Sneak Previews

Hi faithful followers of the blog... due to a tight schedule for July's first Friday, we will be changing out a few shows early so if you are reading this, you will get a sneak preview this Friday at the art-walk from 6-9pm.

(Wear your painting clothes!)
(Seriously!)

NEWS ALERT! Beep Beep Beep

Today we were notified that an article we created to inform you guys about our Art-Walk on the Plainfield Area Trib Local website, has been promoted to our area's top news! If you go to their page, you can see our event at the top of this friday's event section!

Woot Woot!

June Group Show Images

Here is the link to a few more images of the Group Show in June's Art-walk:

https://picasaweb.google.com/114813270918339903970/PlainfieldGroupShowPics?authkey=Gv1sRgCIy8mYPdhd3WKw&feat=email

More on Interactive Art

In cohesion with the question above, and with the mission of actions it has been provoking out in the real world... I was thinking about drawing in the public to create a collaborative painting and then working towards putting the work TO WORK by generating funds for "something."  But, what will that "something" be? 

We thought at first that we would put money from sales of the public work towards prizes for a future show in the boonies, but then someone brought to our attention a better idea...

How about if we take the money we make from the sales of the public painting and donate it to the Riverfront Project in Plainfield?  THAT is a great idea, we think... public art benefiting the future public!  What more could you ask for!?!

Painting on the canvas will be free of course, and maybe we can even just put out a little donation bucket just in case people don't want to spend money on purchasing a 1-foot square of the finished product, but then again, who wouldn't want to be a part of this historical event and grab a slice of it for themselves as a momento?  I know I want one!

How about your thoughts on this one now too!??!

One more thing... if you don't mind, please copy the url at the top and paste it as your status on FB as we are really working on spreading the word about this Art-walk... which is REALLY doing very well!!!  Thank you for being a part of it and for following us in our endeavor to save the arts, build the arts, and beautify everything we happen upon!

Juried show with prizes?

Hmmmm....  Thought to ponder.

We are thinking... thinking... thinking...

Imagine a room lined with blank canvas (maybe with a few lines on it), drop-cloths on the floor, various paint buckets and brushes and raincoats (plastic smocks).  You see a prompt and are let loose in the room only for a few minutes to make your mark on this ENORMOUS canvas. 

We are thinking of interactive, public art for July's art-walk.  What if we allow the public to come in and paint this gigantic roll of canvas then have the option of purchasing a 1-foot square of it for only $10 so that we can raise funds to offer prizes for a juried art exhibition in September?  What if...???  We think it sounds pretty cool.

The painting would, of course, only happen during Friday's Art-walks and last one month.

Thoughts?

First Friday, May 6, 2011

 

Click on the photo above to link you to the photo album of the FIRST ART-WALK IN PLAINFIELD!!!

Printable Application for Artists and PRESS!!!

Hi all!  While I sort through all the photos and try to figure out a way to get them organized for web viewing for you all, I have found a way to put a printable Artist Application on our website.

http://www.artcubestudios.com/Links.html

AND...

We were featured in Mayor Collins' Column in the Enterprise!  Here's a photo image of the column...

Hi all... I am going to try to figure out how to post photos in groups so if you see a bunch of stupid posts for a bit, just hang in there and thanks for your patience. :)

Hi everyone!

Here is a current map for your walking pleasure this Fabulous First Friday evening.

All the new shows are up and ready for viewing and WOW... they are pretty cool... we are very proud of these shows and very excited for the artists involved!

We are still looking for more artists for July through September and are specifically interested in artists that work three-dimensionally and high school student works.  Here are the applications:

Professional Artist Application:

Here is the High School Student Application:

Feel free to call us if you have any questions... we're nice, so don't worry, just call.  =)

See you Friday!

First Friday!

We are all set for this coming First Friday! New shows and a new space! Spread the word and see you soon! :)

Computers, Sculptures, and High School Art Students

Three things on this dreary, edgy morning:

1.  I have no idea why I am not seeing the background image of our blog.  I hope it comes back.  I'll check later.  What is everyone else seeing?  I'm just seeing blue.

2.  We need Sculptors!  Who out there works 3-dimensionally?  Anyone?  Beuller?  Beuller?  We have so many applicants working in painting, drawing and now photography, but where are the sculptors... come out of the woodworking, sculptors!  We want to showcase your art!  Ceramics, wood, metals, glass, found objects, whatever... just get it here!

3.  If you or someone you know is a High School Art Student... we want their work!  Let's get these young, aspiring artists charged and geared up for their future art career!  Let's get them involved!  This is an incredible opportunity for them and we only have TWO STUDENTS!  Do they not want to show their art in a professional venue?  What gives?  Spread the word and let's set up a High School Art Student Exhibition... maybe we can even give it a fancy name... comment with your thoughts.  Please share our requests for art on your FB page, with your peeps, over the phone, through the email, in texting form... whatever!  We appreciate you spreading the word about Art in the Boonies and being an art advocate!

On a side note, our art-walk has been very well attended!  If you have yet to see what we're doing, you should make the trek and get out here for the end of the first shows.  (Well, we did have to change out the postcard show early, sorry.  But consider it a sneak preview of June's shows to come if you head out and see the new work this Friday in that ONE gallery.)

A door closed, A window opened

Well, we are mourning the loss of a great gallery space today.  The Heritage Professional Center Gallery will be open for its last exhibition date this Friday, May 27th from 6-9pm.  We love that space and will miss it much... thanks for the good times, HPCG! 

On the plus side, we are celebrating the birth of a NEW space... which we have yet to name.  It will make its exhibition debut on First Friday, June 3rd from 6-9pm.  It too is a great space and we are so thankful and happy for it!

Stay tuned for more information and have a wonderful week!  SEE YOU FRIDAY!

Don't be Shy

It's Amanda...

It is very interesting to see true artists being pulled out of the woodwork.  I have been receiving inquiries about exhibiting as an artist in this summer's art-walk via e-mails, phone calls and walk-ins at the studio.  I tell everyone the same thing:  visit our blog, here's the application, please submit your images if you are interested.  It's fun to see only some of those applications come back to me and then of those "some" it is interesting to get only a few phone calls when I request they call to make an appointment to bring in the artwork and read the contract.

I wonder if those are the people that are serious about art... or maybe those are just the "do-ers" of the crowd... or perhaps they are just the ones that are ready to exhibit and the others are still gathering their pieces together... or maybe some are just too shy or not confident enough about their artwork.  I don't know... but it's fun to see who gets pulled up and out and into a gallery.  I will say this, if you are asked to make a phone call and bring in your work... that's a good thing.

We might be losing a great space in June, but on the bright side, there are still more spaces we can approach in hopes to meander our way through the town over the summer.  I'm really having a lot of fun with this art-walk... though I must say... as enjoyable as it is to run it, it's not the same as taking a night off and going to shows that I have not seen before.  Not that one is better than the other; It is just a completely different and new experience.  I like both.  I hope that all of you are really enjoying the other side of this art-walk, because after all, it is for YOU.  =)

14

We may only have 14 followers on this blog, but there were HUNDREDS out and about at our first Art in the Boonies Art-Walk Plainfield!!!!  Thanks to all of you that joined us in celebrating creativity on Friday, May 6.  The galleries will be open again this Friday and every Friday from 6-9pm... so join us!

Meanwhile, here are a few images of the exhibitions with perusing people:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1886209347968.2109039.1023430188&l=6d101b9141

Blog Neglect

Hello Boonie Buddies!

Oops... While I have been watching birds hatch in a nest off my back door, I have neglected all the fine followers here... and for that, I apologize.   Here's an update from "the informer."  (at least I beat Christine to the next post, eh?)

The shows are up and if you happen down DesPlaines Street, you will notice its new glow!  (literally)  And here's a sneak preview... just for you:

 We are now in a couple publications for your reading pleasure:
1.  http://plainfield.patch.com/articles/art-in-the-boonies-to-bloom-in-the-burbs 
2.  http://triblocal.com/plainfield/calendar/2011/05/06/art-in-the-boonies-art-walk-plainfield/

The big event kick-off is in 2 days!!!  2 DAYS!!!  OMG!!!  Only 2 more days to throw this whole thing together!  No sweat... thanks to all these amazing artist helpers!  I love the art community!  What a community it is!  Everything is coming together and we now just have to get the final details ironed out (and of course, since we've gotten the pop-up spaces all set up and ready to go, the Cube has been a little pushed aside, so we still have to get that space organized and in order).

See you Friday!

Bionic Snufalupogous here... Yes, Christine, I found out you have revealed my secret of bionic-ness!  Was it the leg that gave it away?  LOL

I'm trying to figure out how to get us some press about this event... I guess there IS something that I am not good at and that is writing and sending press releases... kind of a big one.  =(  Whatever.  At least I have heard that lots of people will be showing up on that FIRST FRIDAY!  Be there or be square... even if you didn't get that memo.

We officially have all the spaces filled for May's event and we are booking artists like crazy for the summer months.  Though, I have to say, I am a bit astonished that we have yet to set anything up for any of the local high schools.

For those of you having issues with getting the app off this blog, you can also grab one off the fb page:  Click here.

Paint May Look Pretty, but it Doesn't Taste Good

Christine here again.  Like that lingering doubt after you buy a watch from a guy in a trenchcoat- I just won't go away that easily.

  I've been alternating between watching Anthony Bourdain on tv (No, he's not paying me.  It's just a good show!), helping update the Crows Feet Studios website and working on finishing up a painting that I've been putting off.  I swear, acrylic paints will be the death of me.  Actually, my workload will be the death of me.  Acrylic paints won't actually kill me unless I consume a LOT of them.  Heh.  I just remembered that Van Gogh tried to kill himself once by eating his own paints.  Eeeeewwww.  Hey, speaking of good ol' Vincent, I have print of  his "Crows Over Wheatfield" above my fireplace.  But I digress....

  So the day is almost upon us.  May 6th! Are you excited? Elated? Scared? Confused?  Itchy?  C'mon,  you can tell me. So far I am still retaining bladder control, but I am definately stoked.  Have no doubts; this artwalk will be very, very cool.  And it will just get better as we get the word out more, get more artists to apply, and this thing gets bigger and bigger.  Amanda is busting her hump to make all this happen, and I don't know how she does it.  I think she might be bionic.  But don't tell anyone.

  I can't wait to see all the galleries set up!   I can't wait to meet the artists!  We'd really like to hear some of your ideas and thoughts about the art-walk.  I know many of you have been to art-walks in other cities; they all have a different feel with a slightly different way of going about it.  What elements do you like?  What kind of artworks would you like to see-  scupltures, still life paintings, abstracts, found object art?  Tell us! This is all for you, after all.   Use that comment box!  Give us your input.  That's your homework assignment for this evening, kids.  Grammar and neatness counts, and no copying off your neighbor.

  I hate to say it, but the Red Bull is wearing off.  I need to find something stronger, or at least a Red Bull that comes in gallon jugs.  I'm gonna finish this painting tonight or  I'll....well, who am I kidding?  I'm so tired that I could be typing the lyrics to Freebird and I wouldn't even know it.  Good thing we got the Crows Feet Studios website updated already.

Goodnight, kids. The painting will have to wait.  And remember- when you're being chased by a bear, you don't have to outrun the bear.  You just have to outrun the guy next to you. 

Think about it. :)


http://www.crowsfeetstudios.com/





 

Oh Yeah... It's on!

We have been getting artist applications and the word is spreading like a wildfire!  Sweetness.

On Friday, May 6, we are tentatively planning to have 9 different art shows in the buildings listed on the map posted in one of our previous blogs.  9 shows in 4 spaces... that's right, people... 12345678...9 opportunities for artists!  5 in the Heritage Professional Center Gallery (HPCG), 2 in the Village Center Gallery (VCG), 1 in the Chicago Street Gallery (can you guess the acronym for that one?) and 1 in Art Cube Studios.  Artists have been applying, getting accepted and dropping off works!  We have 2 shows installed already and are well on our way to a successful first art-walk! 

This is just a little bit exciting... where are the Depends; we might just wet our pants it is so exciting!  OK... maybe that was a little overboard... or maybe not, you decide.

See you there!

-the Boonie girls

ARTWALK MAPS are in!

Feel free to print from here or pick up your copy of this map at Art Cube Studios.  We will have specific show information on the back of the map when the date gets closer.  For now... here's a map of galleries:

Red Bull and Nachos

Christine here again.  No, that's okay-- don't get up.

  Posters are passed out, maps are being made, locations are being prepped, antacids are being consumed.  Still got a lot of work to do, kids.  But we're tough, we can take it.  We're so tough, we break Tonka toys.

  Trust me, this art walk is not something you just throw together in a couple weekends. Still, it will be worth it.  I mean, this never existed in our town before- and in a few weeks it will be here all summer.  Hope ya'll have cleared your schedules for it!  I know I have, with the exception of the 6th.  I am SO upset that I've got a trip to LA scheduled for the 6th of May!  Gotta visit some artist buddies of mine, and this trip was scheduled and paid for long before we had a date for the art walk...doh!  Still, my large and responsible husband will be at the artwalk to represent Crows Feet Studios.  I've coached him on how to tie his shoes and not use his sleeve as a napkin, so he should be ok.  :)  I'm kidding of course- he is reasonably competent, believe it or not!

  I've actually just taken a break from making the maps for this thing, so people won't be wandering around aimlessly, hoping to catch some art.  See?  Got it covered. The maps will be on our blog for all to see and download.  Also, if you walk around downtown, you will see many posters advertising the art walk on windows, doors and counters of businesses.  Check 'em out.   The posters- AND the businesses. 

  Man, I've got SO much to do.  Besides the art walk, I've got 2 paintings I'm working on, 2 portraits, a mural, and designing a logo/t-shirt/poster for a social club in Canada.  I need more Red Bull and nachos.  Well, sleep is for the weak, I always say.  This darned day job gets in the way, as well.  Oh wait-  I've got children, too....almost forgot.

 I think I need to lie down for a while, or at least control my blood pressure. I think nachos will help with that.  Aren't nachos good for you?  I think they cover at least 3 of the 4 food groups.  And maybe fiber.  Plus they taste really good, and go with almost anything.   Mmmmm...... Okay, gotta go.  I have to concentrate on nachos now.

To quote Michelangelo, "Believe it or not, I can actually draw."  Hee.  I like quoting dead guys.  Later!

http://www.crowsfeetstudios.com/

We're in the Village E-newsletter!

YAY!!!  Thanks, Plainfield, for putting the word out there to everyone about this exciting event!  Click on the link below to see what was written... There's also an art contest listed in this issue:

http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=98d05a903edbfe555268f748f&id=18d4503e8c&e=9a9659429f

Is anybody reading our blog?

Comment with anything if you are reading our blog.
Thanks.

=)

The Maps are Coming!

We don't have them printed just yet, but they will be here in time for the first art-walk.  We will post them when we have them and hard copies will be available at Art Cube Studios and then we will have them to hand out at each one of our gallery spaces... meanwhile... here are the 4 gallery spaces we have for May:

Art Cube Studios
24044 W. Main St.

Village Center Gallery
24047 Lockport St.
(This is located on DesPlaines St, next to the Chamber office)

Heritage Professional Center Gallery
24023 W. Lockport St.
(This is located in the basement of the Heritage Professional Center, entrance on Lockport St.)

Chicago Street Gallery
24118 W. Chicago St. Unit 210
(Located upstairs)

High School Juried Art Exhibitions

I'm not going to say there will be prizes, but I'm not going to say there will NOT be prizes either... working on it and we shall see.

If you are a High School Student (as of right now), then you are eligible for this contest.  Here is an entry form for you to print.  If you have any questions, please feel free to call Amanda at 815.254.9975 and she will answer all your questions... she's nice, don't freak out if you have to call.  Dana over there is nice too.  But that Debby... watch out.  Just kidding, she's probably the nicest of those three bears over there. 

So... get in gear, get happy, get excited and become part of Plainfield's history cuz we're makin' it!  =)

Intimidated Aspiring Artists

It's Amanda (I feel like Snufalupogous when I write that... all dark, sad and gloomy... compared to Christine, who I learned in her last post as hair.).

We've come across some rather small hurdles while trying to put this art-walk together.  Some of them were just little road humps while a few of them seemed to be a bit bigger, but seriously nothing large we've had to overcome... yet.

I've noticed that since we put out a call to artists, more professional artists are tending to ask for shows... artists that are very active in an art scene and eager to take advantage of the opportunity to have another exhibition to put that extra line on the resume... which makes for some cool shows, but my question would be... why are we attracting artists that already have experience and who have no problem securing shows in existing, well-known, permanent galleries?  And, why are the amateur or aspiring artists not applying?  It seems backwards to me given the spaces we have in the town we're in... so here's what I have come up with:

First, I guess it would make sense that the more experienced artists would apply because they are used to applying and they have already been through the process of going from beginning to intermediate or advanced as an exhibiting artist.

Second, more experienced artists understand that a chance to show is a chance to show... the more shows under the belt, the better.  It's that experience that moves an artist up the ladders to the bigger venues with their art because with each exhibition comes experience with showing, pricing and talking about work to the public. 

So...
If you are or know an aspiring artist who really would like an opportunity to show their work and maybe even sell their work and possibly might even have a desire to be a "real artist," then I have a few words for you as I am a professional artist, show my work on a consistent basis, and am active in any art scene that surrounds me....

1.  Overcome the fear of rejection.  You made your work for a reason, and it is what it is.  Enjoy it.  Savor it.  Build on it.  Share it.
2.  Do not let the application intimidate you.  Applications, rules, regulations, etc... they are all part of the culture of Western civilization and again... it is what it is.  Think about what you truly want for yourself and your art and maybe even your artistic career and make a decision based on that.  I'm not saying ignore what the application has to say, I'm just saying not to let it intimidate you out of a really great opportunity to show.  If you have questions about the application, just call me and ask.
3.  If dates conflict:  Artists are resourceful and full of problem-solving skills... figure it out, give me a call and present the opportunities.  You'd be surprised how we like to support the arts and become flexible to do so.


Hope to see those applications soon!  We've created the opportunities... now you take it an run with it!  We are SO excited about this Art-Walk... it's gonna be a blast!  See you there!

So You Wanna be an Artist...

It's Christine again.  You know, the Crows Feet Studios chick with the hair.

Pop-up galleries, art-walks, free snacks-- hey, throw in some fireworks and some elves giving everyone presents and this May 6th could be the best day EVER.  Amanda is making this thing happen, and it will be huge.  For those of you who don't know yet, that's the first day of Plainfield's art-walk, and it will be beyond cool. The magic hour is at 6pm, and it goes 'til 9 pm.  There is no excuse for not being there.  I don't care if you're doing time, or if you're trapped underneath something heavy- just be there.

But what about the artists themselves?  I'm sure there are PLENTY of talented, amazing artist out there (and you know who you are) that are just itching to get their stuff out in the public eye.  Well, stop watching German impressionist films and apply for the artwalk!  C'mon, the application form is right on the previous blog! You have no excuse!  Don't make me use peer pressure on you.  Look, maybe you might be a little hesitant because you're unfamilar with Plainfield, or artwalks, or maybe you just don't like contact with other humans.  Have no fear, I will help you make the right decision.

Yup, you guessed it.  Here's another one of my famous lists that I put in my silly blogs.

"Why should I- a talented artist- display my work at this Plainfield Art-walk?"
  Because hundreds and hundreds of people will see it!  Because they will want to buy it!  Because Plainfield is cool! Because I told you to!!

"I've never displayed my work in an art-walk. Is this very different from displaying my work in normal gallery?"
  No, not really.  That location may change month to month due to the nature of a pop-up gallery, but it's a very similar situation.  People walk in, they are amazed by your work, and they leave-- speechless, teary-eyed and with a totally different perspective on life.  Just like when I play "House of the Dead" at Dave & Busters.

"What if the other artists don't like me?"
  Nonsense! That won't happen.  All the artists are very nice, respectful, and totally without anger management issues (as far as we know).  We are here for a common goal, and we all play nicely together.  There will even be group hugs, I think.  My husband says that he'll pass on the group hugs, though.

"Okay, Christine.  I am convinced that you are right and I am foolish for waiting another minute to apply for this artwalk.  What do I do now?"
  Well, Amanda laid out the requirements on a previous blog titled "Let's curate some shows".  The application form is on the previous blog, and you can contact Amanda at artintheboonies@yahoo.com. Or, you can contact her through Art Cube Studios.  Don't be shy, don't listen to the voices in your head- apply now! C'mon, all the cool artists are applying.  You want to be like them, don't you?  (That was my clever use of peer pressure.)

Gotta sleep now.  Red Bull and nachos can only keep me conscious for so long.

And remember kids- "This is my art, and it is dangerous."  You will impress me if you can identify that quote. :) 

Adios.

http://www.crowsfeetsudios.com/

Let's curate some shows!

It's the boring one, Amanda.
First off, I cannot compete with the blogging genius of my esteemed artsy counterpart, Christine... and for that, I am sorry.  However, I CAN give you some good news, which is the second part...

The good news is that our inspectors gave us the "go-ahead" with the galleries to open MAY 6!

While we still have a lot of work to do to get this walk on its way... we are ready to proceed!

A call to artists... if you are following our blog and would like to be considered as an artist for this artwalk, please email the following to artintheboonies@yahoo.com:

• Your first and last name
• 5 images of your work
• Artist Statement
• Resume

Artists chosen will be called in for an interview to review the contract and requirements to participate.

Spread the word!  And Save the Date... FRIDAY, MAY 6... 6-9pm!!!!!

Woohoo! We're getting an artwalk! Now what?

Christine here again from Crowsfeet Studios.  Stand back, keep your eyes on your own paper and let the blogging commence.

Okay, so we are going to have an artwalk, we have a bunch of artists showing their stuff, and we have a bunch of cool buildings to exhibit in!  Exciting, no?  Darn right, it is. So you may have some questions about the pop-up galleries and the walk, since this whole thing is pretty new to Plainfield.  All questions will be answered, all fears allayed.

"How should I dress for this artwalk?  Is there proper artwalk attire?" I hear you ask.  Well, don't worry.  Almost any form of clothing is acceptable, but loincloths and HAZMAT suits are strongly discouraged.  However, I personally have nothing against "snuggies".

"Will there be beverages and food?"  Yes, there will. On the first Fridays, snacks and drinks will be available for all, not to mention the local restaurants and pubs will have their usual selection of tasty morsels and thirst-quenching potables. However, there will be no tailgating, shindigs, wingdings, or hootnannies. Also, no bungee-jumping or sword swallowing.  They just cause problems at artwalks...

"Will I be able to purchase art at the artwalk?"  Of course!  But not all art will be for sale.  Also, artists will not perform magic tricks or balancing acts or ride unicycles.  Well- they might, but it would take a really big tip.

"Where will all the galleries be?  Will there be some sort of map or flyer to guide us on our journey of artistic expression?"  You betcha.  Working on them right now, in fact.  All the times, dates, and locations will be laid out for you.  And maybe a word-find and one of those illusions where you cross your eyes at a colorful pattern and see a unicorn.  Okay, I made that up.

That's all for now, kids.  Amanda and I will keep you updated, so never fear. Tell your friends, your enemies- anyone who will listen, that the Plainfield artwalk is coming in May.   Trust me, it will be even better and more exciting than reasonable prices for gasoline!

Live long and prosper.  Later!

-Christine

http://www.crowsfeetstudios.com/

Moving Right Along...

Does it count if you give yourself a solo show in your own pop-up gallery?
I'm gonna go with a "no" on that one, but still, it might be fun.  Perhaps I should search outside of "the boonies" for that.

Meanwhile... I was just accepted into the Naperville Women's Club Art Fair in June and the Art Fair on the Square in Lake Forest in September!!!  So, that's a bit exciting and motivating to produce.


www.amandachakravarty.com

And... on the pop-ups...
We shall find out tomorrow whether we have a gorgeous, window encased, street-side space as our 5th potential gallery.  Then... Monday is the day we find out if the village is going to allow us to open our doors on May 6.

SO...

EVERYONE THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS!!!

-Amanda

"The Boonies"

The Boonies: 

1. noun.  a remote and undeveloped place. (From boondocks.) :  He lives out there in the boonies.

It does not mean a bad thing.  I have already been thrown a couple looks as if I am putting down the society in which I reside simply be using the term "boonies"... but let me be clear... I do not feel that way at all and I don't feel it is anyone's right to judge people's habitat decisions - to each his/her own.  I cherish the history of this town, the stories it holds, the character of its aesthetics and so much more.  If I wanted to live in a highly developed area, I would have chosen to live in Chicago or some other heavily populated and dense city.  But I CHOSE to live in Plainfield for a reason, many reasons in fact.  The name "Art in the Boonies" is appropriate for what we are doing and is simply a metaphor.

Most popular artists will find themselves showing in spaces in large cities or at least in very developed areas.  Plainfield is not a highly developed area, and in my opinion, that's a good thing.  It is a growing village, one that holds core values at its heart and builds on those values to better the communities within it... with this comes potential... and those potentials are limitless.  In the artist circles I circulate in, we refer to ourselves as living in "the Boonies" because this type of town is not a town you would find original works of famous artists displayed.  Nor is it a town in which I would normally seek to attain a solo exhibition or even juried art shows. You have to go to the city to see works by the well-known artists and diverse displays of art forms... and because of that, as a small town artist, opportunities are limited as the art world is a very competitive scene.  THUS... we are living in the boonies if you ask an artist.

We are starting to become a very unique and attractive area within the delicate balance of staying small enough to stay unique and large enough to be desirable.  Our "Art in the Boonies" Art-Walk is intended to help this growth in a variety of ways:
1.  Giving spaces to artists that would otherwise not have space to display and sell their artworks.
2.  Bringing patrons to the businesses and foot traffic through otherwise vacant spaces in the downtown area.
3.  Creating cultural awareness within our communities and our surrounding areas through art.
4.  Providing free events for everyone... something to do... for all ages.

This isn't going to happen successfully without the encouragement and willingness to work together, and so I can't thank enough the village administration and the building owners who have already graciously agreed to allow us to inhabit their vacant spaces throughout the summer as pop-up galleries doing business through Art Cube Studios in collaboration with Crows Feet Studios.

So, save the date because we are hoping to launch this May!  And... tentatively, here is some information:


First Fridays:  The first Friday of each month.  Designated as the opening of a new show in each gallery.  Artist Reception from 6-9pm.  The big hooplah... the night not to be missed.
But, if you do miss it:
Artwalk:  All galleries will be open every Friday through September (pending available space) on Fridays from 6-9pm.  (and also possibly Tuesday nights from 5-8pm)

So... how do we bring in diverse culture if we are offering opportunities to only local artists?
While our focus will be in providing local artists with show opportunities, we will have one small space designated to inviting larger name artists into our walk.  Fortunately for us, my husband is a glass artist and former preparator/curator for some urban galleries, museums and universities... and thanks to him, one of our first shows will include some big names... a show not to be missed... along with his show of works.  (...and that's all I will say... don't miss it.)

...and then there were 4... or more?

All I can say at this point is...

Close your eyes
Cross your fingers
Make a wish
and save the date.

5.6.11

Another day, another space

Today I will be meeting with another building owner, though, this one seems a bit hesitant over the phone I am anticipating convincing her of the positive aspects of us creating this artwalk.  With 2 verbal agreements so far and the village approval, things are getting very exciting in downtown Plainfield!

Christine has already prepped you for your first visit to our upcoming artwalks... and she was "spot on."  (I actually did have my hair dyed purple back in October... and after reading her post, I am considering once again, just for fun.  Business first though, who takes artists seriously when they walk in with all those qualities asking for a free space?  It's business attire today for me.)  So, when you come out for our very first FIRST FRIDAY artist receptions (either starting in May or June), you'll know what you're looking for.  Thanks, Christine!

Yesterday, I had a bit of a challenge getting past a gatekeeper leasing agent.  I may have to find a back door... but if you read my previous post "to no avail" you'll guess that I will succeed in doing this.  We'll see; wish me luck.

An sneak preview on show information... we have begun planning shows for these spaces as the time is nearing and I am happy to report that we may have one show up with some BIG artist names!  (tentative, as is everything at this time, but it looks promising) as well as an Art Cube Studios' student show and solo exhibitions of course.  The shows are already lining up!  And... we have an expert curator/preparator to help teach us proper gallery preparation and hanging techniques.

Thanks for joining us, post your comments, spread the buzz, and watch us make history!

How to Identify Your Local Area Artist

Local artists can be a wiley bunch.  But don't be afraid- they usually won't bite and are often very pleasant to be around.  Here are some tell-tale signs that the person you see grocery shopping, or pumping gas, or staring directly at the sun may in fact be a local artist.

1) Look at the hair-  Shades of bright red, purple, blue or green are often a dead giveaway.

2) Bumper sitckers-  Stickers that say "My son/daughter is an art student so back off"  or "I brake for canvas sales" are usually a good indication that some sort of artist is behind the wheel.

3) Fingers/fingernails-  Examine the fingers closely.  Any signs of paint, graphite, ink, or marker on the hands means you may be dealing with an artist.  Be warned.

4) Glasses-  Look for the late 50's early 60's cat-eye glasses.  Sometimes in subdued black, often in bright colors or patterns.  However, librarians are also known to sport these type of spectacles. Don't make them angry.

5) Neckware- Oversized scarves, kerchiefs, or other such neck-related clothing can mean there is an artist among you. Or possibly Dr. Who.

6) Sketchbook-  HUGE tip off.  If you catch anyone scribbling in a sketchbook (especially in a coffeshop, on a parkbench, train platform, restaurant or other pretentious location) , chances are that they are either writing a manifesto or they may be an artist.

7) Erratic/Unsettling behavior- Yes, we are a little strange sometimes.  Odd habits and quirks are commonplace among the artist species.  So if you catch anyone wearing a miner's helmet, playing bongos while reading a book on Escher-- well, you know.  But then again, maybe they just have a chemical imbalance.  Toe-MAY-toe, Toe- MAH-toe.

Hopefully this will help y'all spot one o' them artist types.  Again, we are usually quite pleasant to be around once you let us smell your hand and you scratch behind our ears. 

Gotta go paint!  You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here.

-Christine

Artwalk to come?

Amanda here...

Just met with some important people in the village... not too important... just THE MAYOR and his administrator as well as a local building owner (who shall remain nameless at this point in time).  And things are lookin' good so far for us to potentially start a string of pop-up galleries in our local town!  (fingers crossed)  Hopefully we can get this artwalk started in May and run it through September with several gallery spaces, but at least with one (worst case scenario... well, worst case would be none, but I think we might have one).  I have a few more appointments this week and next with more vacant space owners to present the idea and paint the town!

So... how do you continue to be stimulated and inspired in the boonies?  You create the inspiration and spread it like contagious laughter... and that's what Christine and I are working on.  So, grab your friends, jump on board and let's get this town hoppin'!

Pop-Up Galleries, Local Economies, and the Pursuit of Culture

Pop-up galleries  have been around quite a while.  Chicago has had them for years, as well as the surrounding suburbs like Evanston and Blue Island.  And that is disregarding all of the larger cities in the state, the country and the UK!

So why not here in Plainfield?  Or should I ask "why in Plainfield"?

I'm no economist, or city commissioner, or store-front business owner.  But have you visited our downtown?  Are you familiar with our seasonal festivals and downtown celebrations?  Unless I am way off in my thinking, the reason for having these events are- A) to put money into the local economy from residents from the surrounding area, and B) to give something to the local community to enjoy.  Both of these are good reasons. So how does a pop-up gallery accomplish these two goals?
The galleries are an event.  It can be made to be as big as necessary to bring people in.  All that is needed is a little advertising, and local businesses to give a some space to allow the art to be shown- or even better, vacant buildings can be cleaned up and used to display the works.  This brings in a TREMENDOUS amount of foot traffic through the downtown area.  People will be looking at the vacant buildings as potential business opportunites, and giving money to the local shops and restaurants.  And what does this cost the city?  Nothing, pretty much.  Plus- IT'S AN ART GALLERY.  Free for anyone to visit, with lots of art to buy and enjoy!! People coming from Shorewood, Naperville, Aurora, Warrenville, and the surrounding areas to enjoy an art exhibit and help our local economy is a pretty good thing.

Where is the down side to this?

-Christine

To no avail

It has begun.
Phone numbers and names are being acquired.
The buzz has started; the word is spreading.
The venues have been scoped out.
The wheels are greased.
Messages have been left in the vocal abyss of nothingness.
Emails have been sent through cyberspace.

Let's get this artwalk going, Plainfield!  JOIN US.

Help me Help you...

Isn't that the saying?  "Help me help you!"  Seems to be the theory as of about now.  I'm trying to get some pop-up art galleries going in this town and as I contact real estate agents, I'm finding them to be non-responsive and those that are responsive expect me to be pre-approved to buy.  I'm sorry, but I'm not trying to buy your place, sellers and landlords, I'm trying to HELP YOU get your place cleaned, rented and potentially sold... as well as trying to bring some foot traffic to our gorgeous historical downtown street that has been in the works of a visual uplift... (not to mention provide showing opportunities for local artists and children) so what gives?  Where's the optimism?  Where is the "let's pull together and make something of ourselves" attitude?  I'm so confused on how to get this all started.

BUT I AM MOTIVATED!
AND POWERFUL!
AND DETERMINED!
AND WILLING TO PRESS ON IN THE NAME OF SHARING, CARING, and GIVING!

So, here I come... ready or not.

Here's a good article about how Pop-up galleries work:
http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/2010-06-24/news/pop-art-for-some-local-artists-the-bad-economy-is-good-news/

While that article is mainly about an already established art scene, I am familiar with some of the artists involved in this scene (friends of mine) and have personally shown at a gallery or two down on Marshall Way in this area.  And I feel that it is important to note that our boonies town is NOT anywhere near an established artistic community... so the question is... where do we start and how far do we want to go?  Where is the benefit?  Read and consider the possibilities.

-Amanda

Of Art and Low Quality Pastries...

Christine here.  I'm not so sure about this "blogging" business.  I'm still getting used to self check-out lanes in grocery stores.  But with Amanda's help, I'm sure we can muddle through this together.

  I guess the whole point of Art in the Boonies is to bring awareness of art to places that ordinarily would have minimal exposure to fine arts.  I had a whole list of analogies for the concept like a flower in a desert, or a diamond in a lump of coal- but that's giving the wrong idea.  Without getting into a long, drawn-out definition of art (and believe me, you don't want to hear it), it simply is creating for beauty's sake.  And whether we realize it or not- we all need it to some degree.  And the nice thing is, being in the Boonies makes you appreciate art even more.  Now I'm not talking about behaving like Squidward Tentacles with his contrived snobbery and horrendous clarinet playing- I mean letting yourself enjoy something that exisits simply to give a little joy and thought to other people.

Okay, enough with the philosophy and Spongebob references.  Moving on.

  Ever think about why you like a certain location outdoors, or why you enjoy a certain movie?  There may be specific reasons, but basically it's because it makes you feel good.  Art should be the same way (yes, movies are an art form, but you get my point!).  Creating art can be even better, because it combines that feeling with a sense of accomplishment and pride. All good things, right?  Right.  Especially if it gives something for other people to enjoy, also.  That's kinda the point of art exhibits and museums and galleries.  And Hostess fruit pies.  Well, maybe not.  I just threw that in there to see if you were paying attention.

Great googly-moogly, I just blogged!  How did I do?  Comments, questions?  Bueller?

Peace out, until next time.

http://www.crowsfeetstudios.com/

What's an Artwalk?

Hopefully, we'll see the answer to this question downtown Plainfield very soon!

An Artwalk is a night out on the town where a series of galleries and artist studio spaces open to public for a free night of visual stimulation and critical analysis in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere.  Artwalks tend to pull a large crowd.  Open art spaces will generally designate one night each month as an opening reception and put out a spread of refreshments and tasty bites.

As I listen to Madeleine Peyroux, I'm working on figuring out how to host an artwalk each month this summer in our town with opening receptions held on the First Friday of each month.  I will keep you posted on how this progresses.  But, that is the first of many things that we are doing to continue the venture of not only spreading our contagious creativity, but helping the local economy and boost morale in our boonies.

And... if you have not heard of my studio... please visit my website at www.artcubestudios.com.

Amanda

What are we doing!??!

OK... HERE WE ARE!  We are Christine, the ever-impressive guru of multi-talents... and Amanda, the incredible, inspiring motivator of many things.  Both artists and living in what most artists might consider "the boonies."  Yesterday, I, Amanda, woke up with an inexplicable urge to start a blog (even though I have never even read a blog; and if you happen to know me, you know I honestly do not enjoy reading anything at all) and had no idea where the thought originated as I am not a writer and have plenty of other things to keep me busy.  Soooooo, I posted on my Facebook page that irrational desire of mine to see my new friend, Christine, reply with some comical remarks and a title for our new blog... so here it is and we'll see where it goes. 

The thought here, is how do artists continue to create works in areas that lack cultural diversity... and we could add to it... in this fanta-bulous economy that seems to be eliminating most of what we do as professionals?  Where is the inspiration?  Where is the motivation?  Where are the shows?  Where is the credibility as an artist not active in a vibrant art scene?  What are WE doing as artists to promote ourselves?  What are we doing as artists to help other artists thrive (or merely survive)?

We'll tell you what we're doing and can't wait to hear about what you're doing.  So... let's make some lemonade with all these lemons!