If you weren’t able to attend this year’s four-day Juried Contemporary Art Fair The Artist Project 2013, don’t fret. I am here to fill you in on all the highlights from the opening night and let you in on some must-see upcoming local artists that stood out at the fair.
Going on its sixth year and stronger then ever, The Artist Project celebrated another exciting show featuring original works from over 200 carefully juried, independent contemporary artists. Artists from a variety of geographic and creative backgrounds converged and connected with patrons looking to get a glimpse of tomorrow’s Art Stars. From seasoned collectors and first time art buyers, to gallerists and interior designers, visitors found this art fair to be a rare opportunity to meet and purchase work directly from Canadian and International artists.
This year, the show revealed some exciting features, such as the Untapped Emerging Artists Competition, which awarded artists a FREE space at the exhibition, as well as the opportunity for artists to participate in a professional-level art fair where they could showcase their work to gallerists, collectors and art enthusiasts! The Faces Competition challenged artists to create a piece of art based on their interpretation of the theme, Faces. Selected by a panel of judges, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners received cash prizes, and visitors were able to vote for their favourite entry in the People’s Choice Award. There was also a fun SONY Full-Frame Studio and Installation Zone where you were able to explore large-scale sculptures, conceptual art, and installations from the country’s most talented contemporary artists.
The opening evening was definitely abuzz with excitement, from a well-designed lounge where you could grab a refreshing cocktail sponsored by our very own Slava, to the awesome live graffiti mural done by artist Jose-Gabriel. Lots to see, lots of pieces to fall in love with.
Some key artists I definitely found very eye-catching that stopped me in my tracks were Ivan Alifan and his large-scale haunting faces that you couldn’t help but become zoned in on, Sarah Beattie and her photographic-like quirky and intense portraits of people in mid-sneeze, and Xiaojing Yan, who showed a beautiful face-to-face installation using silk painting and Plexiglas.
For more information on The Artist Project and to keep up with new and exciting news, visit them here:
The Artist Project Website
Facebook: TAP
Twitter: TAP
Looking for something to do this weekend? Take a stroll over to the AGO and check out Patti Smith’s Camera Solo show. It’s on until May 19, 2013, and is a lovely exhibit showcasing her polaroid work in addition to collaborations with her good friend Robert Mapplethorpe.
Have fun and HEART ART!