Attracting Artists of all media, from all stages in their Artistic careers, from all over Canada (and the US!), the New Art Festival is a reunion for some, a first testing-of-the artistic waters for others, and for everyone, a fabulous weekend to explore local talent and meet emerging and established artists. So I thought it would be fun to ask 6 friends for a question they’d each love to have answered by an Artist.  Here are a few highlights!

question #1: What makes the New Art Festival so unique?
Dubbed by the organizers as the Festival “where you can see original art and meet the artists” and “Ottawa’s largest non-profit, non-commercial outdoor art exhibition” I think these two attributes make the festival unique from the outset. But I really wanted to see was how the Artists felt!

It was warming, as an Ottawa artist myself, to hear the exhibitors talk enthusiastically of the New Art Festival’s unique ability to showcase diverse talent, and how the Festival successfully reinvented itself from the already popular

Art in the Park into the juried & distinguished New Art Festival almost overnight.  I especially loved how emerging Ottawa sculptor Leah Hamilton mentioned that for her, the Festival served not only as a great place to sell art, but perhaps even more importantly, as a venue to chat with, discover, build friendships with, and trade with other Artists. Leah’s booth was filled with emotive squeals of delight, surprise & shock as visitors came across her brilliantly realistic *nose-in-a-teacup* sculptures, and it’s easy to see from the outset why folks just love this Festival: being there meeting Artists, experiencing the Art is such an interactive joy! Bravo to that!

The calibre of attendees the Festival attracts, both as Artists and patrons, stands out as an unique element to popular Peterborough Artist,  Lucky Jackson. Her charming tent-gallery was brimming over with delighted folks cheered by her whimsical & delightful textural art.  As other Artists I knew came to visit, meet and admire Lucky’s work during our chat, it’s evident that building a sense of community among it’s members is at the heart of this Festival. Lucky noted how refreshing it is, as an Artist, to have the folks of Ottawa “understand and appreciate” her art and she attributed this to the unique crowd the Festival attracts.

I’d whole-heartedly agree. I know it’s a show that many of my peers and I (all with differing Artistic likes and tastes) especially look forward to every year. I love how it’s a mix of styles, with great roving entertainers, yummy organic foods, it’s FREE! and always goes ahead, rain or shine (and there sure was a lot of RAIN again this year! But fear not!) Many would agree that the Festival’s well-organized organizing committee, led by Ottawa Champion-of-the-Arts Bhat Boy , is the strong foundation the unique Festival is built on. So kudos to you, organizers!

question #2: What do you think Ottawa folks are looking for, art-wise?
Beloved and established Greely Artist Beth Levin, whose beautiful abaca paper sculptures have been thrilling Festival audiences for 8 years now,  had great perspective on this question. As she and her daughter casually (yet forcefully!) held down the tent poles of her most-beautiful on-site gallery while the afternoon wind gusted wildly,  Beth talked of how she had seen a welcome change in the Ottawa Art scene over the past few years. How she felt many Ottawans were feeling more and more comfortable venturing beyond the traditional, conservative artforms, say basic landscapes, and welcoming more experimental media with open arms. Beth sees this a  positive change, and I would certainly agree. I think it’s a fine accomplishment indeed where there’s a little something for everyone’s artistic tastes (that‘s hard to do!) at Festivals throughout the Capital, and it’s always nice to hear that Artistic palettes are growing and expanding in our own city. Cheers to that!

As a boost to our own Capital City egos, Uxbridge steel Artist Jean Pierre Schoss articulated that for him, one of the unique attractions of this show is the “highly educated and… well-versed Art crowd” it attracts.  He mentioned that he knew Ottawans to love Eco-forward art (such as his own fabulous recycled steel sculptures!) How refreshing that is! Wonderful stuff, fellow Ottawans! Nice to hear we’re on the right track!

question #3: What kind of Art do you collect?
I’m always fascinated to hear what kind of music Musicians listen to or what kind of sports Athletes play in their spare time. So I was eager to see what kind of Art these fabulous artists collect. I asked Ottawa favourite Sarah Hallman, whose inspiring works in glass, printmaking & textiles make her a perennial favourite at the Festival, what kind of art she likes to collect herself. Sarah explained that she’s drawn to Art that incorporates elements she employs in her own works: strong but subtle tones &  intricate designs. This was a sentiment expressed again and again by Artists that day: they collect the kind of art they make and love. Makes great sense, doesn’t it?! And with Sarah’s beautiful work it’s no wonder I’ve seen her Art in so many friends’ homes over the years: they love to collect intriguing Art, too!

question #4: Tell us a bit about your life as a professional artist.
The Festival does a wonderful job of mixing the new and the established. So I was keen to capture a little glimpse into how  professional artists at the show would describe their lives.

I love the way collaborators Jean Pierre Schoss & Brenda Tucker likened themselves, as part of a community of artists doing Art shows in Ontario,  to roving nomads: making, creating and building on their own paths, then congregating at festivals, like the New Art Festival, throughout the year. They talked warmly of what a wonderful reunion of  friends/other artists each festival is, and the warm support the artistic community lends one another.

That sentiment was evident as I walked through the beautiful meandering paths of tents. I think of well-known artist and Arts organizer Christina Ballhorn, of Loot by Stina B. and Ottawa’s brilliant Workshop Studio & Boutique) whose booth was a popular stop at the Festival again this year, but who I saw also visiting and encouraging numerous other new artists throughout my visit. Or Cynthia O’Brien, inspiring ceramics artist,  who was seen mingling & cheering on her fellow Artists with her wonderful smile and encouraging words, as a visitor and supporter of the Arts in Ottawa. It’s indeed a warm community of folks that congregate here: for Artists from all stages of their careers!

question #5: How do you prepare for an art show like the New Art Festival?
Denial Art’s Daniel Bombardier had a wonderful story to share: he creates his Art in Windsor, ON, throughout part of the year, and then tours the country selling it in between. He’s calling Ottawa  home for a  few days, as part of a whirlwind-paced art show tour across Canada. With 13 stops in just a few months, Daniel’s vivid spray paint art was a busy stop on the afternoon I visited. It was wonderful to see patrons oohing and aahing over his unique style of iconic image Pop Art, a perfect precursor to our Region’s Pop Life show at the National Gallery , on now!

question #6: What new art are you making these days?
For this question, I headed straight to the “making-corner” of the festival beside beautiful Patterson Creek, where folks from the Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group had visiting young artists excited to make real live art, there in the mini-tent-studio amid the pouring rain, and gusting winds. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm of the young crowd working on co-operative painting panels that will be showcased at the nearby Glebe Community Centre. My own little one has enjoyed numerous Arts programs hosted by this Group over the years and I would certainly recommend their fabulous programming! I say bravo to folks  making art at the Festival. It’s wonderful to see Artists in action!

Well there you have it. A few questions with a few Artists at what was, for me, another fabulous New Art Festival. If you’re interested in submitting your work for this popular juried event, look for the 2011 applications here (Ior contact organizer Bhat Boy for more info.

Yay to great Art, and those who celebrate it!

The Capital Craft Market will transform the upper level of Byward Market Square into a vibrant marketplace which will feature an eclectic variety of crafters offering their unique wares. This new show features hand-selected vendors who offer hip, modern and handmade items. Visitors to the show will be able to shop for independently designed and crafted items that can sometimes be hard to find in Ottawa!

The Capital Craft Market is presented and produced by The Craft Co-Op, a new organization in Ottawa whose goal is to foster a stronger craft community in the National Capital Region.

http://ottawa.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20100407/OTT_art_hockey_100407/20100407/?hub=OttawaHome

Story by Terry Marcotte

Chinatown Remixed – 2nd Annual Celebration of ART on Somerset Street WEST .  Join us for the Live Street Performances and Artist Vernissages on Saturday, May 8th from 2:00 – 5:00 pm.

Then, throughout the month of May, local emerging and established artists exhibit their one-of-a-kind art work at various businesses along Somerset Street West. Whether enjoying dim sum or sipping bubble tea in “Chinatown”, you are sure to be surrounded by tasty treats and beautiful works of art.

Walking tour maps of participating businesses are available at www.ottawachinatown.ca .

The Ottawa Guild of Potters is Fired Up to bring you the latest pots and sculptural work, hot from the kiln!  Don’t miss the Spring Sale event with the juried exhibition of recent pieces by over 50 artists from this area.

Between April 15th and 18th you can peruse their work and find out how and why they love to do what they do.

This spring, the recipient of our charity sales will be  The Ottawa Senators Foundation : www.sensfoundation.com   The Hellenic Community Centre, which is helping to sponsor the event, is at 1315 Prince of Wales Drive, south of Baseline Rd., with plenty of accessible parking. 

Check out our website at www.ottawaguildofpotters.ca  for more information on the Guild and our activities.
 

Ottawa ceramics artist Sylvie Parisien shares some insight into her work in this interview:

What does participating in the Ottawa Guild of Potters Sale and Exhibit mean to you as an artisan?

This is a great opportunity for me to showcase my work in the Ottawa area in a venue that is primarily for functional pottery. Though I do produce many functional pieces, my approach tends to be more original, unique and artistic. As I started to sell my work only in the fall of 2008, I am a relative newcomer. My objective is to have my work seen by a broader public and develop additional opportunities to exhibit.

What is the most exciting thing about your preparations for the show?

The most exciting thing for me is my new series of manipulated ceramic forms called Lilith. The vases I created for this series are very sensual and reminiscent of the curved back of a woman. They are as sexy as I have ever seen a vase to be!

If someone was writing a newspaper article about you and your work what are the three most important things that you would like people to know?

First, how passionate I am about what I do. Each piece I bring to life is intimately crafted and meticulously finished. I bring my best to the table.

Second, I love to experiment and this can yield surprising and extraordinary results. I strive to bring together the organic nature of the porcelain with my eye for aesthetics.  I want pieces that are fine and elegant and that communicate with my clients and collectors.

Finally, I aim to bring new work and new designs to each of my exhibitions so that my pieces are truly one-of-a-kind, original, and unique in nature.

What is the price range of your work?

You can purchase some of my pieces for as little as $25.00 for a custom-glazed mug, and as high as $800.00 for a sculptural piece, so there is something for every budget.

Which of your products do you think makes the perfect gift and why? Please describe the product and provide its price.

Any of my pieces makes for a beautiful, unique gift, because the same meticulous care and intricate work goes into each. From a custom-glazed coffee mug at $25.00 to a wood-ash glazed serving bowl ranging from $65.00 to $145.00…any of these would delight the cook in your house looking for something beautiful yet practical. For those looking for something more purely artistic, there’s a large selection of decorative vases and bottles that vary in prices from $65.00 to $158.00 (dependent on the size and the glaze) and sculptural pieces that reach up to $800.

Majic Vase by Sylvie Parisien

Where/how did you learn your trade?

I have worked at crafts from a very young age. I started knitting when I was five years old. I did weaving with my mother from the age of eight, and used to sew most of my clothes when I was a teenager. For ceramics, I studied briefly with master potter Jason L’Abbé and learned the rest myself through self-study and experimentation, applying the motto: “try it and see.”

What inspired you to pursue your art or craft?

From the first moment I started handling clay, I knew I could never go back. One secret weapon I have at my disposal is my husband, who is also very aesthetically inclined, has been very supportive from the beginning, and who provides me with ongoing feedback. I get inspired by everything I see around me, but most often by nature. I have visions or dreams of completed projects, and my job is to then find the right path to bring these to life.

Did you or do you currently have another profession? If so, what was/is it?

 I am an administrator for a small communications firm.

Do you work alone or with a partner?

I work alone, but I lean greatly on my family for inspiration and support.

Have you ever won any awards for your work?

I am still relatively new to exhibiting my work. I consider any acceptance to a juried exhibition an award. To date, I have been juried into such exhibitions as The New Art Festival in Ottawa, the Ottawa’ s Byward market for both my paintings and my ceramic work, the Ottawa Guild of Potters “Symphony” May 2009 Held in Toronto, the Ottawa Guild of Potter Sales 2010, 2009 and 2008 and now, One of A Kind in Toronto.

Peacock bowl

Do you have any interesting stories to share about your work? Is there something new or exciting you are creating specifically for the next show?

My latest direction is called the Lilith Series. I dedicate it to all women who strive to succeed. It is inspired by the form of the Cally Lilly. However, Lilith is originally a biblical figure; a woman who would not obey her husband. So this series of vases is as elegant and playful as they are sensual. It’s a reflection of the passion that carries me and pushes me to keep making new, wonderful forms that will delight my clients.

Are you a member of a regional or provincial art or craft organization? If so, which ones?

I am a member of the Ontario Craft Council, Fusion, and the Ottawa Guild of Potters.

What gives you the greatest amount of inspiration?

My family is definitely my greatest source of strength. My inspiration starts with them, wanders around the garden, and then ends with them.

Check out The Potters Guild website at www.ottawaguildofpotters.ca  for more information on the Guild and their activities.

Sylvie Parisien’s Sun Slip ceramics website: http://sunslipceramics.blogspot.com/

Mechanic, Westmoreland, California, 2003 - Tony Fouhse

Tony Fouhse does not remember photographing me in November 2008. When I mentioned this to him before he spoke at his current exhibition, American States, at Exposure Gallery on Thursday, April 1, 2010, he squinted at me for a second, then apologized and explained that he shoots seven people a week. Luckily, I remember him: during my shoot with him he was funny, engaging, creative, and even called me his ‘bitch’ several times to keep the mood light and help me relax under the cyclopean stare of his lens. He also shared with me his then-recent portfolio from a summer roadtrip and some of his ongoing work with Ottawa’s Lowertown addict community. His photos were incredibly raw, human, portraits, and his stories were animated, interesting, and poignant. Based on that experience, when I heard Tony was speaking about the people and places behind the photos in his exhibition I jumped at the opportunity to listen to him talk again.

I clearly failed to register in Fouhse’s memory. And why should I?—A white, 30-something, middle-class Canadian male squeezing in 20 minutes with a photographer between checking his email on his iPhone. My encounter with him was a forgettable corporate headshot photoshoot: the type of gig that pays a photographer’s bills but doesn’t feed the creative soul.  As Fouhse later explained, our first meeting was the exact type of quotidian work that finances his forays into the small towns and desolate landscapes of post-industrial America where he captures the lives that now populate the exhibition’s frames. These trips are clearly Fouhse’s passion: whether exploring the Passaic River through New Jersey swampland, motel parking lots in the deep South, or the barren deserts of California, he loves to talk to people, learn their stories, and take their pictures. In Fouhse’s words, “I don’t have a GPS: I like to get lost.”

Thematically, American States delves into images of an American heartland blasted by a loss of manufacturing jobs: yellowing signs, crumbling edifices, boarded-up windows, rusting shipping containers, and acre after acre of bleached concrete. Against the jaundiced backdrop of the ruins of small towns, Fouhse shows us the flags, flames, fences, and firearms of a fading empire.

Gas Station, Mecca, California, 2003 - Tony Fouhse

As we are drawn into the narrative, we look closer at the people in these landscapes—blacks, whites, Latino, Indian, young and old, male and female—the melting pot of races and cultures that weave the tapestry of the American story. Individuals bound together into a nation. Fouhse states that Americans as a population are as conservative, insular, and xenophobic as we expect. However, at the personal level, when presented with a lively, and perhaps bold, Canadian armed with a portfolio of portraits and a large-format camera, they are warmer, more engaging, and candid than the people going about the business of their daily lives on the streets of Ottawa and Toronto.

Fouhse divulges that he seeks out the basketball courts, tire shops, and gas stations—places where people have a lot of idle time and patience to indulge a curious photographer with an accent that is neither too foreign nor too familiar. He sets up his camera and dives under the isolating darkness of its hood: for a few moments his subjects live centred in his viewfinder in images that tell us something about the who and the where. The why remains elusive.

A shutter clicks.

In the fraction of a second it takes light to travel through his lens and chemically burn a seven-dollar square of film, Tony Fouhse becomes more than a photographer. He is a biographer of the people who populate the peripheral vision of a nation. They tell him their stories, and Fouhse remembers them.

Tony Fouhse’s American States is showing at Exposure Gallery, 1225 Wellington Street West (2nd Floor, above Thyme & Again) until May 1, 2010. For more information contact exposuregallery@thymeandagain.ca.

For more information on Tony Fouhse visit www.tonyfoto.com

David Hicks—Ottawa dweller. Marketing consultant. Dad. Dog owner. Handyman. Gadget guy. Photographer. Coffee Drinker. Scotch sipper. [Not necessarily in that order] Blogs at www.davidhicks.ca and spends too much time on Twitter

Digitally Analogue

Listen here

This week, local artist and winner of the 2009 Brucebo Fine Arts Scholarship, Amy Schissel explains to us how her art represents the digital ideal using analogue methods.

Presented to the viewer is a surface on which the language of painting is altered by the influence of digital technology, acting as a lens through which to translate a current understanding of space. Within this arena, my most recent work aims to operate on a level of hybrid/ abstract signs to track global interconnectivity while engaging in the discourse of abstract painting.

Amy is exhibiting her art at The Cube gallery until april the 25th, to find out more go here

The arts show that puts you in the picture.

Showcasing the newest and best in local art, artists, events and authors.

Want to know who’s who and what’s what in the local arts scene?

Then listen here!

Episode 1: To coin a tune

In the first episode of the Angry Arts show, we talk to local artist Gary Corcoran who has among many other notable works, designed coins for the Royal Canadian Mint.

Gary Corcoran

Gary has done extensive artwork for the Canadian Wildlife Federation. He has also won the national artprint 2002 portfolio competition organized by Ducks Unlimited as well as the organization’s 2001 and 2002 poster contests.

One great portfolio piece was creating two designs for the Royal Canadian Mint: the ground-breaking 2003 launches of the Niagara Falls and Aurora Borealis $20 holographic silver coins.

For more examples of Gary’s work check out garycorcoranarts.com

. . .

We also talked to local Ska band, “The Toughtones” about what it means to “skank”.

The Toughtones

This local ska band has gathered a large online and national following for their personality and eclectic beats.

They are:

Philip Caunter
Bass / Vocals

Kieran Davidson
Saxophone / Vocals

Jared Davidson
Drums / Vocals

Jordan Robb
Trumpet / Vocals

Joshua Viljoen
Guitar / Vocals

You can see “The Toughtones” performing live at Club SAW in downtown Ottawa on the 23rd of April.

Find them at MySpace

Enjoy!

Opening ceremony: Friday, April 23, 2010, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. (reception at 7:30 p.m.)

Exhibition:  April 24 to April 30, 2010, 9 a.m.to 6 p.m.

Location: Department of Visual Arts, 100 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa.  Map

This exhibition allows the public to share with graduates their passion for
artistic creation in the visual arts.  A collection of media, painting, photography and sculpture.

For a preview, visit http://uottawagradshow.com/