An Artistic Feast You Won’t Want to Miss

// May 1st, 2012 // View Comments // b-inspired, featured

When was the last time you visited an edible exhibition? Were there jelly crystal portraits and biscuit shearing sheds on display at your last museum visit? If you took advantage of the amazing FEAST exhibit during your last museum excursion, then you were able to experience an artistic feast that is unlike any other exhibit.

Four Months of Feasting

FEAST: Radical Hospitality in Contemporary Art is a one-of-its-kind project where artists from all over the world congregate to share their experience over meals. This unique exhibit began in February 2012. It is set to continue until June 2012. The exhibition spans over a period of 4 months. The participatory meals and art work is taking place in the Smart Museum and in various parts of Chicago. For certain projects, guests are chosen by lottery. For other events guests are chosen randomly.

Enjoy the Greeting Ceremony

A unique feature is the way people are greeted. Each individual is addressed with a spoonful of jelly. This custom is practiced in Serbia where guests are welcomed into the house with jelly. The idea behind this greeting is to sweeten the entry of a guest. The same reasoning for this ritual is behind the greeting ceremony for the Feast exhibition.

Unique Projects on Exhibit

The names of the works of art are as unique as their concepts. For example, Mella Jaarsma’s  project is titled: I Eat You Eat Me. Here the participants have to wear Jaarsma’s designed sculpture that inherently brings two people close to feed each other. Jaarsma’s project is great way to bond with your museum partner.

The Act of Drinking Beer with Friends is Highest form of Art from Tom Marioni’s perspective. Once a month, friends get free beer. This project was inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony.

In a certain restaurant in Chelsea, Alison Knowles ordered the same food item at lunch. She always requested a tuna fish sandwich with butter and lettuce but no mayonnaise. This meal was always accompanied by a glass of buttermilk. Knowles made a composition out of this everyday affair in her unique work of art.

A Feast for Everyone

From Gordon Matta-Clark to Rirkrit Tiravanija, talented artists are flocking to this feast. This remarkable exhibit is a feast unlike any other, and you won’t want to miss it.

If you are looking for unique artwork, brief the Exchange now!

mimosa creations

6 Tips for Photography Lovers

// April 16th, 2012 // View Comments // b-Crowd, b-inspired, featured

Photography tools and tricks have changed throughout the years, but the universal love of imagery never fades. Here are 6 tips that will help photography lovers stand out from the crowd.

1. Don’t Limit Your Perspective

It’s a digital world, so what is holding you back from taking as many shots as you need? Take multiple shots at multiple angles of your subject. You will be surprised at how a simple perspective change can enhance the artistic quality of any scene. By simply moving your camera away from your regular eye level, you may be able to help others see what you see in your subject.

2. Remember the Rule of Thirds

When you’re following the rule of thirds you mentally divide the scene in the LCD screen into nine equal parts using a grid pattern, and you line up your subject up with these vertical and horizontal lines and cross sections.  The rule of thirds helps your photo have a more balanced appearance.  However, if your subject only has a big empty space in the opposite third of your camera’s LCD screen, your end result may be side heavy.  If your layout is side heavy, try balancing the scene with a less important object in the opposite third. Although some cameras include grid patterns to help users, this rule is a basic trick many photographers learn to do naturally.

3. Less is More

If you want to show how dew drops gather on a field of wildflowers, you would not necessarily need a picture of the entire field. Since your focus would be the dew itself, then in this case it would be best to focus in on one flower. To enhance your photography, keep your subjects uncluttered. By staying focused on only the scenery necessary to accentuate your subject, you can really make your photos shine.

4.  Don’t Forget Your Memory

Go ahead and invest in a larger memory card or two for your camera. If you don’t, you’ll be sure to miss out on the perfect shot due to a full memory card. If you remember to keep plenty of memory on hand, you won’t have to feel pressured to delete a potential masterpiece in order to make room for a new one.

5. Tripods Can Be Worth the Trouble

Although tripods can be hassle at time, when you use one you will be able to use more of the built-in features of your camera.  If you use a tripod along with the self timer setting on your camera, you will be able to join those exciting group picture shots. So be sure to tuck in your tripod as you pack up for your vacation.

6. Hold Your Breath

A simple trick to help you steady yourself and the camera is to take a deep breath, hold it, and then take the picture. The breath-holding method helps you to freeze before taking the shot and eliminates blurriness.

As with everything creative, there are no hard and fast rules.  These 6 tips can be very helpful for certain circumstances, but photography enthusiasts must determine for themselves the best way to share their world with others. Always remember that a camera is a tool, but you are the artist.

If you are looking for original artwork for your new website, brief the Exchange now!

mimosa creations

Design Inspiration: Heatherwick Studio

// March 19th, 2012 // View Comments // b-inspired, featured

Thomas Heatherwick is well known in Europe for his modern design work on monuments and sculptures.  Heatherwick will host a breathtaking exhibition in his studio to showcase his majestic work. He is among the very few to inculcate the use of engineering in his art. Heatherwick was selected as a Royal Designer at the tender age of 24. He is also the proud holder of the prestigious London Design Medal and the Prince Philip Designers Prize. In recent years he has created amazing works of art that will be on display at his studio for the very first time in his illustrative career. For design inspiration of epic proportions, artists and enthusiasts from around the globe greatly anticipate his exhibit.

How the Heatherwick Studio is Unique

The Heatherwick Studio stands out from the rest because of the studio’s great attention to detail. The designs are based on elegance and integrated designs, as opposed to conventional works. The designers at the Heatherwick Studio are highly concerned with minute details.  From selecting the perfect material to measuring the best parameters, nothing is overlooked. Heatherwick Studio designs have brought about a revolution by incorporating unique patterns and getting involved with industrial collaborations.

The History of the Studio

The Heatherwick Studio was first established by Thomas Heatherwick after he attained his Masters’ degree in Art from the Royal College of Art in the year 1994. He formed his own group with the purpose of working on contemporary designs. Heatherwick raised the standards of the design industry by adding a new dimension. He began to focus on 3D objects. Heatherwick has created many dimensional designs that have received international acclaim in the form of architecture, urban planning, sculpture, and product design.

Memorable Works from the Heatherwick Studio

Some of the renowned works of the Heatherwick Studio include the design and implementation of London’s Rolling Bridge in Paddington Basin. It unique design rolls up into a compact shape once a ship passes through the basin. The Heatherwick Studio Designing is also responsible for the design of a spinning chair and an expandable zip bag. The studio is also responsible for the design of a chalice for the Olympics to be held in 2012, an “endless bench,” and a new London bus.

Exhibition Details

The Heatherwick Studio Exhibition will be held from 31 May to 30 September 2012 at the Porter Gallery. John Heatherwick has always left both his clients and worldwide admirers in awe of his spellbinding designs. The Heatherwick exhibition will show how the process of designing an actual product takes place. Heatherwick has worked on the designs for the last two decades, and his finished pieces will be displayed as completed products or prototypes. The Exhibition fee will also include a complementary visit to the John Madejski Garden. If you’re ready to be inspired, the Heatherwick Studio exhibit is an event you won’t want to miss.

If you are looking for unique artwork, submit a brief now!

Kathleen

7 Tips for Writing an Unforgettable Artist Statement

// February 29th, 2012 // View Comments // Uncategorized, featured

The purpose of your artist statement is to provide the viewers with personal insight about your motivation and inspiration for your collection. When a statement is well-written, it will clarify, justify, or explain the artwork on display. Here are ten tips to help you write an unforgettable artist statement:

1. Don’t Postpone the Writing Process

Don’t save your statement for the night before the exhibit opens. Since a true artist statement is a reflection of every work included in your collection, it should be easy to begin. What made you begin the project in the first place? What inspired you to keep making the art on display? Answering those questions should give you more than enough fuel to get you started. Give yourself plenty of time to craft a statement that represents your work. Be sure to reserve extra time for revisions.

2. Your Words Should Complement Your Work

Is your work whimsical or serious? Is it abstract or realistic? Make sure your prose reflects the personality of the work it complements. Quotes from fellow artists, philosophers, and writers, can also add spice to your statement. If you’re in need of inspiration, then take the time to tour art galleries. Take notes on what made the featured statements successful.

3. Keep the Mumbo Jumbo to a Minimum

Who hasn’t read the statement that overflowed with nonsensical jargon? During my years working in a museum, I read hundreds artist statements. Some were enlightening and increased a viewer’s anticipation. Others simply made museum visitors wonder if the artist had made it past Kindergarten. Keep in mind that the people who read your statement are looking for more insight into what they’ve come to view. A statement does not have to be incomprehensible in order to be artistic. You can make your statement artistic and concise.

4. Consult Your Fellow Artists

You can always have a fellow artist look over your writing in order to determine whether or not you’re communicating your ideas effectively.

5. Make Plenty of Revisions

Editing is a major part of the writing process. Every time you edit your artist statement, focus on refining your ideas and communicating in a more effective way. If you burn out, then take a short break and look for inspiration the same way you would for visual art.

6. Be Prepared to Revise Again in the Future

The statement you prepared for an art show one year ago may not necessarily reflect your present work. Revisit your statement on a regular basis to make sure it still represents the style of your current form of artistic expression.

7. Good Grammar is Essential

Good grammar keeps your statement legible and professional. Spell Check is wonderful feature, but don’t rely on it completely. If your editing skills are shaky, then have a professional edit your work.

Whether you love or hate the writing side of the art business, an artist statement is necessary. When your statement is well-written it will complement your body of work.

If you are looking for unique artwork, brief the Exchange now!

Kathleen

Don’t Miss Color in Space and Time

// February 23rd, 2012 // View Comments // Uncategorized, featured

Color in Space and Time is an exhibition that reveals the creative genius of the Franco-Venezuelan artist, Cruz-Diez. This exhibit is in memory of the fabulous work that the artist created starting in 1940 and throughout his lifetime. The range of works on exhibit include paintings, silk screen prints, chromatic structures that exude innovation, enormous chromatic configurations, and the list goes on. As an artist, Cruz-Diez has always chosen the unconventional path. He ventured into experimenting with offbeat color combinations, street interventions, integration projects built on architectural bases, different light environments, and more. Masterworks that soothe the eye and tickle the nerves of color will be featured at Color in Space and Time.

Hosting Background

The exhibition is being hosted by the Cruz-Diez Foundation in collaboration with the MFAH. The Cruz-Diez Foundation was established in Houston by the family members of the artist. It exists to promote his amazing collection of work.

A Show for Color Lovers Everywhere

This exhibition combines color theory, science, mechanical engineering, and kinetics with the artist’s personal craft. The work of Cruz-Diaz is impossible to categorize.  The complex creations give new life to colors, and personify chromatic impressions. Cruz-Diez nurtures the ambiguity that lies in the color spectrum. The exhibition features works from the collection at the Cruz-Diez Foundation in addition to works from collections in France, England, and Venezuela.

Exhibition Details

The exhibit began in September of last year. It will continue through March 5, 2012. It is being shown in MALBA, Buenos Aires in the country of Argentina. A catalogue has been designed that features a complete profile of the man’s work starting from his teenage years and throughout his adulthood. The catalogue has been published by the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, and it has been distributed by the Yale Press.

Art has a powerful impact on culture and society. Cruz-Diaz had a different perspective when it came to art and colors. Art enthusiasts can share his perspective by visiting Color in Space and Time.

Kathleen

Enjoy Amazing Photography in Helsinki

// February 21st, 2012 // View Comments // featured

As the Helsinki Photography Festival steps into its 12^th year, Europe is eagerly  awaiting an amazing artistic experience. The famous Helsinki festival always inspires new ideas in visitors from all over the world. This event has a well-established reputation for featuring photography that reflects the scenic beauty of Finland and other locations. This year the festival will be held for an entire month. The exhibition can be enjoyed in collaboration with partnering museums and galleries. The organizing committee is a union of artists and photographers. The festival will feature Finnish art and culture, as well as international styles. Organizers are anticipating a larger crowd in 2012 than in previous years.

Theme of the festival

The theme of the Helsinki festival is city and urbanity. This event theme will explore the placid nooks and corners of the city through different photos taken by experienced photographers. The selected photography reflects a unique perspective of the city. The images capture local scenery in a way that encourages visitors to discover new places. Through this event Helsinki will get an opportunity to show its scenic beauty to the foreign visitors as well as to the countrymen. Some Helsinki locals may have a very different way of looking at their city than places like Paris or London. This incredible exhibition uses photography to capture the natural beauty and wonder of the area.

When and Where

The festival will take place from the March 1-30 at the Helsinki city museum and partnering galleries. The cultural office for the City of Helsinki is an active partner.

New Features for 2012

One new feature is the actual theme of the event. To support the theme, some parts of the festival will take place in urban galleries and museums in order to attract the masses towards the urban area of Helsinki. If you have a love for design and art-related events, then this festival would be an excellent choice. The Helsinki Photography Festival 2012 will also feature an exhibition of moving images that will be available for viewers to enjoy. So take the time to enjoy a photography festival that centres on urban beauty. This is an art event you will not want to miss!

If you’re looking for original photography brief the Exchange now! (more…)

Learning From Tuscany

// January 31st, 2012 // View Comments // featured

Tuscan furniture is based on the Italian style of furniture design. Its origins come from the ancient culture and heritage of the Italian city of Tuscany. Tuscany is situated in the northern region of Italy, and it is a simple town in the outskirts of the countryside. The furniture manufactured in this region is inspired by the events that took place during the Renaissance period. The interior pieces being manufactured today have a unique blend of modern trends and the basic folk culture of Tuscany. Hand painted works of art and ancient veneers add to the beauty and finesse of Tuscan furniture design. Contemporary designers can learn a lot from the intricate craftsmanship found in the furniture of Tuscany. Designers also do well to incorporate Tuscan pieces into their interior design projects.

Materials Used for the Furniture of Tuscany

Various kinds of material are used for designing and manufacturing Tuscan furniture. The most frequently used material is wood collected from a wide range of cyprus, fir, and chestnut trees. Other materials that are commonly incorporated into the design include leather, iron, steel and other metals. Wrought Iron is often used to create intricate leaf and vine designs.

The furniture of Tuscany can look a lot like Spanish creations when the piece incorporates leather. Contemporary Tuscan furniture designs include materials like polished marble and tiled mosaics. Interior pieces contain colors that allow ancient Tuscan designs to blend in with a contemporary environment. Thick red marbles add rust undertones, and blue gives the piece of furniture a more contemporary look. Tuscany furniture doesn’t compromise on quality, so keep that in mind as you design your interior project.

Why is the Furniture Design of Tuscany So Popular?

Not only can Tuscan furniture be customized, but it can easily alter the look of various interiors that are found inside and outside of Mediterranean culture. The look of a house or a business that is decorated with Tuscan furniture can be enhanced with the use of complementary accessories. Of course, the personality of the business or the homeowner should be considered before any final design decisions are made. For an extra unique look, designers may also consider incorporating furniture that contrasts with Mediterranean décor within their interior project.

Another reason the furniture of Tuscany is a popular choice for designers is because it is versatile. The furniture of Tuscany has various themes. The themes represent elegant pieces of interior art.  It’s the job of the interior designer, however, to arrange these various pieces into a space with a central design theme.

It’s worth taking the time to appreciate the furniture of Tuscany.  If you are interested in making your interior design project look classy and modern, then try keeping it simple and colorful with furniture from Tuscany. A perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern design makes the furniture of Tuscany an excellent choice for your next project.

A little different from our usual art focus – so let us know what you think!

Kathleen

The Art of Fashion

// January 24th, 2012 // View Comments // featured

Alta Roma is an artistic fashion show with all of the qualities of a traditional cat walk event. In addition to fashion, it features many other events. This amazing show is in collaboration with the famous fashion magazine, Vogue Italia. Alta Roma is aimed at launching new faces in the fashion industry, and it receives its contributions from well established designers and new designers. Exhibitions of clothing, fashion conferences, and photographic galleries are also held at this event.

Where and When

Alta Roma is a biannual event held twice a year during the winter months of January-February and the months of July-August in Rome, the capital city of Italy. Like the previous years, the first event of 2012 will be hosted in Saxia at the Complesso monumentale Santo Spirito. The event has to be scheduled from January 28th to January 31st, 2012.

Enjoy Fabric and Have Fun

This year’s event includes ventures like Ethical Fashion. Ethical Fashion is a project between the Alta Roma Franchise and the International Trade Center. Its purpose is to equip the fashion industry with the best possible tools to maintain standards of the highest quality. This year’s event will also feature an exhibition called Limited/Unlimited. Limited/Unlimited will showcase the talent and enthralling works of new designers in collaboration with Swarovski and Yoox. The Alta Roma will conclude with the presentation “Who is on next?” from Pitti Imagine Filati and Vogue. This popular event will be a highlight for the third year since 2009. “Who is on next?” will feature renowned personalities in the prestigious jury for judging the best designers from the group of upcoming designers in collaboration with Italian magazine Vogue Italia.

A Show Packed with Dazzling Events

Fashion on Paper is an event organized by Maria Luisa Frisa.  Fashion on Paper will engage the fashion-minded individuals in round table discussions. Their discussions will be based on the current artistic events and scenarios in the fashion world. Popular fashion magazines will be organizing musical events along with debates and presentations on fashion. This event will also mark the advent of a new dawn in local fashion.  Mainstream technology will play an important role in Alta Roma in the form of social media and new fashion blogs. The biannual magazine, Artisanal Intelligence, will also be featured. ‘The Tailor Made Tour‘ is another notable feature that will take place during this event-filled fashion show. Features will also include the much anticipated Vogue Talents Corner. The beloved Vogue Talents Corner features 14 budding fashion designers who are taking the art form to a new level.

If you have a passion for the art of fashion, then be sure to get the most out of Rome by taking the time to enjoy The Alta Roma. Mark January 28-31, 2012 on your calendar. You will not want to miss the fashion conferences, clothing exhibitions, and detailed photographic galleries that The Alta Roma is famous for. Visit this amazing event and immerse yourself in the art of fashion. For more information visit: http://www.altaroma.it/