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1/15/2019 0 Comments

TRENDING TUESDAY | MICHAEL JACKSON: ON THE WALL

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As one of the most recognized people who has ever lived, Michael Jackson has had a lifetime of visuals dedicated to him. His image as a musician spanned the globe, but it also made him a prominent figure in choreography, fashion, and as a social advocate. His significance within the visual art world has become a lesser known exploration.  However, a new worldwide showcase that began at the National Portrait Gallery in London focuses on this very idea.  Unlike other pop-star exhibitions however, Michael Jackson: On The Wall not only presents the numerous examples of visual art dedicated to the star, but explores the entire nature of his fame, his worldwide influence, and the long lasting effects of his existence in culture today.

The exhibition features work of forty-eight prominent artists from all over the world, including Faith Ringgold, Kehinde Wiley, Keith Haring, Hank Willis Thomas, and specifically Andy Warhol. It explores themes such as portraiture of the iconic man, imitative fan artwork that resonate heavily with "hero worship", and universal acknowledgement and fame. In a world where even in death, content can be consumed, Jackson's figure, among multi levels of media, offers a complicated and versatile view of the man himself. Taken from the perspective as observer, in both fandom and not, the exhibition attempts to construct a comprehensive viewpoint of the man. Some work was made during his life, while others were created specifically for this show. However, no one artist is featured more than Andy Warhol. A self-obsessed fan of Michael Jackson, Warhol's images of the man are given an entire room
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Kehinde Wiley, Portrait of Michael Jackson, 2010. Courtesy of CBS News.
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Andy Warhol, Michael Jackson, 1984. Courtesy of National Portrait Gallery.
Although the subject remains the same, the artists' choice of perspective, material, and focus reveals just how complicated this man's image is within our greater society. He is recognized for so many things, that harnessing him from all angles becomes a requirement. In doing so, the artists celebrate Jackson, but also relatively discuss negative aspects of his career, the gossip that fuels any pop culture figure to their death, notably his sexual assault charges. This noteworthy aspect of his life obviously resonates heavily with the modern day #MeToo campaigns and subtly parallels the other questions that fuel this exhibition. Do accolades remembered in death overshadow actions in life? As such a complicated figure of popular culture, Michael Jackson will always be remembered for his influence and innovation of music internationally, but his veritable status was rife with trauma, scandal, and untold rumors.

This exhibition's aim in exploring the multifaceted man successfully engages his image from an international perspective, only further validating his worldwide fame and influence. This versatile showcase is now currently at the Grand Palais in France, but will be moving to Bundeskunsthalle in Germany and finally to Espoo Museum of Modern Art in Finland.

Title Image: Gary Hume, Michael, 2011. Courtesy of Spruth Magers and Matthew Marks.
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Faith Ringgold, Who's Bad, 1998. Courtesy of ACA Galleries.
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David LaChapelle, An Illuminating Path, 1998. Courtesy of National Portrait Gallery.
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12/31/2018 0 Comments

EXPLORE THIS MONTH | JANUARY

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Welcome to the New Year! 2018 was full of innovative, engaging, and thoughtful exhibitions and with so many new shows to see, we have rounded up a quick look at some of our favorites for the upcoming 2019.
1) The Art Students League of New York | Des Moines Art Center
Established in 1875, the Art Students League of New York is an open-enrollment, affordable art school that has provided education to thousands of students. Offering classes in painting, drawing, sculpture, and printmaking, the League became an economic alternative to the competitive and expensive standard art school experience. Since its foundation in New York in 1892, the League has seen many renowned artists including Louise Nevelson, Jacob Lawrence, Milton Avery, and Isabel Bishop, making it highly reputable as an institution. Featuring drawings and prints from the League's permanent collection, this exhibition showcases student work from the last 80 years.
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Will Barnet, Woman and the Sea, 1973. Courtesy of Des Moines Art Center.
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Scowen & Co., Kandian Chief, 1870. Courtesy of Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
2) The Jeweled Isle: Art From Sri Lanka | Los Angeles County Museum of Art
In this expansive survey, and the first American museum to do so, this exhibition covers two thousand years of Sri Lankan art. With over 240 works of art including decorative objects, photographs, textiles, and paintings, the exhibition constructs a comprehensive view of history and culture. These artworks and objects reflect the centuries of European influence and colonialism, as well as the diverse distinction of this unique South Asian nation. This survey also offers documentation of rare Buddhist imagery through photographs, textiles, and ivory objects. Rarely displayed items from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, this collection showcases one of the largest selections of Sri Lankan art in the United States.
3) Cecily Brown: Where, When, How Often and With Whom | Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Denmark
Considered to be a leading painter at the turn of the century, Cecily Brown has spent the past twenty years inspired by such artists as Francis Bacon, Willem De Kooning, Philip Guston, and Joan Mitchell. These expressive inspirations can be seen in her complex, large-scale works that resonate Abstract Expressionism at its core. At once chaotic and harmonious, Brown observes the genre with a classic, yet modern perspective. Drawn from moments in contemporary culture, Brown explores the human condition and sexuality within the modern world. With a vibrant brushstroke and an improvisational quality, these works successfully convey an emotional mindfield that remains relentlessly relevant.
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Cecily Brown, Courtesy of Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
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Judy Chicago, Sunset Squares, 1965/2018. Courtesy of Institute of Contemporary Art Miami.
4) Judy Chicago: A Reckoning | Institute of Contemporary Art Miami
Well known for her feminist ideal, Chicago has created countless projects and pieces that discuss women within an art historical reference. From her landmark installation, The Dinner Party (1974 - 79), an imagined dinner table set for 39 female icons to the legendary Womanhouse, Chicago remains a pioneer of feminist practice. Over the past decades, Chicago has continued to push the limits on institutional sexism, gender roles, and labor within stereotypes. This major survey of her work highlights her great works, but focuses specifically on her iconic shift between abstraction and figuration. Through visual tools, such as iconography (the study of symbols in art), Chicago maintains her original, enlightening conversation with a different, yet equally prolific dialogue.
5) Lucio Fontana: On the Threshold | Met Breuer
This major retrospective of the Argentine-Italian artist will reexamine one of the most innovative painters of the 20th century. Based in Italy during World War II, Fontana became well known for constructing his Cut series; slashed paintings in which he physically cut his canvas to represent the extreme violence he was experiencing during wartime. This direct visualization resonated with viewers worldwide in the postwar era and became a staple of his work. In doing so, he subsequently questioned two-dimensional painting altogether and explored space in a rare and innovative way. This survey of his work showcases his famous Cut series, as well as his sculptural work in which his further examined space, both within the work and for the viewer.
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Lucio Fontana, Concetto Spaziale Attese, 1967. Courtesy of Christies.
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12/7/2018 0 Comments

FRESH FRIDAY | THE NEW ROCOCO

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Rococo appeared in Paris, during the reign of Louis VX in the18th century.  The unique style was characterized by its ornate and decorative quality, curving and complex designs, and fixation on modeling natural elements. Seen in architecture, sculpture, painting, and interiors, rococo was meant to produce awe and impress at first sight. Mediums frequently used were various colored, rare woods, porcelain, and gilded bronze. With a distinct digression from previous styles, Rococo artisans created objects and spaces with the wild elements of nature in mind. Frequently, there were brighter colors, greater detailing, and boastful displays of wealth. Rococo was an expression of the flamboyancy and playfulness that was prominent during Louis XV's reign, and equally the grandeur that was so infamously associated with his decline and the rise of the Enlightenment.

The Morsbroich Castle was built during the height of the period's popularity and is currently home to the Morsbroich Castle Municipal Museum that features international modern and contemporary art including their newest exhibition, The Flexible Plan. This group show examines the survival of Rococo through contemporary art. The title refers to Rococo's break from the consistency of the Baroque, a previous, predominant art style. As the castle itself is a pinnacle example of the Rococo style, it provides a rich backdrop for the selection of works.  Through painting and sculpture, these artists have explored the core fundamentals of the movement and have produced work that mirrors the vibrant and decorative elements of the original style.

Rococo remains a staple style for tourist visits throughout Europe, specifically in France at Versailles and the Louvre, however contemporary examples of the ornamental designs are more rarely seen. With a rich, historical context and an outstanding backdrop, The Flexible Plan offers a comprehensive experience that beautifully intertwines the old and the new.
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Facade of Morsbroich Castle, Germany.
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Glenn Brown, The Life Hereafter, 2011. Courtesy of Morsbroich Museum.
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Glenn Brown, The Shallow End, 2011. Courtesy of Morsbroich Museum.
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12/4/2018 0 Comments

THE GIFT GUIDE | 2018

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#1: Art Oracles: Creative  & Life Inspiration from Great Artists
Great for your family or friend who believes in an artistic intervention! Whether it be struggling with a life decision or a necessary daily mantra, pick a card and find out what Picasso, Pollock, Kahlo and other masterful artists would suggest.
#2: BlockHaus Blocks
For the kid who needs a new flair from their old blocks. These blocks based off the famous German style are the perfect update and addition for any little future architect.
#3: Mondri Vase
For a chic accent to any home decor, this vase based off of Piet Mondrian's famed primary color paintings, can be displayed in a variety of ways with three separate openings.
#4: 100 Secrets of the Art World: Everything You Always Wanted to Know from Artists, Collectors and Curators, but Were Afraid to Ask
What is regarded as the most confidential information professionals throughout the art world don't readily share? This paperback contains stories and advice from renowned artists, museum directors, gallerists, collectors, and more.
#5: Story of Impressionism 1000-Piece Puzzle
Got a puzzler in the family? Try this challenging and informative puzzle perfect for any art fanatic/puzzle aficionado.
#6: Manifesto!: The Art Movements Game
In this riveting game that tests your knowledge of art movements and its artists. Compete to gather all the artists within that movement to win the game!
#7: Paint By Sticker Masterpieces

A new flair in the adult coloring book craze! Use high quality stickers to create 12 iconic masterpieces.
#8: The LEGO Architect
For your aspiring architect, this hardcover book journeys through the history of architecture, all seen through LEGO design. It also includes 12 model directions to snap together your own iconic buildings!
#9: Modern Artists Notebook
The perfect blank notebook for any aspiring artist or writer to fill with ideas and sketches!
#10: Frida Kahlo Ceramic Mug
Give the gift of a warm beverage for your favorite Frida Kahlo fan and enjoy a little art inspiration with this reusable travel mug.

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11/27/2018 0 Comments

TRENDING TUESDAY | HEALING AFTER GUN VIOLENCE

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The response to the United States' continued battle with gun violence has been anger, sadness, and a consistent call for action from lawmakers. Progress is slow and restrictions remain relatively unchanged. While policymakers debate solutions, gun violence has remained a leading killer throughout the country. Among the activists are families and friends who suffer long after mass media moves to the next tragedy. With little to do but continue to demand change, a recent public art proposal offered another course of action.

The cities of Coral Springs and Parkland, Florida responded to the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge with a project proposal entitled "Inspiring Community Healing After Gun Violence: The Power of Art". The project will utilize the community to collectively create five public art installations that will be placed throughout both cities on the first anniversary of the shooting, February 14th. The project was initially inspired by the Coral Springs Museum of Arts "Healing with Art" program, which was immediately established following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas school shooting to address trauma experienced by community members. Although the artwork itself is still unknown, the community advisory committee selected five artists to participate including Kate Gilmore, David Best, Carl Juste, Steven and William Ladd, and R&R Studios.

Title image: Michael Bloomberg in Coral Springs, Credit by Sharon Aron Baron
Bloomberg Philanthropies began its Public Art Challenge in 2014 in order to advance and fund temporary public art projects that engage their cities. More than 200 cities applied with various proposals that addressed numerous social issues such as environmental sustainability, immigration, and identity. The Public Art Challenge also offers an opportunity for collaboration between municipalities and businesses, celebrates creativity and diverse identities, and supports local artists and economy. Fourteen finalists were chosen with Anchorage, Alaska as the first city to win and Coral Springs announced as the second, both awarded $1 million to complete their projects. More winners will be announced in the upcoming weeks. Founder of the nonprofit, Michael Bloomberg is also chairman for Everytown for Gun Safety and stated that the proposal "was a powerful example of ways public art can bring communities together and draw attention to important issues".

In the following months, the cities will host workshops, discussions, and artist talks throughout surrounding communities in order to develop the art installations. With a supportive art therapy program in place, the project aims to offer solace for families who have lost loved ones, but also inspire the prevention of future tragedies through discussion and art.
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