Reality Television and Art School collide

When I was studying fine art at the University of Washington (Proud Alum 2005) I always joked that the personal torture that was the dynamics of 65 people competing for 16 slots then competing against one another for being the smartest, most talents, most avaunt guard or whatever was the making of a reality television show. (Love triangles and backstabbing included). I loved the experience: I am an expert problem solver, can research anything including physics of black holes, representation of females/ by females, can make rather than buy many things (lumber poodle, no joke) and have endured years of critiques to make me acutely self-aware/self-deprecating. I think everyone should have to do a year of art school, really!

And I don't know how I missed this in July- but here it is, art reality shows. Do I think this will benefit art- quality or appreciation? No. I think this will reinforce already negative stereotypes of artists. Do I want more people to see how artists work, not just the Damien Hursts or Andy Warhols but the Kiki Smiths and Uta Barths. I want the practice of art to be more accessible to more, I think Reality Television may hurt the cause.

What do you think?

NYTimes article is it about theater or entertainment?

Seattle made the NYTimes spotlight as a "Permanent Theater Festival" in this weeks Escapes section. I view Seattle as a Theater town, I serve on the board of a great local theater. There are many opportunities to see great art here, and it does sway towards performance. One of my reason's for staying in Seattle is the access to the arts.

What concerns me about this article is that it is mostly about entertainment and large venues- when the richness of arts really comes from small companies. When I think of Seattle arts- it is rarely Teatro Zinzani it is the small neighborhood venues and public works supported by the city and county. Also- we have an amazing Ballet and Opera across the street from Teatro. What do you think?

Tips for artists and organizations to survive the recession

Artist's Magazine has a great article on how to survive the current economic downturn.

Fellow artists and gallery owners share 12 tips for holding your ground during a recession.

Fine art isn’t always easy to sell even when the economy is good. Now with this latest economic downturn, artists everywhere are commiserating about how to ramp up their marketing mojo to help them survive. In some ways it’s not all bad. Crisis is often an opportunity in disguise, challenging artists to focus their energies and to keep at least one eye on the big picture.

(Full disclaimer, the author is my very talented Mother)
Find the entire article here.

Henry may be onto something

The Henry Art Gallery, a part of the pristine University of Washington campus has (as deduced from my not-so-scientific research) utilized the Internets in some pretty impressive ways, my most recent indulgence is Henry on YouTube, they have some ok videos and some pretty cool ones, and most importantly they are keeping it up to date. Check out the whole site here. Keep it up Henry!