Liz Hearts Art

UPDATE

2009-05-09T08:29:00.002-04:00

I sincerely apologize for not updating my blog recently. I am currently committed to a number of volunteer opportunities that take up the majority of my time. I promise I will come back in full force as soon as I find the time to create valuable posts. I want to sincerely thank everyone for their ongoing support!

Miller Gallery is BEAUTIFUL

2009-04-07T17:53:00.004-04:00

(above: Pink Still Life by Pang Jen)

B E A U T Y

Miller Gallery
Opening Reception Friday April 10, 6-8 pm
Show continues through April 24

Forget deep, symbolic and melancholy art and celebrate all things superficially beautiful this Friday at Miller Gallery. Times are tough and perhaps we could all spend a Friday night with some colorful, uplifting and unabashedly beautiful art. Artists include "Don Hatfield, renowned for his timeless, classic impressionist paintings of mothers and children, frolicking on beaches, sharing loving moments in the loveliness of blooming gardens; Colin Berry, whose contemplative, measured and meticulous paintings often combine landscape and still life, are serenely classical and quietly poetic; Ellen Diamond, whose eye for pattern and color are reflected in her vibrant and vivid depictions of the French and Italian countryside, seascapes and village scenes; Pang Jen, for many years a gallery favorite, whose loose impressionist figurative and landscape paintings are exercises in soft, harmonious color; and popular local artist Ron Johnson, well-known for his paintings of Cincinnati scenes and landmarks as well as captured memories of European travel. "

Red Tree Turns Over a New Leaf

2009-04-06T21:01:00.003-04:00

RedTree Art Opening

Friday, April 10, 6-10 pm

Red Tree Gallery (3210 Madison Rd.)

As if Red Tree could be even more fabulous... this weekend marks the debut of their first show at their new Madison Road location. As per usual, there will be wine and live music. Featured local artists include Teressa Barnhill, Scott Dannenfelser, Diane Debevec, Maureen Holub and Dick Macke. I have yet to check out their new spot, but the street front location should definitely put them in the spotlight.

Lobsters Are Surreal

2009-03-31T18:36:00.006-04:00

("Lobster Dress" by Elsa Schiaparelli with images by Salvador Dali)

Surrealism and Fashion

Wednesday, March 31, 7 pm

Cincinnati Art Museum

$10 non-members, $5 members

"Because fashion design can be outrageous and Surrealism is a flamboyant art style, it is not surprising that Surrealist artists and trend-setting fashion designers often share a similar love of extravagance" (New York Times, 1988). It is, indeed, only natural that two artistic cliques renown for their intentional outrageousness would collaborate. The most infamous of all surrealist fashionistas was Elsa Shiaparelli, whose work is still studied by art historians and design design majors alike. The Chief Curator of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology Valerie Steele will be on hand to provide more insight into all things surreal and fashionable.

Cincinnati's Fabulous Future

2009-03-23T20:27:00.005-04:00

(above: "The Money Spender and His Wife" by Tim Parsley)

Narrative Figuration

Opening Reception Friday, March 27th, 5:30-9 pm

Showing March 27- May 1

Henry James called Frank Duveneck "the unsuspected genius." Perhaps a man hailing from nineteenth century Covington, Ky was was not suspected to be either an artist or a genius. Duveneck was both. He attracted a huge following, known as the "Duveneck Boys," which included Twatchman and Herman Wessel (among others). One of his most famous works, The Whistling Boy (1872) is permanently on display at the CAM.

In Covington, Sandra Small's gallery is exhibiting artists who they believe comprise a new Cincinnati School of Painting. Some of them champion Classical Realism, a style that celebrates the beauty of the past and exhibits a realism inspired by photography while others are more "painterly and expressive." This "golden age" is inspired by Vermeer, VanDyck, Rembrandt, Giacometti, Freud, Bacon, Kitaj and, appropriately, Duveneck. Many of these artists are also recent graduates of UC's MFA program, which almost ensures that works will be both fresh and accomplished.

It is also certainly worth noting that exhibiting artist Emil Robinson will have a personal show at the Keystone Gallery at the Taft Museum on August 30.

Matrimony As a Rite of Disaster

2009-03-16T14:10:00.005-04:00

(above: Mother-In-Law by Brad Smith)

Not In My Wedding Album

March 20-May 9, 2009

Opening Reception March 20, 5-9 pm

Prairie Gallery

The beauty of art is that it is sometimes unsightly. Photographs especially sometimes have a way of capturing the moments in life we'd rather forget. At one time or another we've all been victims of the "please don't post that on your Webshots/Facebook profile/ frame it on your mantle" photograph.

A wedding is a perfect opportunity for any photographer to capture such images. Although the bride and groom typically assemble an album of flawless wedding day pictures, most weddings do not go off "without a hitch." That is what makes this show at Prairie so entertaining.

I think the premise of this show is both light-hearted and brilliant. It shows that even the most sacred and beautiful of human institutions can be chaotic and and imperfect. The overall message of the show is, perhaps, that we should stop taking ourselves so darn seriously.

Speaking Primarily About Installation

2009-03-16T13:21:00.006-04:00

(above: Robert Iriwn's Primaries and Secondaries at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego)

Contemporary Conversations
Thursday, March 19, 6-8 pm
Contemporary Arts Center
Free for members, $7.50 adults, $5.50 students

It seems antithetical to the 1960s contemporary ideal that an artist exploring light and space could be avant-guarde. L.A.-based artist Robert Irwin proved, however, that not everything had to be so dour. Through his now-iconic installations, Irwin expertly explored light and space as the basis of human perception.

In his book "Seeing Is Forgetting the Name of the Thing One Sees," Lawrence Weschler recorded the conversations he had with Irwin and described the transient and awe-inspiring nature of his works. Because Irwin's works were transitory installations, this book is one of the few ways that contemporaries can view them.

This Thursday, local art personality Matt Morris will lead a discussion of Irwin's work as seen in Weschler's book. Although it my be too late to read the entire manuscript, I would suggest picking it up and scanning over key elements if you intend on attending the lecture. It is certainly well-written and full of insight and vivid description.

March's Hip Picks

2009-03-13T15:19:00.004-04:00

(above: image from Prairie's Happy Valley or Helltown show)

All of my favs....

Best New Discovery: Prairie Gallery

Best International Exploration: MANIFEST's Selections From India

For the Art Collector: Carl Solway's Joan Miro: Master Lithographies From 1948

For the Art Collector on a Budget: Miller Gallery's Artist Stimulus 2009

Alternative Exhibition: Semantics's my tiger, my heart: paintings and improvisations by Eric Ruschman

It's Simply SUREAL

2009-03-11T12:20:00.006-04:00

(Album 13, Plate IV, 1948 by Joan Miro)

Joan Miro: Master Lithographs From 1948
January 9-April 18
Carl Solway Gallery

Its a great time to be a Surrealist art-lover in Cincinnati. In addition to the fabulous exhibit at the CAM, Carl Soloway has a show of Joan Miro lithographs at his Findlay Street gallery. The exact same year that he painted the famous mural for the Terrace Plaza Hotel, which is currently outside the Cincinnati Art Museum's Terrace Cafe, he created 13 celestial prints. With imaginative forms and a very spirited nature, they are the epitome of all things Miro.

A Twist of Taft

2009-03-11T11:50:00.005-04:00

(Helena Bonham Carter's dress from A Room with a View is currently on display at the Taft's Fashion in Film exhibit)

Taft with a Twist: Movie Magic

Thursday March 12, 6-9 pm

Taft Museum

$10 non-members, free for members

In conjunction with their Fashion in Film exhibit, Taft will host a film trivia contest aimed to entertain local young professionals. As always, there will be a cash bar, hors d'oeuvres and a chance to mingle with other young art aficionados. Think of this as a much better alternative to dollar pitcher night at the local watering hole.

THINK GREEN

2009-03-11T11:11:00.005-04:00

(2007 winner of the Earth Day Art Contest sponsored by U.S. Department of State by Hanna Kutuzava of Belarus)

GREEN Spaces: Every Day is Earth Day

Visionaries and Voices at ArtWorks Gallery

March 12-April 10

Opening Reception Thursday, March 12, 5-8 pm

Although you may not have it marked on your calendar and don't necessarily plan on celebrating it, tomorrow is Earth Day. The art and design world has long-embraced the idea that creativity and conservationism can exist simultaneously. "Green design" and "sustainability" have been a focus of many artists for several generations.

The artists of Visionaries & Voices will voice their opinion on our over-consumption and the positive and negative effects that human beings have upon the environment with an opening exhibit tomorrow at Artworks Gallery. By contrasting images of idealist landscapes and over-crowded, polluted cities, V&V conveys "a dichotomy of imagery which illustrates the two extremes of modern life." I am most excited to see works made of recyclable materials and conceptual pieces concerning energy conservation.

2009-03-09T15:41:00.005-04:00

(Claire de Lune, Amy Giust)

Artist Stimulus

Preview Party Friday, March 13, 6-8 pm

Show continues through March 28

Miller Gallery

Everyone is well aware that "times are tough." We are learning to embrace that less is sometimes more and that, as the New York times so aptly put it, "small is the new big... In the design word this stuff is old news-- but in the art world its evidence of a new survivalism."

What is not necessarily as painfully obvious, however, is that this is the perfect time to scoop up reputable artists at record breaking prices. Its easy to be depressed about the state of the economy but its better to cheer yourself up with a wonderful, inexpensive piece of art. Several galleries such as Phyllis Weston-Annie Bolling and Cincinnati Art Galleries have already hosted such shows. I'm excited that Miller Gallery has also decided to jump on the bandwagon.

Improvisations of Tigers

2009-03-04T20:24:00.005-05:00

my tiger, my heart; paintings and improvisations by Eric Ruschman

Opening: Saturday, March 7, 7-10 pm

Show continues March 7-28

Semantics

The first Saturday of every month, Semantics hosts and opening for a an exciting, unconventional and innovative new artist. It is one of the longest surviving co-ops in the city and shows are anything but predictable. I implore you to support this fabulous little non-profit space. Please visit their MySpace site http://www.myspace.com/semanticsgallery for more information.

Manifestation of Mythography in India

2009-03-04T19:36:00.004-05:00

(above: a submission for the INDA by Douglas Miller)

Mythography: An Exploration of Nature

Selections of India

Reception: Friday, March 6, 6-9 pm

Show: March 6- April 3

MANIFEST

Drawing upon the long standing tradition throughout the history of art of using the visual to explain the narrative, the works in Mythography: An Exploration of Nature will tell stories and depict legends, myths and fables. This includes comic art, sequential art, documentary, animation, video/film, illustration, performance, painting, sculpture, photography, and drawing. Approximately 700 works were submitted and, through a rigorous process, 16 were selected to be displayed.

Selections From India will display works selected to be a part of Manifest's Selections from the International Drawing Annual. Manifest's drawing center is devoted to exploring and celebrating the medium of drawing in its own rite. Annually, they publish an extensive compilation of fantastic drawings titled The International Drawing Annual. Over 1100 works were submitted to be in the 2009 INDA and a ten-person jury is still deciding which pieces will be included in the final publication. Selections From India will be an early look and possible winners.

Camp Out at CAC

2009-02-27T12:20:00.003-05:00

(above: Discarded Spider (Installation View), Carlo Amorales, Courtesy of the artist and Contemporary Arts Center. Photo: Tony Walsh)

The World Below: an All-Night Horror Movie Marathon

Friday, February 27, 6:27 pm - 7:12 am (dusk to dawn)

Contemporary Arts Center

$10 members, $20 members

The CAC is inviting you to bring your sleeping bags (and your courage) for an all-night horror movie marathon. They have not released a list of the specific films, but they promise there will be "both classic and obscure horror films plus many surprises!"

CAC Contemporary Fridays

Friday, February 27, gallery levels until 9 pm, Kaplan Hall until 1 am

Contemporary Arts Center

General Admission, Cash Bar

CAC is re-joining the Friday Friday circuit with open galleries and a late night party. All galleries will be open until 9 pm and a party featuring drinks and the spins of DJ Pillo will continue until 1 am.

Its that time again...

2009-02-27T11:56:00.004-05:00

(above: "eggs on glass table" by Mayumi Terada at BASE GALLERY)

Final Friday

Friday, February 27, 6-10 pm

Over-the-Rhine, Pendleton and North Main St.

I can't ever say enough fabulous things about Final Friday. Much like New Year's Eve, it is the celebration of what has been and exudes the hope of what is to come. So whether February was the most productive and successful month of the year or whether you can't wait until March, Final Friday is a perfect event. Visit http://www.irhine.com/index.jsp?page=finalfriday for a walking map and list of participating businesses.

Another New One: Prairie Gallery

2009-02-27T11:30:00.006-05:00

(above: Voss Finn, "Figment 7")

Current Exhibition: Happy Valley or Helltown

Featuring Voss Finn and Samantha Johnson

January 23- March 13

Prairie Gallery (4035 Hamilton Ave., Northside)

Its name is meant to reflect the broad expanse of contemporary work that it will display. Whatever the media or sensibility, Prairie Gallery is meant to be an open forum. It exists in what was once an old appliance store, which is entirely appropriate for the current exhibition.

Voss Finn is an established artist who uses found objects and drawings to create sculptures and site-specific installations. Samantha Johnson, who is quite new to the scene, had the unique idea of transferring photographs onto printmaking paper and then sewing them all together to assemble collages. All together, this show emphasizes the variety of media that often inspire and transform contemporary art.

2 New @ V&V

2009-02-23T18:11:00.006-05:00

(above: from the Negative to Positive show, Antonio Adams)

Kevin White, Life on Canvas

Over-the-Rhine Chamber of Commerce

Opening February 27, 5-8 pm

February 27-March 20

Opening Reception: Friday, February 27, 5-8 pm

This weekend Visionaries & Voices, an "outsider art" gallery featuring the works of artists with disabilities, will have two major opening exhibitions. The first displays the work of Kevin White, who creates two-dimensional landscapes inspired and influenced by the existence of wild animals. The combination of intense color and complex forms form the unique harmony that is characteristic of his work.

Visit http://otrchamber.com/ for more information.

Antonio Adams and Cheryl Dunn

Country Club Gallery

February 28 - May 16, 2009

New works by Antonio Adams and Cheryl Dunn
Opening Reception, Saturday 28th 4-8pm

Antonio Adams is known both locally and nationally as an accomplished artist. His works are a complex amalgamation of well-known superheros, celebrities, personal friends, the artists himself and his alter-ego. Underneath it all, his work suggests that moral dilemmas and questionable ethics are at play. Also displayed is a triptych by Antonio Adams and Brian Joiner loosely based on Picasso's Guernica but with different characters and conflicts.

For more information visit http://countryclubgallery.com/

Talk Fashion at the Taft

2009-02-23T15:46:00.002-05:00

(above: Two-Piece Evening Dress worn by Kate Beckinsale as Maggie Verver in the film The Golden Bowl, 2000. Set early 1900s. Costumes designed by John Bright; directed by James Ivory. Silk satin with lace.)

Lecture Series: Petticoats, Pantaloons, and Painters: Three Centuries of Costume in Art

Thursday, February 26, 7 pm

The Taft Museum

As part of its Fashion in Film exhibit, the Taft will host a lecture about how fashion is always a reflection of a particular society's culture, politics, history and art. Curator of Education Nancy Huth will speak on the basic fashions for men and women of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. It is recommended that all who wish to attend make reservations and buy tickets in advance.

SawFistTree

2009-02-19T13:22:00.006-05:00

SawFistTree and friends Quartex

Opening: Feb 21, 9 PM–12 AM
Dates: Feb 21–Feb 22
Various Artists

FeralMade

Since FeralMade has not released any information about this exhibit, one can assume that it is simply a compilation of it's artists works. FeralMade seems to pride itself on being both enigmatic and playful, so this show and opening reception should be very entertaining.

Ally with Clay

2009-02-19T13:09:00.005-05:00

(above: clay piece by Steve Howell)

The Clay Alliance 10th Anniversary Show

Opening: Saturday, February 21

Show: February 21 - March 14

Kennedy Heights Art Center

Regrettably, I have not written anything about the Kennedy Heights Arts Center in a while. This weekend, however, is the opening of the Clay Alliance's 10th Anniversary Exhibition. The Clay Alliance is a group of liked-minded artists who use clay to make functional, decorative, and sculptural objects. It will feature brand new works as well as those of past talents.

Enjoy A Magic Show

2009-02-19T12:32:00.005-05:00

(above: artist Tara Donovan)

This weekend is Fine Arts Fund Sampler Weekend. The Contemporary Arts Center plays an integral part in this city's art scene and, thus, there are many notable events. Admission to all events, moreover, will be free. I regret that I am not going to include all of them on my blog, as that would take up more time and space available to me. Please check out their website, however, to get more information.

The Buzz: A Night of Magic

Friday, February 20, 7 pm

Contemporary Arts Center

$15 in advance, $20 at the door

The aforementioned event is Fine Arts Fund's way of kicking off their 2009 season. Aimed at the under 40 set, read "Y.P.'s" or "young professionals," there will be food, music, drinks, and prizes all consistent with the magic theme.

Also at the CAC this weekend

Gallery Talk: Tara Donovan

Led by CAC Director Raphaela Platow

Saturday, February 21, 3-4 pm

This gallery talk will shed some light onto the esoteric works of Tara Donovan.

44: Ethan Philbrick and Isaac Hand

Saturday, February 21, 4-7 pm

Through the dialogue of sound, Ethan Philbrick and Isaac Hand will interpret the minimalistic and transcendent works of Tara Donovan.

for more about 44 weekend at CAC, visit http://www.contemporaryartscenter.org/.

More of 44

2009-02-16T10:44:00.006-05:00

(above: the Flux Capicators)

44: the Flux Capicators

Sunday, February 22, 12:30-3:20 pm

The Contemporary Arts Center

As part of the 44 series, which features a different performing artist on the first Saturday/ Sunday of every month, the Cincinnati surf rock innovators Flux Capacitors will perform. They are a self-proclaimed, Cincinnati-based "surf rock" group, whose tunes are melodious and quite gleeful. What is surf music you ask? Well, as defined by the ever cursory Wikipedia, its "a genre of popular music associated with surf culture, particularly Orange County and other areas of Southern California." Basically, its the Beach Boys meets contemporary pop and rock music. Why are they performing at the CAC? Well, contemporary art has a long history of bridging the gap between traditional, formal and representational works and the performing arts.

Update From Sandra Small

2009-02-16T10:19:00.004-05:00

(above: watercolor by Donald Holden)

The Contemporary Sublime: Asian-Inspired Landscapes

February 13- March 20

Sandra Small Gallery

Connected by a deep appreciation of nature and a "reductionist" technique, three Asian-American landscape artists will be on display at Sandra Small's Covington gallery. Somewhat abstract in nature, these works reflect both traditional Chinese and Japanese art and contemporary sensibilities. Watercolors, paintings, and drawings by two Cincinnati artists (Frank Satogata and Valerie Shesko) and one New York-based painter (Donald Holden) are featured.

Any Random Saturday Morning

Coffee and continental breakfast

Sandra Small Gallery

It is also certainly worth noting that every Saturday morning the gallery will feature coffee, continental breakfast and inspired art conversation with fellow art aficionados.

February's Hip Picks

2009-02-16T09:52:00.004-05:00

(above: image from 2012 Cincinnati Olympic Bid)

And the award goes to...

Best New Discovery: FeralMade Gallery

Favorite Show(s): Rosemary's Babies @ Miller Gallery, Surrealism & Beyond @ CAM

Best Event: Celebration of Winter @ CAC

For the Art Scholar: Pecha Kucha Night @ CAC

For the Aspiring & Seasoned Collector: Inspiring Collectors: Works on Paper, Mixed Media Pieces, and WPA Serigraphs under $4,000 @ Phyllis Weston- Annie Bolling Gallery

Beyond the Beyond: Surrealism

2009-02-16T09:19:00.005-05:00

(above :René Magritte, Belgian, 1898-1967, Le Chateau de Pyrenees (The Castle of the Pyrenees), 1959, Oil on canvas, 200 X 145 cm, The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Gift of Harry Torczyner, New York, B85.0081, Photo © The Israel Museum, Jerusalem )

Surrealism and Beyond in the Israel Museum, Jerusalem

February 15- May 17

The Cincinnati Art Museum

Surrealism (n.): Psychic automatism in its pure state, by which one proposes to express -- verbally, by means of the written word, or in any other manner -- the actual functioning of thought. Dictated by the thought, in the absence of any control exercised by reason, exempt from any aesthetic or moral concern. (Andre Breton, Surrealist Manifesto, 1929)

I don't do drugs. I am drugs. (Salvador Dali)

For the next couple of months CAM will be the only U.S. establishment to host an extensive collection of fabulous and intriguing Dada and Surrealist works. On loan from the Dada and Surrealist Vera and Arturo Schwartz Collection of the Israeli Museum, Jerusalem, it will feature 200 + highlights in a variety of media. Featured and infamous artists include Salvador Dalí, Marcel Duchamp, Pablo Picasso, Max Ernst, René Magritte, Joan Miró, Jean (Hans) Arp, Man Ray, Kurt Schwitters, Hannah Höch and Paul Delvaux.

Cruise to Sprint to the CAM

2009-02-16T08:41:00.004-05:00

(Giulia Sprint Speciale, 1964. Alfa Romeo, engine and chassis manufacturer (1910–), Bertone, design studio and body manufacturer (1912–), Italy. Steel body with aluminum hood and trunk lid. On loan from Richard Grant, L1.200 )

Space and flight study of the 1950's/60's inspired the production of this beautiful, futuristic, limited time offer. The Spring Speciale was considered especially controversial when it first debuted in 1964. Designed by the renowned Italian Bertone studio, it was formed and finished entirely by hand.

Pecha Kucha Night?

2009-02-10T20:29:00.003-05:00

Pecha Kucha Night

Friday, February 13, 6:30-11:30 pm

Contemporary Arts Center

$15, $10 members

6:30-8- Gallery tour, cocktails

8-10- Pecha Kucha Presentations

10- Party! with drinks and DJ

I was confused by the name at first as well. Pecha Kucha (pronounced peh-chak-cha) is Japanese for the sound of conversation. Apparently, the idea was conceived by Astrid Klein and Mark Dytham (Klein Dytham architecture) as a forum for young artists to exhibit, discuss and share their accomplishments. This global phenomenon includes creative people of any discipline or experience level and Cincinnati's version will feature architects, designers, artists, writers, students, professors, scientists, and many others. The stage is open to anyone with a creative idea and everyone is invited to watch to learn.

Rosemary's Baby(ies)

2009-02-10T20:07:00.005-05:00

(Barnett, Helmut, Time on Earth, 2008)

Rosemary's Babies 2

Opening: Friday, February 13, 8 pm

Show: February 13-27

Miller Gallery

This biennial event is a compilation by gallery director Rosemary Seidner of all the best Miller Gallery has to offer. The works of well-established artists from across the country sit side by side with those of up-and-coming talents. This extensive project of entirely new works is not to be missed.

Artists exhibited include: "Terrence Payne's wit and wisdom is put into words on his outstanding, large pastel drawings; Otto Lange's bold and quirky still life's produce raised eyebrows and smiles; Jelaine Faunce’s hyper-realistic small paintings are gems to treasure; Graceann Warn's warmly-toned painted paper compositions add sculptural dimension; Shelley Laffal's fabulous large-scale figurative fantasy Teddy Bears’ Picnic must not be missed; Helmut Barnett’s abstracts take color to a new level; Susan Danko’s large-scale “landscapes” intersect reality and abstraction; Matthew Pinney paints stills from well-loved movies; and art professor Rosalyn Schwartz’s distorted interiors tease the eye--plus new works by gallery favorites."

EVOKE II

2009-02-09T14:45:00.004-05:00

Evoke II

Saturday, Friday 7, 6-9 pm

Red Tree Gallery

evoke [i-voke] (verb): to create anew, especially by means of interpretation

This Friday will be the second annual local juried exhibition of works inspired by the word "evoke." Local artists were free to interpret and create works that reflected, recognized or celebrated this word. Join the jury in exploring these works at the fabulous Red Tree Cafe.

Celebrate Winter @ CAC

2009-02-03T14:47:00.007-05:00

Opening Celebration of the Winter Season

Friday, February 6

6 pm: cocktails with artists Tara Donovan and Donald Sultan, CAC members only
6:30 pm: gallery talk and book signing with Donald Sultan and exhibition preview, members only
8-11 pm, opening party with DJ and cash bar, open to public
exhibition open February 4- May 3

Contemporary Arts Center

Join the CAC in the celebration of its winter season, featuring artists Donald Sultan and Tara Donovan, along with music by DJ Iceberg and a cash bar. On the lower 2 level, conceptual and figurative artist Donald Sultan's works creates icons out of everyday silhouettes and reinvent the traditional landscape through the exploration of media and surface texture. This is the first exhibition in the US of Sultan's early linoleum paintings.

On levels 4 & 5 artist Tara Donovan uses mass produced, commercial items to create sculptural masterpieces. Think styrofoam cups, straws, buttons, and tape transformed into overpowering works of volume and depth. As the CAC website says, "Her body of work fuses object, architecture and lighting into elegant compositions that defy the expectation of light and spaces."

Winter's Meat with Pete

2009-02-03T14:34:00.005-05:00

44: Pete Fosco with A Winter's Meat Petal

Saturday, February 7, 4-5:30 pm

Contemporary Arts Center

FREE

The CAC's 44 program is an innovative and exciting downtown Cincinnati phenomenon that is not to be missed. On the first Saturday of every month they will host a performing artist who will open up dialogue to bring Cincinnati art enthusiasts together and to integrate local art into both a national and international context. This Saturday Pete Fosco "combines his haunting guitar tapestries with the freak-folk deconstruction of A Winter's Meat Petal" and poet and performer Mike Freeman "interjects his art of word into the mix also."

Artist Group @ Essex Studios

2009-02-02T15:22:00.003-05:00

Essex Art Opening

Friday, February 6 & Saturday February 7, 6-11 pm

Essex Studios Artist Group

Essex Studio Artist Group (ESAG) is comprised of the 100+ tenants of the 100+ individual art studios at Essex Studios. Its a non-profit group who rent out what was once a warehouse host openings/ gallery walks every few months. This is a diverse and interesting non-profit group of talented visual and preforming artists existing in a cool urban setting. They don't get a lot of press but are certainly worth examining more closely.

Cheap Chic

2009-02-02T15:09:00.004-05:00

Inspiring Collectors: Works on Paper, Mixed Media Pieces, and WPA Serigraphs under $4,000

Opening Reception: Friday, February 6, 5-8 pm

Phyllis Weston-Annie Bolling Gallery

This show is a must for both aspiring and seasoned art collectors. Enjoy a glass of wine while taking in works of various media from both up and coming and established artists. Names you may recognize include Frank McElwain, Harry Shokler, David Miretsky, Melissa Harshman, Michael Scheurer and Kris Cummings. This is one of my all-time favorite Cincinnati galleries and shows never disappoint.

ONE and BLUE

2009-02-02T14:51:00.004-05:00

(above: Abstraction by Fred Lewy, 1948.)

ONE: Azure

Wednesday, February 4, 5:30-9 pm

Cincinnati Art Museum

The CAM has somewhat revamped their traditional One World Wednesdays. Although they are now called "One," they still promise music, food, gallery tours, wine tastings, and art activities. This particular installment is focused on all things pertaining to the color blue. This is a great opportunity to spice up a boring February week.

Textiles as Art

2009-02-02T14:39:00.003-05:00

(above: Dance of Hope By Cythia Lockhart)

Textural Expressions: Fabric Art

January 16-April 3, 2009

YWCA

Appropriately, the YWCA is exploring the traditionally and stereotypically feminine media of quilt making, doll making and other stitched works in the 21st century. Examining art history from a feminist perspective, it is easy to see that historically such types of expression were not classified as "fine art." The boundary between art and craft is dissolving in contemporary pluralistic art culture, however, and this show proves that such media should be considered important and relevant. The two particular artists examined, Patricia Coleman-Cobb and Cynthia Lockhart are talented, innovative and certainly worth examining.

Workout @ FERALMADE

2009-01-29T11:31:00.004-05:00

Weird Workout

Friday, January 30, 7:30-12 pm

FERALMADE (4573 Hamilton Avenue)

I just recently learned about FERALMADE and I have to say I'm definitely intrigued. It is simultaneously an art gallery, literary magazine and printshop. It was started by Cincinnati natives with varying credentials (film makers, artists, photographers, etc.) This Friday they are celebrating the release of the 4th volume of their magazine Milk Money with a party at their gallery featuring various artists.

Their website: http://www.feralmade.com/

Milk Money site: http://www.milkmoneymag.com/index.html

Last Chance for Semantics

2009-01-27T10:51:00.008-05:00

(above: Letter 200 by Heather Calcagno)

"100%: A Year in Happiness"

Work by Heather Calcagno

January 3-31

Semantics (1107 Harrison Ave.)

This weekend is also your last chance to check out the aforementioned exhibit at Semantics, one of the longest "co-operative" and "alternative exhibition spaces" in the city. The gallery is open Saturdays from 12-4 and by appointment.

Check out http://www.myspace.com/semanticsgallery

and Calcagno's personal site http://www.hcalcagno.com/

Take a Walk at Final Friday

2009-01-27T10:21:00.005-05:00

Final Friday

Friday, January 30, 6-10 pm

North Main and Pendelton

Free

As per usual, the last Friday of every month there is a Final Friday gallery walk downtown in historic Pendelton and north Main Street. Soak in art, vintage and modern furniture, and design displays while enjoying cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at all of these fabulous urban establishments. Check out http://www.irhine.com/index.jsp?page=finalfriday for a printable map and more information.

A Fashion Frenzy

2009-01-26T11:15:00.003-05:00

(above: Two-Piece Dress worn by Swoosie Kurtz as Madame de Volanges in the film Dangerous Liaisons, 1988.Set about 1760. Costumes designed by James Acheson; directed by Stephen Frears. Printed silk, trimmed with metallic lace braid, silk flowers, and lace. Petticoat and stomacher of shot silk. )

Fashion in Film: Period Costumes for the Screen

January 31-April 26

The Taft Museum

Free for members, $12 for adults, $10 for students & seniors, $4 children

It seems that the fashion as art concept has taken off in Cincinnati lately. This is perhaps indicative of contemporary art culture over all, in which the boundaries between film, performance, and traditional art media are continually being blurred. Lately, there has been The Future of Fashion Photography Exhibit at Sandra Small, the Disrobing the Victorian Lady lecture at the CAM, and now there will be a Fashion in Film exhibit at the Taft. Although the fashion as fine art is certainly not a new idea, it is fun to compare the different ways in which all of theses shows explore this concept.

This Saturday the Taft will open the national exhibit "Fashion in Film" to the public. Inspired in part by Oscar season, the show displays four decades of film costume. The show is also meant to emphasize the way in which famous period films, such as Titanic, worked to created historically accurate costumes.

CAM's Seperate Sphere

2009-01-26T10:22:00.004-05:00

(above: a dress designed by Charles Frederick Worth for Elizabeth of Austria, Franz Xavier Winterhalter, 1865)

Disrobing the Victorian Lady

12:00-1:00 pm, lecture in the Great Hall

1:00-2:00 pm, lunch at the Terrace Cafe

$20 for lecture and lunch ($18 for Women's Committee members)

$10 for lecture

Cincinnati Art Museum

If you were dismayed that you missed the CAM's "A Separate Sphere" exhibit in 2005/2006, you will be excited to learn that they are hosting a lecture about Victorian fashion this afternoon. Fashion Arts and Textiles Curator Cynthia Amneus will speak about the elaborate and fussy fashions of this era. As this was time of great sexual repression, dresses at this time also had to follow strict cultural conventions. If you have the day off it would be an excellent opportunity to learn about the unique fashions of this era (haute couture was started by Charles Frederick Worth at this time) and enjoy a fabulous lunch at the Terrace Cafe.

Visionary Exploration of Matisse & Picasso

2009-01-26T09:08:00.000-05:00

Matisse/ Picasso: A Visionary Exploration

The Cincinnati Art Museum

January 29-April 16

Visionaries & Voices is an organization devoted to representing artists with disabilities. This upcoming show is to feature works inspired by the famous artists Matisse and Picasso. As general admission to the CAM is free, this show would certainly be worth checking out.

Through the Looking Glass at Manifest

2009-01-23T11:05:00.003-05:00

"Tama Hochbaum: Looking Through the Glass"

Opening: Friday, January 23, 6-9 pm.

Show: January 23-February 20

MANIFEST (2727 Woodburn Ave)

As Manifest never disappoints, I am sure that this show will be both insightful and innovative. Hochbaum has assembled a series of digital prints of architecture and landscape viewed through a window. As the show description suggests, the premise is perhaps a metaphor for the way the artist views the visual world around him. Be sure to visit the show yourself to draw your own personal conclusions. Visit http://www.manifestgallery.org/index.html for more information about this incredible gallery.

Positively Aging Well

2009-01-23T10:55:00.003-05:00

"Positively Ninety"
Opening: Saturday January 24, 6-9 pm.
Show: January 24-March 14
Kennedy Heights Art Center

Perhaps we are all scared, at least subconsciously, about what will happen as we age. After witnessing her mother's dementia, Connie Springer sought to answer this question. So she spoke to several "nonagenarians" of the "Positively 90" generation and learned that people do, in fact, live well and prosper well into their nineties. Her show consists of the collected photographs and narratives from her research.

Simply Speaking About Live Music

2009-01-23T10:27:00.004-05:00

Red Tree Art Gallery & Coffee Shop

Live Music- Singer/ Songwriter Scott Metcalf

Friday, January 23, 7:30-9:30 pm

Simply Speaking

January 5- February 7

Unfortunately the opening reception for the Simply Speaking show, featuring works by Joel Blazer, Camille Cier, Jessica Wolf, Jessica Roller, and Arynn Blazer, has already come and gone. The show is still on display though and I would highly recommend checking it out. Since they have live music this evening, it would be the perfect time to do so. As always, there is no cover charge and so it would be easy to pop in and enjoy some music while enjoying some coffee/tea and basking in the wonderfully chill ambiance.

If you can't make it tonight, I highly recommend venturing to Red Tree on a boring Saturday/ Sunday afternoon. It's free, there is always incredible work displayed and it is important to support cool local coffee shops. Visit http://www.redtreegallery.net/.

January's Hip Picks

2009-01-20T16:56:00.004-05:00

(Genetta McLean, Bartlet II at Eisele Gallery of Fine Art)

For Art Investors: Cincinnati Art Galleries' "Panorama of Cincinnati Art XXIII"

Best Theme Event: Cincinnati Art Museum's "Art Through Five Glasses: The Jazz Age"

Best Gallery Show: "The Future of Fashion Photography" at Sandra Small Gallery

Best Weekday Event: Historical/Horror Film Series at CAC

Gallery You Should Visit ASAP: Eisele Gallery of Fine Art

Own a Piece of the Panorama of Cincinnati Art

2009-01-20T16:18:00.004-05:00

(Paul Chidlaw, Landscape Listeners, 1900-1989)
Cincinnati Art Galleries
Panorama of Cincinnati Art XXIII
Currently Open

Although the benefit event is already over, many of the pieces are still up for sale. The show exhibits both a great deal of mastery and a "panorama" of work that is stylistically dissimilar. Artists represented include Paul Chidlaw, Frank Duveneck, Charles Salis Kaelin, and Edward Henry Potthast. I encourage you to scoop up one of these reasonably priced masterpieces.

Jazzin' It up @ the CAM

2009-01-20T15:31:00.005-05:00

(photo still from The Great Gatsby, 1974)

Art Through Five Glasses: The Jazz Age
Saturday, January 24. 3 pm.
$10 general, $5 members. (reservations required)

As part of its Art in Five Glasses series, the CAM is hosting a Jazz-themed late afternoon event. Included are "Jazz Age" cocktails and "art from the Great Gatsby era." Although they do not announce which pieces will be on display, one anticipates that perhaps one of its famed Rookwood vases with art nouveau decoration may be included.

Fashion Photographs From the Future

2009-01-16T10:33:00.003-05:00

The Future of Fashion Photography

Sandra Small Gallery (124 W. Pike Street Covington, KY 41011)

Opening Reception: January 16, 5:30-9:30 pm. (exhibit will most likely be up through February 27)

I have realized this morning that I have neglected to post information about galleries and events of the GREATER Cincinnati area. Covington, Ky, for example, has a vibrant art scene and is just a hop, skip and a jump away from Cincinnati proper. Check out http://www.covingtonarts.com/ ...

Photographers Jacob Fakheri (Dallas, Texas), Jacob Jymi Bolden (Cincinnati), and Brad Austin Smith (Cincinnati), will illustrate what the future of fashion could be. As described by their website, the Sandra Small Gallery exhibits "an eclectic mix of contemporary art by emerging and post-emerging artists ." At the very least, this event could be a wonderful preface to a Friday night spend in Covington's fabulous MainStrasse Village. (http://www.mainstrasse.org/entertainment)

Come & See the CAC

2009-01-12T16:49:00.003-05:00

6:30 pm Come and See, Elem Klimov, 1985, 142 minutes

9 pm Masque of the Red Death, Roger Corman, 1964, 89 minutes

The Contemporary Arts Center

Members: free. Nonmembers: $7.50. Seniors $6.50. Students $5.50.

Perhaps taking its cue from the CAM, the CAC has launched a film series in conjunction with its current Discarded Spider exhibit. On the second Monday of each month, it will pair a horror film with a documentary (ostensibly the horror film is to get you to come and hopefully stay for the documentary?) This was all inspired by the exhibit's conceptual artist Carlos Amorales, whose work highlights the conventions of the horror genre in order to shed light on the everyday elements of horror and beauty around us.

This Monday:
Come and See features a character named "Teenager Florya" who joins a partisan group to fight the Nazis in Byelorussia. He ends up losing his colleagues and wondering through a land of pre-historic forests and man-made terror. Literary enthusiasts are sure to appreciate Masque of the Red Death, which is loosely based on to stories by Edgar Allen Poe. Film buffs can just sit back and critique the cinematography.

Double the Fun @ Weston Art Gallery

2009-01-12T16:39:00.002-05:00

"Art" DOUBLE FEATURE: Weston Art Gallery/Contemporary Dance Theater

Friday, January 23, 7 pm

The Weston Art Gallery/ Contemporary Dance Theater

$17 for reception and performance

This double-header features large-scale glow in the dark paintings and dancers, actors and singers whose work addresses current social and political issues. Although the description of the event that they posted on facebook is brief, the show looks quite intriguing. At the very least, it could be a great beginning to a fabulous Friday night downtown.

Porsche’s 2005 Carrera GT Races to the CAM

2009-01-12T13:04:00.002-05:00

The Cincinnati Art Museum

Porsche's 2005 Carrera GT

September 16-February 1, 2009

FREE

The Cincinnati Art Museum has wowed car enthusiasts with the ongoing series of cars they have displayed at the museum. Its aerodynamic nature allows it to reach high speeds and its utilization of the latest in car construction technology allow it to be both light-weight and sculptural. As admission to the regular museum is free, this is a must see!

Liz Writes Art

2008-08-07T15:27:00.005-04:00

I have recently created a separate site, "Liz Writes Art", on which to post all of my published articles. It is still under construction and I will be uploading more and more articles over the next few days. I would love your comments and feedback about what I have written.

P.S. You have to click on many of the pages so that they will be larger, more clear and, thus, easier to read.

Final Fridays and Second Look Saturdays

2008-07-24T14:16:00.003-04:00

Final Friday

Over the Rhine/ Downtown

6-8 pm

http://www.irhine.com/index.jsp?page=finalfriday

The end of the month always means Final Friday. If case you've never been, its an evening during which downtown galleries open their doors to the public. There is food and cocktails at many galleries and local bars and restaurants are also open. Check out the link above- it includes a great map. Although there are usually plenty of places to park, The Pendleton Arts Center (1310 Pendleton St.) offers convenient valet parking for $4.

Second Look Saturdays

The Pendleton Art Center (1310 Pendleton St., downtown)

11 am- 3 pm

The Pendleton Art Center is always a part of Final Friday. Now its also opening its doors on the last Saturday of each month. For those of you who don't know, the Pendleton houses gallery spaces for a wide range of artists. Its a large place and a great way to see many different kinds of art under one roof. For directions and more information visit http://www.pendletonartcenter.com/ebrochure.pdf.

All Our Favs at the Malton Gallery

2008-07-24T10:00:00.001-04:00

(A Ripple Winds, Dan Miller)

New Works

The Malton Gallery (2643 Erie Ave, Hyde Park)

Although there was no opening reception, the Malton Gallery has just opened a new show that promises to be spectacular. It features all of the Malton's most talented and famous artists. The photorealistic work of Dan Miller and the colorful compositions by Natalya Romanovsky are sure to please.

July's Hip Picks

2008-07-16T18:04:00.003-04:00

From now on I will have a "Hip Picks" list for each month. Its designed as a list of the most exciting, interesting, and intriguing shows and evetns that you absolutely don't want to miss. I will display these lists at the beginning of each month as a blog entry and you will also be able to access them under "Calendar" (right). If you have any suggestions for events or categories let me know!

Best Weekend Event: Manifest Opening (July 18), Miller Gallery's Up Close and Personal (July 18, August 2, August 9)

Best Mid-Week Event: CAM's Creative Design Breaks (July 16)

Best Gallery Show: Masterpieces at Manifest (July 18-August 5)

Most Exciting Event: Final Friday, July 25

Best Museum Show: Views from the Uffizi, Taft Museum (through October 12)

Up Close and Personal with the Miller Gallery

2008-07-16T14:04:00.003-04:00

(above: Canal Boats, Jon Michael Carter)

Up Close and Personal 2008: The Summer Artist Demonstration Series

Saturday, July 19. 11 am-3 pm.

The Miller Gallery (Hyde Park Square)

FREE

For three Saturdays this summer The Miller Gallery has an exciting lineup of artists demonstrations. This Saturday, John Michael Carter will paint from a live model. He is a talented artist whose paintings focus mainly on things he sees in his everyday life and his travels.

Save the Date: Saturday, August 2 and Saturday August 9 from 12-3 pm Ron Johnson and Ron Mosma will also do live demos. I will post more details about those artists later.

Architecture at the CAM

2008-07-14T14:20:00.002-04:00

Creative Breaks Design Summer- Architecture

The Cincinnati Art Museum

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

5:30-8:30 pm

FREE

For the next installment of its Creative Breaks Design Summer, the CAM is focusing on architecture. GBBN Architects, a renown firm in Cincinnati, will be on hand to discuss Green Design (which is obviously a hot topic today). There will also be tours of the CAM's featured exhibition David McCauley: The Art of Building Books and live bluegrass music by the Rumpke Mountain Boys. As per usual, there will be happy hour specials at the Terrace Cafe. As I have said before, this is an awesome way to get out mid-week.

Young Art

2008-07-14T09:27:00.004-04:00

("Untitled Study 6," Kim Krause)

Young at Art: Works on Paper by Emerging and Established Artists

The Phyllis Weston-Annie Bolling Gallery

July 11-August 16

This is an exciting show explores the flexibility and diversity of prints from the 1920s to the present. Prints are a form of media that is not always immediately recognized and is often underestimated. They are often great ways, however, to collect works by famous artists because they are often more affordable and readily-available (i.e. Picasso print vs. Picasso oil on canvas). Prints themselves, however, are also a great form of expression in and of themselves. The prints of Albrecht Durer (c. 1500), for example, have a great amount of precision and detail and were produced in relatively few editions and, thus, are very expensive. In the 1960s, Andy Warhol began to mass-produce photo-silkscreens and toyed with the idea that art, like other commercial endeavors, could be mass-produced. However you look at it, prints have been used throughout art history by many artists for many different reasons. This show explores that by showing everything from the traditional prints by Harry Shokler to the contemporary architectural structures depicted in George Schmidt's works. My personal favorites include the incredible colorful "Untitled Study 6 " by Kim Krause and the kitschy 1950s-inspired "2nd Place" by Melissa Harshman.

The Taft Goes to Italy

2008-07-02T13:19:00.006-04:00

Canaletto, The Tower of Marghera, c. 1750

This summer, patrons can immerse themselves in a multi-sensory experience at the Taft. The museums is offering an incredible special exhibit, a special menu at its cafe, and an incredible summer concert series.

Views from the Uffizi: Painting of the Italian Landscape

The Taft Museum

Now- through October 12, 2008

$13- adult, $10 seniors and students.
Wednesdays: $5 adults, $4 seniors and students.
special coupons with meal at cafe (see below)

If you can't pocket a trip to Italy this summer, a visit to the Taft might just be the next best thing. Views from the Uffizi: Painting of the Italian Landscape, explores the evolution of Italian landscape painting from the Renaissance through the 18th century. With artists such as Botticelli, Guercino, Poussin, Claude Lorrain and Canaletto, who needs to fly to Europe?

The Taft is also offering special Italian-inspired cuisine at its Lindner Family Cafe. With the purchase of a meal at the cafe, patrons can receive free admission with the purchase of at least 2 tickets.

Taft With a Twist: Molto Italiano

Thursday, July 10, 7-10 pm.

Food, Wine, Italian food, and "Fellini Bellinis" at cash bar

$10 non-members, free for members

Reservations recommended ((513) 684-4526, www.taftmuseum.org)

To go along with their Italian theme, the Taft is offering an evening of relaxing and festive Italian entertainment. This is also a great way to check out the exhibit since admission is cheaper than usual. The event will also feature a bocce tournament and noodle games.

Saturday, July 19, 11 am- 4 pm.

A Day In Italy

FREE

This day is geared towards family fun. Folk dancing, crafts, music, and cultural displays promise to keep children entertained. Parents will love the performances by the Cincinnati Opera, Paul Wagner Band, My Nose Turns Red Theater Company, and Frisch Marionettes. With no general admission, this would be a perfect day to check out the Uffizi show.

Taft Sessions Music Series

Sunday, July 20, 2 pm: Kim Taylor

Sunday, August 17, 2 pm: Peter Mulvey

Cash bar, FREE

These concerts take place under the the tent of the Taft's garden and are a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Interior Design at the CAM

2008-07-02T12:36:00.005-04:00

Cincinnati Art Museum

Creative Breaks Design Summer- Interior Design

Wednesday, June 2, 5:30-9 pm.

For the third part of its Creative Breaks Design Summer, the CAM is focusing on interior design. Admission is free, and there will be music and drink and appetizer specials. The most enticing features of this installment include the opportunity to create Rookwood inspired tiles, live reggae music, and an opportunity to chat with the innovative High Street Studio about their unique London style. This is definitely a relaxing, mid-week treat. There will also be tours at 6 and 8 pm featuring the museum's best make out spots.

ART & SOUL

2008-06-16T09:13:00.004-04:00

(Suzanne Lambert)

Art & Soul

YWCA Women's Art Gallery

Opening Reception: Friday, June 20, 6-8 pm.
(show runs through September 8)

Two artists, Suzanne Lambert and Ann Zeff join forces to create an exhibit that exudes life, beauty, movement, and color.

Suzanne Lambert states that “My intention is to visually demonstrate the underlying movement within All Life through color, tone and composition. I want to infuse this energy in the audience and lift their souls.”

And Ann Zeff describes that she has "tried to use my creativity to express the beauty of life as it occurs in emotional and spatial relationships. My goal is to make a solid piece of stone come alive.”

This show and exciting open reception are not to be missed.

Fashion at the CAM

2008-06-16T09:06:00.003-04:00

Creative Design Breaks Summer: Fashion

Cincinnati Art Museum

Wednesday, June 18, 5:30-8:30 pm

FREE

For their second and last installment of Creative Design Breaks Summer, the CAM has decided to entertain art and fashion enthusiasts alike. The owner of Suki, a local Hyde Park boutique will be hosting. The Museum Teen Advisory Board will also host a Fashion Challenge. There will also be music and cafe and bar specials and the museum galleries will be open.

Meet David Macaulay at Fitton

2008-06-16T08:46:00.005-04:00

(from Cathedral, David Macaulay)

Presentation and Book Signing

Fitton Center for the Arts

Monday, June 16, 6-8 pm

Today the artist David Macaulay will be conducting an artist presentation and signing books at the Fitton Center for the Arts. Macaulay is famous both for his work as an author, illustrator, and expert of architecture and design. He originally hails from Lancashire, England and is an alumnus and faculty at the Rhode Island School of Design.

He has written a number children's fiction books about the construction and creation of certain historical architectural phenomena. This includes Cathedral, which explains the way ancient Gothic Cathedrals were erected using a fictitious Gothic Cathedral. He employs this similar techniques of explaining the way historical architectural structures were built in his books City, about a Roman city; and Aberwyvern Castle, about a Medieval castle. He has also written Pyramid, about Egyptian pyramids; Mill; about the New England mills; and Unbuilding, about the hypothetical dismantling of the Empire State Building to be re-erected in Asia. There is also the self-explanatory Mosque and Underground, a series of books which explains foundations, support structures, and underground water and sewer pipes are built.

His books are terribly interesting and it would be great to hear the process behind his genius creations as well as obtain a signed copy of one or more of his works. This would also, obviously, be a great event to bring children to. These books also offer a straightforward way for adults to understand the incredible way in which great works of architecture were constructed.

Rookwood at Treadway

2008-06-03T15:08:00.004-04:00

(E.T. Hurley)

Rookwood Auction

Northern Kentucky Convention Center (One West Rivercenter Blvd., Covington)

Preview- Friday, June 6. 10 am- 9 pm.

Saturday, June 7- Session 1- 10 am. Lots 1201-1522

Sunday, June 8- Session 2- 12 pm. Lots 1523-1942

Online Catalog & Information: www.treadwaygallery.com

This Saturday and Sunday the nationally recognized Treadway Gallery will host an auction of Rookwood pottery at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center. The world famous creations of Rookwood pottery today can fetch upwards of $300,000 and are unique for their exceptional quality and exquisite decoration. Its history is rich and can be traced back to the late 1870s, when Maria Longworth aspired to create a place for women to go and decorate pottery. Her work was almost instantly recognized for its unique decorative quality and Rookwood became one of the first major businesses owned exclusively by a woman.

Rookwood became committed to developing innovative techniques and continued to create cutting-edge work. They were the first to use an atomizer, similar to an airbrush, to glaze their creations. They were also famous for their distinctive green and golden hues, which were made from combining clay found in the Ohio Valley.

Today, you can visit the old Rookwood Pottery in Mt. Adams. It currently houses the restaurant Porkopolis, but retains its original architecture. Diners, for example, can enjoy a meal inside one of the old kilns and black and white photos decorate many of the walls. In 2006, The Rookwood Company negotiated with Michigan collector Dr. Art Townley to purchase the trademarks and over 3,000 molds used in the original factory. The original techniques are, thus, largely kept under wraps.

Michael Feinstein Concert

2008-06-03T09:52:00.003-04:00

Michael Feinstein Concert & Reception

Fitton Center for Creative Arts (101 S Monument Ave, Hamilton)

Friday, June 6, 8 pm.

Tickets $100-150.

Michael Feinstein is one of the "premier interpreters of American popular song." He performs at major concert halls, symphony orchestras, jazz clubs and, in this case, the Fitton Center. To learn more about him check out http://www.michaelfeinstein.com/. After his performance, he will attend the reception at the Carruthers Signature Ballroom. To reserve tickets call (513) 863-8873 X110.

MANIFEST Opening

2008-06-03T09:36:00.003-04:00

(untitled, Lisa Wilson)

Magnitude 7

MANIFEST (2727 Woodburn Ave.)

Friday, June 6, 6-9 pm.

MANIFEST made its 4th annual call to artists and designers to submit works no larger than 7 in any dimension. The goal is to create works that evoke in the viewer the sense of one's own physicality. They create the opportunity for viewers to have a closer relationship with the work.

Kristin Stewart at V & V

2008-06-03T09:27:00.005-04:00

Visionaries & Voices (800 Main St.)

Meet the Artist: Kristin Stewart

Thursday, June 5, 5-7 pm.

Kristin Stewart is a resident artist at the local Elgin Retro Furniture Store (810 Main St). In addition to providing fabulous retro furniture, this store features some cool modern art and classic stained glass. Check out their website at http://www.elginoffice.com/elginretro.htm.

Food and Fashion at the CAM

2008-06-03T09:17:00.004-04:00

Creative Breaks Design Summer: FOOD

Wednesday, June 4. 5:30-8:30 pm.

Cincinnati Art Museum

FREE

The Terrace Cafe's (the cafe at the CAM) chef Bruce Muncy will cook up great food and the CAM will provide music, cafe, and bar specials. The rest of the museum will also be open for your viewing pleasure. Also be sure to keep in mind that this series will continue on Wednesday, June 18, with a "fashion" theme. The owner of Suki and the Art Museum's Teen Advisory Board will both be hosting and there will be a fashion challenge.

Karaoke at CAC

2008-06-02T08:41:00.003-04:00

Walt's Karaoke Bar and Cafe

Contemporary Arts Center

Monday evenings through April 25, 6-8 pm

Admission free on Mondays, 5-9 pm

As part of its American Idyll exhibit, the CAC is offering a Karaoke night every Monday from now until April 24. "Artist-as-karaoke-jockey" Joel Armor "explores human behavior and social interaction through is pop culture phenomenon." In addition to performing your favorite Karaoke song, there will be a cash bar featuring "karaoke-inspired cocktails." Since admission is now free on Mondays from 5-9 pm, this is a a great new way to check out the museum.

ArtWorks Reception

2008-05-28T12:04:00.004-04:00

There Were Three: works by Molly Donnermeyer, Matthew Morris, Eric Ruschman

ArtWorks Gallery, 811 Race St.

Friday, May 30. 6-9 pm. (show runs through June 13)

For this exhibition, three local artists and Art Academy graduates create aesthetic masterpieces using found objects, fabric, soap, paper and other simple materials. The exhibit consists of drawing, sculptures, and installations that create personal narratives. The overall show is designed to "address the poetics of space" and express "the three's personal mythologies."

Oakley After Hours

2008-05-28T11:45:00.011-04:00

Oakley After Hours

Friday, May 30. 6-10 pm. (final Friday each month)

Participating Sponsors: Aglamesis, blue manatee, BOCA, Casa Delorenzo, Dewey's Pizza, 20th Century Production, Habit's Cafe, Kathy Jones Skincare, King Arthur's Court Toys, Kona Bistro, Oakley Pub & Grill, Queen City Nutrition, The Spotted Goose, Voltage Inspired Living Spaces, City Beat, Astute Furnishings, denium, The Fresh Market, House of France.

Similar to Final Fridays in downtown Cincinnati, the last Friday of each month bars, stores, and galleries in Oakley stay open late the last friday of each month. This event also features sales at local stores, live music by local bands, and happy hour specials and participating restaurants and bars

Dianne McElwain at Weston-Bolling

2008-05-28T11:33:00.004-04:00

Also this Friday, the Phyllis Weston- Annie Bolling gallery is opening a show by local artist Dianne McElwain. She is known nationally as an artist who expertly depicts botanical art with great scientific accuracy. This exhibit includes plants from native to Ohio, wildflowers, orchids, and some from the Krohn Conservatory.

New Botanical Paintings by Dianne McElwain: Opening Reception and Meet the Artist

Phyllis Weston- Annie Bolling Gallery

Friday, May 28. 5-8 pm. (show runs through June 28)

2008 Cincinnati Fringe Festival

2008-05-28T11:14:00.003-04:00

The Fringe Festival gets its roots from Edinburgh, Scotland, where artists who were not included in the local arts festival decided to create a way to showcase and celebrate "fringe" art. In Cincinnati, local, regional, and national artists showcase their work downtown in both traditional and nontraditional spaces. The festival not only showcases alternative visual art, but also performance and film pieces. The goal is to have a forum and opportunity for artists who are not normally acknowledged by traditional art and to show the world how fabulous progressive art is.

I recommend checking out the website as well as the link to the official Fringe Festival blog for details about daily events. There's a lot going on so this would be the best way to pick and chose the events you want to go to. This weekend Fringe joins up with traditional Final Friday celebration.

Cincinnati Fringe Festival- Final Friday

Friday, May 30. 5-9 pm.

Pendleton/ Mainstreet area galleries (check out website for official map)

Kennedy Heights Art Center Opening

2008-05-22T21:07:00.003-04:00

Shattered Myths- Twenty-One Visions Contemplaring the Actual Cost of War

Saturday, May 24, 6-9 pm. Artist Talk 7 pm.
(show runs through June 14)

Kennedy Heights Art Center (6546 Montgomery Road)

For those of you who have never been to the Kennedy Heights Art Center, you should know it is something definitely worth checking out. This Saturday would be the perfect opportunity. They do not release a great deal of information about their exhibits beforehand, however, the artist talk mentioned above promises to answer any questions you may have about the show.

3 Tomorrow at the CAC

2008-05-22T20:34:00.007-04:00

Images above: Matt Coors, Here Be Dragons? 2005. Mark Harris, Mao Songs, 2006. An-My Le, Small Wars 1999-2002.

Uncoordinated: Mapping Cartography in Contemporary Art, American Idyll: Contemporary Art and Karaoke, An-My Le: Small Wars

Contemporary Arts Center

Friday, May 23. 7-11 pm (shows run through August 17, 24, and 10 respectively)

$10 guests, free for members

This Friday the CAC is opening 3 amazing shows. Since it lasts until 11 pm, you could easily hit up Miller Gallery and then stop by CAC. Uncoordinated: Mapping Cartography in Contemporary Art is highly conceptual in nature but also consists of a body of aesthetically pleasing artwork. It addresses the way in which we rely on maps as subjective and complete sources of information when, in actuality, there can be intentional or unintentional omissions. Thus, the cartography (map maker) has a great deal over power and influence over a society which relies upon maps.

American Idyll: Contemporary Art and Karaoke looks at the way in which this pop culture fascination has affected our society. This show examines the way in which artists have been inspired by karaoke. It also looks at the concept of karaoke itself (i.e. does it unite people or is it a "mass produced catharsis for alienated cultural spectators?") At the very least, the show references American Idol and The Real World and promises to be very entertaining.

An-My Le: Small Wars is a more serious show but is nonetheless terribly important and poignant. It consists of 50 gelatin silver prints from the two series, both of which address and examine military and war. For her series An-My Le went to a Marine base in the Mojave Desert where she photographed soldiers in various stages of training. This included situations in which soldiers roll-played and dressed up as their enemies. For her second series, Small Wars, An-My Le joins a Vietnam re-enactor group. She examines the way in which we recreate and glorify warfare after the fact.

Amy Giust & Ron Romano

2008-05-19T14:34:00.001-04:00

left: Thinking Happy Thoughts, Amy Giust
right: Sola #2, Ronald Romano

Amy Giust & Ron Romano

The Miller Gallery

Opening Friday, March 16, 2008, 5-8 pm

Showing May 16-30

This Friday two amazing artists are opening at The Miller Gallery. Amy Giust and Ron Romano both make use of abstraction and playful color in what promises to be an exciting and interesting show. Amy Giust, a Cincinnati-born artist, is inspired by the artwork of her children and the sounds of jazz, classical and rock music. She uses the techniques of Matisse and Picasso to create everyday images that could be classified as geometrically abstract.

Ron Ramano uses a palette similar to Giust's but takes abstraction to a much higher level. Unlike Giust, there is no figurative subject matter and the goal of his work is to create depth on a 2-D surface. Both artists are extremely talented and this show is certainly worth checking out.

Discover the YWCA Women's Art Gallery

2008-05-19T14:09:00.002-04:00

above: Impressionist work by Trish Weeks

The YWCA Women's Art Gallery is a hidden treasure. It is the only local gallery to exclusively feature women artists and, along with the YWCA, its mission is to "empower local women artists." I regret that I have yet to post anything about this gallery and I hope that this posting will inspire you to visit sometime soon. Its current show Spring Awakening, celebrates the "arrival of this season of new beginnings."

Spring Awakening

YWCA Women's Art Gallery (898 Walnut St, corner of 9th and Walnut, across from Public Library)

April 11- June 16

Monday- Friday, 9-5 pm, afterhours and Saturday by appointment

Malton Gallery is Illuminated

2008-05-19T10:28:00.000-04:00

Illuminated: The Art of Light and Color featuring work by Carol Henry

The Malton Gallery (Hyde Park Square)

Tuesday- Saturday 11 am- 5 pm

Semantics at Semantics Gallery

2008-05-19T09:32:00.000-04:00

Aging: Its not just for kids anymore

Semantics Gallery (1107 Harrison Ave)

open Saturday, 12-4

This is another gallery who have probably never heard of but definetly need to check out. It is one of Cincinnati's oldest co-ops and presents a wide range of traditional and non-traditional artists. They generally hold openings the first Saturday of every month and thus each show lasts only 1 month. The space is only open on Saturdays from 12-4, so it would be the perfect place to spend a nice spring afternoon.

Photo-Realistic Warhol

2008-05-10T19:40:00.004-04:00

Turn In, Turn On and Hook Up

ArtWorks (811 Race St.)

April 18-May 23

Sadly the days of Warhol's photo silkscreen prints and the parties at his silver Factory are over. Scott Donaldson, however, has taken over where Warhol left off. Unlike Warhol, however, all of the portraits are unique and photo-realistic. All and all, the exhibition's purpose is to "represent Donaldson's take on popular culture." The glaring, energetic colors and portraits of both past and contemporary celebrities will take you back to the 1970's and the beginning of Pop Art. His depictions of Amy Winehouse and Bill Gates make it well worth the trip.

One World Wednesday: Scandinavia

2008-05-06T20:07:00.005-04:00

One World Wednesday: Scandinavia

CAM. Wednesday May 7, 2008. 5:30-9 pm.

$8 non-members, free for members

limited beverage sampling and food for purchase

This is the CAM's final One World Wednesday of the year. Entertainment includes designs by IKEA, mixing by DJ SplottyKaeko, dancing by the Cincinnati Ballet, singing by the Trolls and Sweeds Choir, and tours through the LeWitt Collection.

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2008-05-05T14:40:00.006-04:00

Silk & Spice Gala

CAC

Saturday, May 10. Gala (6-10 pm). Build/ Stacked After Party (10 pm- 1 am)

Tickets (advance on sale now): $300-$175 for the Gala, $20 for the After party

The seventh annual Silk & Spice Gala at the CAC to celebrate its almost 7 decades in Cincinnati and to honor visionary Jay Chatterjee. While the Gala at the beginning of the evening is followed by the less-pricey after party geared towards the y.p. crowd. At the Gala, guests have the opportunity to bid on the works mentioned in my posting below. The after party offers a more laid-back opportunity for Cincy's younger art enthusiasts to mix and mingle.

FORM Auction at the CAC

2008-05-05T13:36:00.007-04:00

FORM: Contemporary Architects at Play

Saturday, May 10, 2008. 7 pm

Auction Preview by Appointment May 3- May 10

Bidders MUST register in advance

(Massimo Vignelli Cube)

(www.contemporaryartscenter.org/FORM//index.html)

CAC, Lower Level Performance Space

Exhibition of View: Level 5

May 3- August 31

"As we celebrate our fifth year in the Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art, we want to mark this historical moment with a bit of history-making. Design is essential to our daily lives- its not confined to buildings and structures, but is part of how we live, work and play. FORM celebrates and advances the centrality of creative design in our lives."

(Raphaela Platow, Director and Chief Curator)

The CAC and the Formica Corporation have teamed up to commission a number of world-famous architects to create various pieces of fine art which, in one way or another, incorporate Formica into their designs. This exclusive auction features work by many renowned contemporary architects including Peter Eisenman, Michael Graves, Zaha Hadid, Thom Mayne, Bill Pederson, Laurinda Spear, Bernard Tschumi, Jaime Velez, Massimo Vignelli, and Buzz Yudel. The works are extremely contemporary, incredibly innovative, and range from $1800- $290,000.

2 to Check out at the CAM

2008-05-05T12:19:00.006-04:00

The Cincinnati Art Museum has a few new exhibits that I've neglected to mention. Maps & Manifest: New Works by Mark Bradford is a show features canvasses that are address both physical and psychological space. He addresses urban sprawl and the local effects of globalization using advertisements and and billboard paper gathered from his neighborhood in L.A.

Maps & Manifest: New Works by Mark Bradford

March 1-May 5

(check out his youtube video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGhzDqZDxt4)

Also, for those of you car enthusiasts, the CAM has a Jaguar E-Type Roadster designed by Sir William Lyons on loan from the private collection of Stephen A. Locker. The designer avoided the typical "muscle car" look that was so popular in the 1980s and created a sleek, stylish car that helped established Jaguar's reputation as a manufacturer of well-designed cars. Even its top competitor, Enzo Ferrari, called it "the most beautiful car ever."

Jaguar's E-Type Roadster

January 1- May 18

Gallery Talk at the CAC

2008-03-24T21:31:00.005-04:00

Daniel Libeskind Tour

Saturday, March 29. 2 pm.

(Installation runs through May 11)

Contemporary Arts Center

Free for members, admission fee for non-members.

After a world-wind exciting Final Friday, be sure to check out this intriguing gallery talk at the CAC. Exhibition curator Cynthia Goodman and Associate Professor of Architecture, UK and long-term colleague of of Libeskind Jerzy Rozenburg will discuss and lead a tour of the Daniel Libeskind installation currently on view.

Even if you can't make it to this exciting tour, be sure to check out the installation before it leaves the CAC. In the words of the Libeskind himself, "this installation is like a microcosm of a city in which public spaces move in new directions and create new scales of public space in relation to the individual."

Discover Fitton Center for Creative Arts

2008-03-24T21:21:00.004-04:00

Spring Showcase: Fitton Center Member Artists

Opening Reception Friday, March 28. 6-8 pm.

(exibition through May 9)

101 South Monument Avenue, Hamilton

The Fitton Center for Creative Arts is an out-of-the-way treasure. If you can't visit the opening (since it is on Final Friday) be sure to make the trek to see this exhibiton before its over. The Fitton is a little treasure that most people in Cincinnati never visit. This reception showcases work by the members of the center, who are most likely promising but unknown artists.

http://www.fittoncenter.org/

Final Friday

2008-03-24T21:11:00.003-04:00

Final Friday

Pendleton and North Main Streets, Over-the-Rhine

Friday, March 28. 6-10 pm

FREE

At the end of the month, Cincinnati art buffs can always look forward to Final Friday. On Pendelton and North Main Street, this event always showcases new and seasoned artists at a diverse group of galleries. In addition to art, the event boasts artistic furniture, floral arrangements, and other design projects. It is always one of the best art ventures in Cincinnati and is a very social and educational event. Check out the website below for a map and list of participating galleries.

http://www.irhine.com/index.jsp?page=finalfriday

Art and Cinema

2008-03-24T20:55:00.004-04:00

Nanking

Cincinnati World Cinema

Cincinnati Art Museum

Tuesday, March 25 and Wednesday, March 26. 7 pm

$9, $7 for members.

Cinema is a form of art and it is, thus, appropriate that the CAM would host viewing of artistic, top-notch movies. This Tuesday and Wednesday The Cincinnati World Cinema is pairing up with the CAM for a viewings of Nanking. The Cincinnati World Cinema is an organization that provides "the community with outstanding motion pictures that explore the human condition and and celebrate cultural diversity." In other words, highly artistic films you could not see outside independent film houses or museums.

Nanking is the "the true story of how a few brave souls saved the lives of thousands." Its a documentary of the Nanking massacre of 1937, one of the most brutal in all history. Although not terribly uplifting, it is informative, thought-provoking, and important.

http://www.cincinnatiworldcinema.org/

Go Contemporary at the CAM

2008-03-21T11:07:00.005-04:00

Weekend Special Exhibition Tour: Contemporary Collection

Saturday, March 22. 2 pm

Free

Meet the docent in the CAM lobby, tour generally lasts 1 hour

We must not underestimate the CAM as a valuable source of modern work. Although the CAC is the best source for all things contemporary, the CAM does have an entire third floor devoted to newer work. Unlike the CAC, the CAM also has a permanent collection, so if find something you like you can go back to see it. There is nothing better, moreover, than spending one hour of your Saturday afternoon learning more about art.

ART4CHANGE

2008-03-21T10:57:00.006-04:00

ART4CHANCE

Saturday, March 22. 3-5pm

(Display rungs March 15-April 3rd.)

Red Tree Gallery (Oakley)

Red Tree has, once again, provided us with a show unlike any other in the greater Cincinnati area. art4change is a collaborative community organization revitalizing the city through the arts. This particular event features work by Big Brothers and Big Sisters on sale for $40, with the profit going to directly back to them.

The LK at CAC

2008-03-21T10:46:00.004-04:00

The LK

Saturday, March 22. 8 pm

CAC performance space

$7 members, $10 non-members

The creative assemblage of art and music done by LK is unique, entertaining and innovative. Oftentimes in contemporary art, the boundaries between music, art, and performance are completely diminished. This creates a multi-sensory experience and has the potential to impact the viewer more than a simple 2-D canvas would. Like much of the work at the CAC, this work combines performance, music and other visual elements. At the very least, it promises to be something new and different.

http://www.contemporaryartscenter.org

Odita at the CAC

2008-03-20T22:19:00.007-04:00

Flow, Odili Donald Odita

Artist Lecture: Odili Donald Odita

Saturday, March 22. 2 pm
(show runs through Fall 2008)

Free for members, CAC admission for non-members

As part of his show currently on display, Odili Donald Odita will give an illustrated lecture about his work and the way that his upbringing in both Nigeria and Ohio have influenced it. He will describe the musical and visual influences behind it and the connection it has to the minimalist/conceptual art of Sol LeWitt, who also has a current show at the CAC.

Odili Donald Odita:Flow

November 10- Fall 2008

In October 2007, Odita began planning his work for Kaplan Hall, the lobby of the CAC designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid. It continues Hadid's idea that the area should be a public square and a part of Cincinnati's urban landscape. The work is intended to make the viewer move about the open space and complements the architecture. The work contains over 112 colors with different combinations on each wall. Its both enchanting and memorizing.

http://www.contemporaryartscenter.org

Comboni Missionaries Depict Darfur

2008-03-20T21:38:00.007-04:00

The Combini Missionaries, a group devoted to aiding the poorest and most disadvantaged people of the world, currently has an intriguing show purpoted to benefit the victims of the Darfur crisis. The beauty of the Comboni Mission Museum, moreover, is an excellent backdrop for any kind of art exhibit. Click on the image above to enlarge and get more details.

Rembrandt at the CAM

2008-03-20T21:22:00.005-04:00

Self-Portrait with Gorgon and Beret, 1629

Rembrandt: Three Faces of the Master

March 8- May 21

If there is any one show to get excited about now it would be Rembrandt at the CAM. Everyone's heard of him and everyone knows he's fabulous. Unfortunately, for non-members there is a $5 fee and the show is very small. Nonetheless, its Rembrandt. Enough said.

The main feature are three of his self-portraits, one of which has never traveled outside the Louvre. Rembrandt painted self-portraits throughout his life, and in this show one can see firsthand how his style evolved. The show also promises to address the issues of self-representation and image as well.

http://www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Art History at Eisele

2008-03-20T20:53:00.008-04:00

"New Acqusitions"

Now- March 31

Eisele Gallery of Fine Art

5729 Dragaon Away (fairfax)

Findlay Market in August, John Effler

This traditional art of this gallery is expertly framed by the beauty of the Historic Ferris House itself. It features mostly traditional style art by both contemporary and older artists and has a very small but eclectic assortment of decorative art objects. Decorative objects are, unfortunately, typically omitted from fine arts collections so this gallery offers something unique. A lot of the art, moreover, is somewhat affordable and there is even a section of their website which features art that is under $2500. There is also a great deal of work done by local artists depicting local scenes. It is definitely worth, at least, checking out this website.

http://www.eiselefineart.com

Friday Nights, Open Studio, and Friends Night Out and Created Illusions

2008-03-17T09:19:00.005-04:00

Every Friday, 5-8 pm

Great Art, Wine and Cheese

2838 Observatory Ave.

This is a relatively new gallery with an eclectic array of work you couldn't necessarily find anywhere else. This is another place that is non-intimidating and is likely to appeal to the individual who doesn't want to look at scenes of death or controversial images. Its almost impossible to leave this gallery in a bad mood.

Open Studio Night

Final Wednesday of Every Month

$35 if you bring your own supplies, $50 including all supplies

Taught by Artist in Residence Andrea Frangiosa

This is an opportunity to paint and meet fellow artists. Instruction and supplies are available.

Friends Night Out

Anytime

Possibly the coolest thing is gallery does. On any given night, you can schedule your own customized class. It would be a fun way to get together with a group of friends and try something new. Supplies, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres are provided.

http://www.createdillusionsartgallery.com

The Buzz at The Weston Art Gallery

2008-03-17T08:41:00.008-04:00

Dungeon Thud, "Hairrier," 2000

Nate Larson, "Fortune Cookie

Mark Harris, "Meihaoyaodian"

Not to be confused with the Annie Bolling- Phyllis Westin Gallery, this Gallery is the one downtown adjascent to the Aronoff Center downtown. They often have cutting-edge, experimental and fabulously interesting shows. I would recommend heading down sometime in the near future to check out the three great shows currently displayed.

Harrier the Hovering Drone by Jimmy Baker and Nathan Tersteeg (Dungeon Thud)

Now- March 30

Gallery Talk Tuesday, March 5 at 7 pm (i'll repost it then to remind you)

These two artists have worked together before to create fabulous installations. For this particular one, they have assumed the single name of Dungeon Thud. Like many contemporary installations, this one combines the media of sound, video and performance and immerses the viewer in a completely sensory experience. It is set up in the street-level gallery, so those passing by might notice a key aspect of the display: artificial hair spewing from a Harrier Jet. It seeks to "synthesize the relationship of psychedelic rock to its symbolic association with war and aggression."

Miracle Pennies and Other Stories: Photography and Video by Nate Larson

Now- March 30

Gallery Talk Saturday, January 26 at 2 pm.

This photography exhibit forms a narrative exploring the way in which we construct meaning in contemporary culture. The artist explores skepticism, religion, consumer behavior, ordinary days that have become suddenly not so ordinary and the way that insignificant objects sometimes take on significant meanings. His work is self-conscious in the way that it examines the way that photography conveys both subjective and objective truth.

Utopian Bands and Related Works by Mark Harris

Now-March 30

Gallery Talk Tuesday, February 5 at 2 pm

Mary Harris, the director of the School of Art at DAAP, has created a highly-theoretical show consisting of painting, video, photography and artists books, which "examines the imagery of intoxication as a form of Utopian representation." Harris traveled to Beijing in the summer of 2006 and taped six Chinese rock bands in a concert he helped organize. It celebrates the return of the Utopian ideals which were once repressed by Communism.

http://www.westonartgallery.com

Discover Visionaries & Voices

2008-03-13T08:53:00.009-04:00

Open House & Reception

Visionaries & Voices North Studio

225 Northland Blvd.

Friday, March 18. 5-8 pm.

"Food, new works by V &V artists, artist talks, and some gold old fashioned fun."

By supporting Visionaries & Voices you are not only supporting the local art community, but you are also supporting individuals with with disabilities. It's a win-win situation. This is a space devoted to the growth of local art and diverse artisitic endeavors. I strongly suggest that you learn more about them at their open house/ reception this Friday, celebrating the one year anniversary of their Northland studio (they have an older one on Essex Place). It would be a good opportunity to learn more about them and to see how you can get involved with this wonderful organization.

http://www.visionariesandvoices.com

The Next Jim Dine

2008-03-11T18:12:00.006-04:00

Hearts, Jim Dine, 1970.

Who Will Be the Next Duveneck or Dine?

The Phyllis Weston- Annie Bolling Gallery

Friday, March 14. 5-8 pm.

(exhibition continues through April 19)

Most people don't respect Cincy as a place where new and innovative art is made. The truth is that it really can be. Among others, Cincinnati can brag about Robert Frederick Blum, Jim Borgman, Jim Dine, Robert Scott Duncanson, Frank Duveneck, Samuel Hannaford, Charlie Harper, Robert Henri, Tim Folzenlogen, Winsor McCay, Frank Harmon Myers, John Ruthven, Maria Longworth Nicols Storer, John Henry Twachtman, Leon Van Loo, and Tom Wesselmann. (Even you don't know those artists google them, they're each amazing in their own right.)

This Friday, the Phyllis Weston- Annie Bolling Gallery is opening a show devoted to Cincinnati's future greats. Obviously we haven't heard the names yet, but this would be a great opportunity to purchase some fabulous works at a great price. The gallery has won much respect in the city since it's opening and I think their picks are likely worth buying.

http://www.westonbollinggallery.com