art from around the world. This year scope will be presenting 80 international galleries with solo and thematic group shows. You’ll see everything here including sculpture, painting, installation, photography, new media, and film, it’s a don’t miss.

Where: NE 1st Ave (Midtown Blvd) @ NE 30th St, Miami, Florida 33127
When: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am -7pm, Sunday: 11am – 6pm
$: 20
http://www.scope-art.com/

Art Asia

This fair carefully selects galleries from around the world that focus on the best of established and emerging contemporary artists throughout Asia. The unique event showcases artists not only from China and Japan, but also from India, Iran, Korea, Lebanon, Malaysia, The Philippines, Russia, Syria, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia and Turkey. You’ll see a wide array of really great work.

Where: NE 1st Ave (Midtown Blvd) @ NE 30th St, Miami, FL 33127
When: Wednesday-Saturday: 11-7, Sunday: 11-6
$: 20, students: 15

Art Miami

Art Miami is pretty big time. This is where it all started, art Miami is Miami’s original art fair and has become highly esteemed. This fair showcases the best from established international galleries and art institutions. This fair reminds me of Art Basel in the convention center, but toned down..with a little bit of sugar on it, and you’re less likely to get lost.

One of the highlights last year was the installation and interactive art outside of the indoor fair. Imagine frolicking through a forest of blue spaghetti or trying to squeeze yourself through what seems be a giant inflatable butt. FUN.

Where: Midtown Miami, 3101 NE 1st Avenue, Miami, FL 33137
When: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am -7pm, Sunday: 11am – 6pm
$: 15, students: 10
http://www.art-miami.com/

Pulse

Pulse Miami is now in its 7th year, and now more expansive showcasing 90 international exhibitors. Pulse has always shown some of the most interesting work in contemporary art, from both established and emerging artists. This year they have migrated over to the Ice Palace for a more spacious experience, and they also now have a new garden lounge (ooooooh nice!). Last year I remember seeing a lot of exciting work in photography and new media.

Where: The Ice Palace – 1400 North Miami Avenue
When: Thursday – Saturday: 11am -7pm
Sunday, Sunday: 11am – 5pm
$: 15, students: 10
http://www.pulse-art.com

NADA

This fair is interesting and has a unique place in contemporary art world. NADA is a not-for-profit collective of professionals working with contemporary art. It is a collaborative effort comprised of galleries and individuals (art professionals, independent curators, and established gallery directors). Nada’s mission is about making the contemporary arts more accessible for the general public, and creating opportunities that nurture the growth of emerging artists, curators, and galleries. Nada will show new and underexposed art that is not typical of the “art establishment”.

Where: The Deauville Beach Resort, 6701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141
When: Thursday – Saturday: 11 – 8pm
, Sunday: 11am – 5pm
$: Free!
http://www.newartdealers.org

Seven

Seven is a collective project organized by seven different galleries. This fair is now in its second year. Seven feels more like a well-curated cohesive exhibition than it does a showcase, moving it away from the typical “fair” platform. Be sure to check this one out, it will be a refreshing take.

Where: 2637 N Miami Ave (at NE 27th Street), Miami FL
When: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am – 7pm, Sunday: 11am – 5pm
$: Free!

http://www.seven-miami.com/

Fountain

Much like Seven, fountain also has the feel of a collaborative exhibition. Fountain is the bad boy of the art fairs focusing on the obscure and the Avant Guard. You will see a lot of street art, risqué performative art, and alternative installation art. Last year Shepard Fairey dj’d at fountain opening while a bunch of civilians jumped on and beat up a car covered in graffiti, I can only imagine what the rebels will be doing this year. Whatever it is, I’m sure it will be awesome.

Where: 2505 N Miami Ave at the corner of 25th Street, Miami, FL
When: Wednesday – Sunday: 12pm- 7pm
$: 10

http://www.fountainartfair.com/

More satellite fairs – The Hotel Fairs

These fairs are unique because they feature young artists and galleries that are in their early to mid career. The showcases mostly exist in hotel rooms. Beds are moved out and the room becomes a small gallery. These are some of the more accessible fairs where you will have a more likely chance of making connections. Most of the artists and allergists involved tend to stay in their space and are open for conversation. There is generally a more relaxed feel at these fairs.

Aqua

Aqua started in 2005 in an attempt to bring some of the US west coast galleries and dealers to art Basel Miami. It quickly became really successful and is in my opinion one of the funnest fairs. It takes place in the aqua hotel with different galleries and dealers set up in each of the hotel rooms. The environment is laid back with the indoor/outdoor set up of the hotel and there’s usually a bar outside so you can enjoy a drink while looking.

Where: the aqua hotel1530 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
When: Thursday -
Saturday: 11am – 8pm, Sunday: 11am-4pm
$: 10
http://www.aquaartmiami.com

Art Now

Art Now fair is a curated show with high standards showing contemporary art from 35 international galleries. This year Art now will showcase two different curated shows featuring over 50 artists.

Where: The Catalina hotel – 1732 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
When: Thursday: 11 – 10pm, 
Friday-Saturday: 11am – 8pm, Sunday: 11am – 6pm
$: Free!
www.artnowfair.com

Verge

Verge is in its 3rd year and focuses on new, fresh work by young artists that are in their early career.

Where: The Greenview Hotel, 1671 Washington Ave @ 17th St, Miami Beach, FL
When: Thursday – Saturday: 12pm – 10pm, 
Sunday: Noon – 6pm
$: 10
http://www.vergeartfair.com/

Other events

Inner space, the secret of the unknown by FriendsWithYou

The collaborative group FriendsWithYou will be having their own exhibition during art Basel. FriendsWithYou is known for their magical, whimsical art and installations in public spaces. I’m sure they won’t disappoint.

Where: 3930 NE 2nd Ave Suite 202 Miami FL 33137
When: Dec. 1st – Jan 28th: 11am – 7pm
$: No information provided, free?
http://www.friendswithyou.com/blog/inner-space-the-secrets-of-the-unknown

Art Video: Public Screenings in SoundScape Park

Each night during art Basel, art films selected by David Gryn, director of London’s Artprojx, will be screened on açade of the Frank Gehry-designed New World Centers 7,000-square-foot outdoor projection wall. This is new this year, and sounds pretty awesome.

Where: SoundScape Park, Washington Avenue and 17th Street
When: Wednesday – Saturday: screenings at 8 and 9 p.m.
$: Free!

Let’s PARTY!

The high volume of parties in Miami during this weekend is pretty ridiculous. A lot of them are private/ VIP, or $200 to get in. Here are some of the more affordable and accessible parties. You’ll hear about a lot more by word of mouth. You can also try to sneak into some of the private parties, just look important.

Nightdrive and Stüssy’s Art Basel Kickoff

With Geneva Jacuzzi, Pollyn, Selebrities, and others. Ages 21 and up. Kick off your weekend with some drinks, live music, and dancing. Get crazy.
Where: Mamushka’s Midtown, 31 NW 36th St., Miami; 786-991-3823
When: Thursday – 11pm

Yelle

If you don’t know who Yelle is, we have no business telling you.
Where: The Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL
When: Friday – 9pm
http://fillmoremb.com/event/0D00473AB17573BC

Twin Shadow

Things are about to get trippy, hang out with twin shadow and lose yourself in the magic. This is part of the Absolut Vodka Cocktails Perfected Friday. No cover.
Where: NE 27th St. and NE Second Ave., Miami.
When: Friday – 8pm

Fab 5 Freddy and Ninjasonik

Part of Fountain Art Fair’s opening night, presented by Artlog. It’s time to get your hip-hop on.
Where: Fountain Art Fair – 2505 N. Miami Ave.
When: Friday – 7pm

Tips:

Go ahead and prepare yourself for almost no sleep, suck it up, see as much as you can.

Stock up on cliff bars, you won’t have much time for real food. It’s also expensive in these parts.

Don’t try to stare at a piece of art for too long, you’ll miss a lot.

Talk to people, you never know who you’re going to meet (collectors, curators, artists, gallerists, celebrities, eclectic weirdoes, random rich people)

Parking will be a huge pain in the ass, try to park it in one place for the whole day and then shuttle and walk around. Look out for tow away zones.

Best Advice: Construct a loose plan of action, Then forget about it and use your gut.

This guide was prepared by Heather Comparetto