Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition

WE'VE MOVED: OVAC Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 17 Apr 2014 18:13:00 +0000

Hello faithful OVAC blog readers - We would like to announce that we are moving our blog, all posts old and new, to our new website.

The new website is great, and the blog is even better than before! Because the blog is on our website, we can tag blog posts to our programs and they will appear on those pages.

OVAC's new blog!

For instance, if you go to the page for Tulsa Art Studio Tour, you can see the most recent blog posts related to the Tour.

Our first blog post that is unique to our new website re-caps Momentum OKC 2014 - we hope you swing by to take a look!

See you on the new site!

Abstracted Landscapes: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Libby Williams

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 17:26:00 +0000

Libby grew up in Kansas City and has also studied art at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia and Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, New York. Libby Williams will be completing a Master of Fine Art degree in Painting from the University of Tulsa in May 2014.

Tour Artist Libby William's studio inside the Zarrow Center

Williams makes landscape paintings from direct observation in order to discover more sophisticated structures and compositions generated from her head in the studio. Her painting process is a dialogue between invented abstraction and perceptual observation."This back and forth practice allows both methods to inform the other and develop an approach to painting that walks the line between invention and observation," says Williams

Tour Artist Libby Williams at work.

Her studio schedule changes with the seasons. "In the spring and fall I like to do more plein air," said Williams of her practice. Her works explore color and connections through compositions. She likes the way her paintings fit together like a puzzle. "Recently my favorite piece is an oil painting called Owen Park (Porch View). I like it because it was made completely from observation but has taken on some unusual abstract structures that I try to put in my invented work," noted Williams

Meet & see the working studio of Williams along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Mashups and Monsters: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Kyle Blair

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 16:36:00 +0000

Kyle Blair was born and raised in the central valley of California, and has spent his entire life learning to draw. He loves 80’s movies, rock-n-roll, The Muppets, and granola bars.

Though he doesn't feel the primary purpose of all art is to make people happy, Blair channels his sense of humor and fun through his work.

Tour Artist Kyle Blair in his studio

His involvement with an illustrator collective, JEB Kennedy Collective, has been a great

influence on his work. Though he is primarily an illustrator, he works with printmaking as it "is a nice compliment, a hands on way to translate [my] work," he said of his technique.

He has been drawing since age 3, and draws like he doesn't have a choice. He always has a sketchbook handy to write down his next idea. "I believe an artist is only ever as good as his or her next art piece." said Blair.

work by Tour Artist Kyle Blair

As for the Studio Tour, he is very interested in becoming more involved in the Tulsa art community. "I'm looking forward to collaborating and connecting with artists and others who might come through my studio," Blair added.

Meet & see the working studio of Blair along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Inventing Creatures: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Taryn Singleton

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 22:05:00 +0000

Artist Taryn Singleton has always been interested in fabric and patterns, especially patterns that depict elements of nature. Having a grandmother who taught home-economics, and coming from a theater-set-building background, Singleton has a keen interest in craft art, and originally wanted to be a fashion designer.

work by Taryn Singleton

"[My grandmother] taught me to sew when I was six or seven years old and I’ve been really fascinated with fabrics and patterns ever since. Especially... the way a fabric designer will condense something like a flower bush down to two leaves, a stem, and a pod," she stated.

Blurring the boundaries between plants and animals she creates her own creatures that embody both. "My main concern is to create new life," pointed out Singleton.

Tour Artist Taryn Singleton in her studio

Singleton creates her work using painting, printmaking, fabric, and collage, with patterns and materials that are both made and found. Of this, Singleton said, "I try to experiment and be playful using found art and taking risks."

Meet & see the working studio of Singleton along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Fantastical Dialogue: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Megan Curtis

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 15:29:00 +0000

Megan Curtis was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and received her degree in Studio art at Oklahoma State University. Curtis works in watercolor and oil. Her work is based on biblical narratives and children's fairytales, with a focus on the women in these stories. "The concept/idea behind the piece is the most important aspect in my work," said Curtis.

Tour artist Megan Curtis

By juxtaposing whimsical fantasy with harsh reality, her ultimate goal is to stir emotional contradictions within the viewer. "By using religious iconography and symbols from fairy tales I can construct images that are familiar yet unsettling," added Curtis.

inside the studio of Megan Curtis

She studied abroad in Japan, and learned Sumi-e painting, and likes that in Sumi-e, there is an exploration of negative space, line, and rhythm. "Artwork can be a tool to communicate without having to directly talk with me, so that the art speaks for me instead," she noted "Painting allows me to have a dialogue with myself and the viewers in a way that no other medium allows."

Meet & see the working studio of Curtis along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Rituals and Games: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist John Bryant

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 08 Apr 2014 19:41:00 +0000

John Bryant grew up in Texas and therefore considers himself a Texan. "Like many other Texans I wasn’t actually born there, but it’s where I grew up so it feels like home, even if I don’t live there anymore," said Bryant of his Texas experience, "In many ways it’s more fun to be a Texan away from home than it is to live there and endure the blistering heat while being devoured by fire ants."

Tour Artist John Bryant

He attended the University of Tulsa and graduated with an undergraduate degree in printmaking. He then worked as a teacher both here in the United States as well as Japan. He returned to Oklahoma to and is working on his master’s degree at the University of Tulsa.

John Bryant's Studio at the Zarrow Center

He was attracted to printmaking because the end product is "not necessarily precious, it can be repeated, prints can be given away, they can also be incorporated into other art forms," said Bryant. "I am currently working with cardboard, collaged materials, and screen printing," he added.

Bryant work concerns symbols and rituals. He has a secret language of symbols in his work, and through his art, he is trying to put together a puzzle. Art is how Bryant translates his thoughts into the physical world. "I have a problem with not really being satisfied with anything I make," noted Bryant, "Fortunately, this keeps me busy trying to be better."

Meet & see the working studio of Bryant along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Courage to Create: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Chuck Tomlins

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 20:50:00 +0000

Artist Chuck Tomlins graduated from Ohio State University in 1966 with his Masters of Fine Arts, and has been an instructor and professor at the University of Tulsa since then. Tomlins teaches studio arts for non-majors, as well as a writing seminar on the creative process.

Though he has formal adult training, he started in the studio at a young age, and recalls his grade school offering drama, music and art. Of his early experiences in art, Tomlins said "The creative process is vital in all disciplines, and exposure to the creative process at an early age provides the 'courage to create.'"

the studio of Chuck Tomlins

Tomlins considers himself an “intermedia” artist, bringing all different types of artistic media together: sculpture, drawing, performance, etc. Tomlins has used Performance Art as a method of examination, preservation, and celebration of a people's heritage.

Tour Artist Chuck Tomlins in his studio

He works in the studio when he is not teaching, and keeps a sketchbook like a diary. He learned from his instructor to keep a schedule and be in the studio working so that you can be there when inspiration comes. "Inspiration is not on a schedule – it will happen when it happens," said Tomlins.

Tomlins advocates for art education for all ages, and wants to spread his interest in arts to the public.

Meet & see the working studio of Gordon along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Floral inspiration: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Patrick Gordon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 20:20:00 +0000

Patrick Gordon has been painting since the age of five. His mother was an artist and would paint with her in her studio. He had his first art show at the age of twelve and opened a gallery by fifteen.

inside the studio of Tour artist Patrick Gordon

He enjoys working with watercolors because of the precise, exact nature of the medium, but switched to oil paint because he could work much larger with them. He finds inspiration from flowers and most of his pieces or about people.

Tour Artist Patrick (P.S. Gordon)

He wants viewers to feel happiness when looking at his work. Painting is the most fun he can have and he wants people to think he had fun while painting the pieces.

Meet & see the working studio of Gordon along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Lovely in Oklahoma - Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Rachel Ann Dennis

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 03 Apr 2014 16:21:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Tulsa Art Studio Tour 2014. A self-guided tour, the Tulsa Art Studio Tour showcases the talent of artists who live and work in Tulsa.Today we are featuring Tour artist Rachel Ann Dennis.

Printmaker and artist Rachel Ann Dennis started out as a Women’s, Gender and Sexuality major and transformed herself into Master Print, Book and Paper artist. Dennis's advice: “Don’t wait for the next thing or right time to make art, use your creativity now to figure out the next thing, make the space in your life”.

inside the studio of Tour Artist Rachel Ann Dennis

Her passion is to continue the art form, preserve the craft/trade, through education, collaboration and the exploration of the history of the tools and the trade.

Her jovial personality will make you feel at home in her studio, as she explains her craft. She talks about her tools and presses as if they are family and friends, her presses have names. "This is a tradition of the trade," says Dennis.

Tour Artist Rachel Ann Dennis in her studio

When asked what her favorite piece she has created she says her studio and she thinks of it as an installation piece. Called "OK LOVELY," her studio serves as a working artist studio that also hosts workshops in letterpress printing, book binding and paper making for the community.

Meet & see the working studio of Dennis along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Green Goods: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Laurie Keeley

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 18:20:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Tulsa Art Studio Tour 2014. A self-guided tour, the Tulsa Art Studio Tour showcases the talent of artists who live and work in Tulsa.Today we are featuring Tour artist Laurie Keeley.

Working from a background of art and garden design, artist Laurie Keeley sets out to create furniture and objects to share with the public. "Years ago I realized that I had created & surrounded myself with a secret world of art and plants, " says Keeley.

FURN - the studio of Tour Artist Laurie Keeley

Her sculpture is inspired by raw salvaged materials, and she adds a new functionality to these
objects. A complex practice of conversion is involved in her studio.She works with very industrial processes – cutting, welding, powder coating – all just to reclaim
materials. Her internal process is simple: she turns up the loud music, turns on lots of lights, and just gets to it. She loves to play, experiment, and explore. "If having products to sell were not an issue, I would make prototypes all day long," she says.

Looking to energize and vitalize spaces, Laurie Keeley created her own business, FURN, where she rents and sells the furniture made in her studio. "My mission with FURN is to produce functional art that breathes soul into the spaces we spend time in syncing our everyday natural environments, art, & approachable design creatively together," says Keeley.

Tour Artist Laurie Keeley in her studio

She recently moved to her new space, which is a commercial live/work space. Having traded trees and greenery for larger windows and trains, she can’t wait to add windows, establish plants, and create an oasis in her new industrial home.

Meet & see the working studio of Keeley along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Edited Abstracts: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Jim Polan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 26 Mar 2014 18:45:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Tulsa Art Studio Tour 2014. A self-guided tour, the Tulsa Art Studio Tour showcases the talent of artists who live and work in Tulsa.Today we are featuring Tour artist Jim Polan.

Coming from a family of artists, Polan grew up under the influence of Abstract Expressionism; his father studied under famous Armenian-American Ab ex painter Arshile Gorky. Gorky was one of his favorite painters, long before he knew of his father's history with him.

Jim Polan, Fox Opera In The Deep Wood, oil and graphite on canvas, triptych, 40x90"

In his process, Polan's work starts representational that becomes abstract, calling these works "edited abstracts". There is usually a flurry of activity at first where he works very quickly. His next step is contemplative; during this time there is observation of what
has been created with careful attention to the lines. "I worry about becoming too attached to an image before I’ve fully reduced it to its abstract form and that it will be too representational or realistic," he states.

Then the editing occurs where parts of the canvas are covered, reworked and other magic occurs. "After they're done they're on their own," says Polan of his work.

Tulsa Art Studio Tour 2014 artist Jim Polan in the studio

Truly a Renaissance Man, Polan, a full-time lawyer at Riggs Abney, has his BFA in Ceramics, his MA in Modern Letters from TU, and a JD in Law from Cornell. His day job allows him to be free to paint what he wants, and not work in a particular subject matter or signature style. In the past, Polan has been a welder, cabinet maker, forklift driver, and warehouse worker. His background is as diverse as his large body of artwork over his lifetime.

Meet & see the working studio of Polan along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

OVAC Annual Artist Survey 2014 – State of Artists

noreply@blogger.com (Kelsey Karper) — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 21:07:00 +0000

Each year, the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition surveys artists who have participated in our programs in some way over the previous three years. This annual survey gives us a snapshot of where Oklahoma artists are in their careers and practice, and tells us how OVAC has helped them reach their goals. The survey is in its third year and you can read results from previous surveys here, including in-depth responses to common questions.

OVAC board and staff developed clear outcomes we are seeking with our programs and services that drive these survey questions. OVAC seeks for artists to have vital, fulfilling careers and artistic practices in Oklahoma, which drives us to offer resources, encourage connections to other artists, and emphasize recognition of artists. Also, OVAC seeks enriched and vibrant Oklahoma communities and culture because of and through the arts. For this outcome, OVAC offers more opportunities and increased access to Oklahoma art and artists.

This post summarizes the current state of artists in Oklahoma. We received over 200 responses.

Environment for Artists in Oklahoma

*96% of respondents say they believe the general environment for art in Oklahoma has improved because of OVAC.

*Because of OVAC, 85% say they are better able to practice their art in Oklahoma.

Comparison: These percentages are identical to last year’s responses, which increased slightly from 2012.

“The existence of OVAC is essential to raising the quality of life in Oklahoma, improving the creative image of Oklahoma, and attracting new business to Oklahoma. Oklahomans must continue to support and expand OVAC to make OK an attractive place to live and do business.”

Network for Artists

*Because of their participation in OVAC programs, 73% say they know more people to call on about making art, and 79% say they know more people to talk with about the business of art.

Comparison: These percentages increased from 66% and 71% respectively in last year’s survey.

“I have become acquainted with many venues, resources and people I would have had trouble finding without OVAC. It organizes an otherwise chaotic field for me.”

“OVAC has provided a supportive environment where I have felt that I belong to something larger, and am not alone.”

Business Tools

35% of respondents have attended an Artist Survival Kit workshop (down from 60% of last year’s respondents). The numbers below give us some insight into artist’s readiness for opportunities, as well as areas where artists could use additional resources or help as potential workshop topics.

84% have a studio or workspace (2013: 82%)

76% have an artist statement (2013: 84%)

75% have a portfolio (2013: 79%)

74% have an artist resume (2013: 81%)

64% have a website (2013: 64% - no change!)

40% have an action plan (2013: 40% - no change!)

“I found the [Artist Survival Kit] program the best practical training of anything I’ve done as an artist. It’s a well thought-through program that covers foundational things an artist needs to know. The cost was so affordable and all the speakers knowledgeable. The atmosphere for each workshop was friendly, not intimidating and always helpful. I liked going to different galleries for meetings and seeing what other cities had to offer.”

“I think the real question in my mind is would I be able to be an artist in Oklahoma without OVAC? Probably not. OVAC has filled in every gap (and the gaps were wide and deep) that grad school didn't prepare me for in terms of being a professional artist: artist statements, resume, proposal writing, photographing artwork, mentorship, curatorial guidance… that list goes on. And the opportunities to develop as an artist that OVAC has provided have only made me a substantially better artist than I was when I started eight years ago. Thank you. Thank you times infinity.”

Recent OVAC-funded Artist Projects

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 20:28:00 +0000

Congratulations to our recent grant recipients! Artist project support for the quarter totals $4,714 to 6 artists. he Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Grants for Artists help artists realize their potential. Thanks to OVAC donors who make these transformative awards possible. www.ovacgrants.org

January 2014 OVAC-Funded Artist Projects:

Heather Clark Hilliard, Anatomy, commercial and
hand spun wool, tree cages, 3’ x h 8’ x d 3’, 2013

Heather Clark Hilliard, Norman
Creative Projects Artist Grant

Heather Hilliard Clark uses dyed wool, thread and other natural and found materials to create abstract two-dimensional and three- dimensional forms. Hilliard intends to create nine new installation works for a an exhibition called Fettered Unfettered, New Work at Oklahoma City University’s Hulsey Gallery from August 25 to October 17, 2014. This exhibition will explore the dynamic exchange between physical and mental responses to the environment and will be the first time the artist has shown at a university setting.
www.heatherclarkhilliard.com

Katy Seals, Burger Baby. Mixed Media on Panel. 6’x5’. 2012.

Katy Seals, Ada
Artist Education Grant

Katy Seals, a printmaking professor at East Central University, will attend Frogman's Print and Paper Workshop in July at the University of South Dakota to study the intaglio printmaking technique. She will study under Michael Kruger, a professor from the University of Kansas. The workshop will allow Seals to gain new skills as well as network with a wide range of printmakers from across the U.S. She plans to integrate these new skills into her own work as well as her teaching. www.katyseals.com

Alexandra Knox, Pursuit, Dyed muslin, poplar, 120”x60”x48”. 2013.

Alexandra Knox, Norman
Creative Projects Artist Grant

Alexandra Knox, a sculpture professor at East Central University, will attend the Keen Foundry Invitational Symposium in Houston with one of her students. There she will have the opportunity to create a large scale cast iron sculpture allowing her to create freely without size restrictions. This symposium will be a once in a lifetime opportunity for Knox and her student and will allow them to make important connections for their university, their community, and their own careers.
www.alexandranadiaknox.com

Jason Cytacki, See the USA (In Your Chevrolet), Oil on Canvas, 42” x 62” 2012

Jason Cytacki, Norman
Creative Projects Artist Grant

Jason Cytacki’s intricate paintings explore themes of American identity by using imagery of pop culture and the American West. Cytacki will create new work for an exhibit at the Science Museum of Oklahoma Satellite Gallery entitled Fortresses of Solitude, an exploration of imaginative secret lairs in pop culture. By branching into three-dimensional art, Cytacki intends to leave his comfort zone of 2D painting and explore new imagery.
www.jasoncytacki.com

Casey Pankey, Sunday Sickness, Plaster, fabric, Bible pages.

29” x 27” x 18”. 2013.

Casey Pankey, Stillwater
Professional Basics Grant

With this grant, Casey Pankey will purchase a high-quality Nikon camera to document her work for upcoming shows in the immediate and long-term future. Her current body of work, Childhood Memories, is a series of sculptural forms that tap into intimate memories from her childhood. With the vital tool of a camera, Pankey will be able to photograph this work for potential shows at Small Art, Big Impact in Manhattan, Las Laguna Art Gallery in California, and the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s Momentum.
http://caseyepankey.wix.com/artist

Sarah Day-Short, Stellar Companions,

acrylic, spray paint, paint pen on canvas, (8) 6" X 6", 2013.

Sarah Day-Short, Oklahoma City
Professional Basics Grant

Sarah Day Short plans to show with FRINGE artists Mary James Ketch and Jessica Craddock for a “three woman show” in mid to late 2014, and plans to show existing work as well as produce 7 to 9 new pieces. Her work focuses on abstract forms and color with reference to the cosmos. She will use the grant funds to create frames for some of her existing and new work so she will be able to present more clean and professional work for gallery exhibitions.
www.sarahdayshortart.daportfolio.com

Direct Support: Art 365 Curator Raechell Smith

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 20:02:00 +0000

After several years of planning, the Art 365 exhibition opened February 28, 2014 at [Artspace] at Untitled. Guest curator Raechell Smith worked with the five artists over the past year to develop the exhibition. Smith is the Director & Chief Curator at the H&R Block Artspace at the Kansas City Art Institute. Learn more about the exhibition and Smith’s perspective on the work in this video and in her curatorial statement below.

Bryan Cook, Cathleen Faubert, Eyakem Gulilat, Alexandra Knox, Romy Owens

This year’s Art 365 introduces us to new and exciting artwork created by five artists who set out to challenge the vision and scope of their artistic practice in a dynamic partnership with the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC).

A journey undertaken can assume many forms and the scale of its encounters can be grand or small. For this project, each artist has embarked on a unique, adventurous journey.

While four of the artists traveled to regions both near and far to gather images, experiences, knowledge, and materials for the works presented in the exhibition, all of the artists have made new discoveries and gained fresh perspectives.

While one artist’s inner quest to define a purposeful, creative life has been graciously transformed into an immersive space for others to experience quiet communion and contemplation, they each have expanded the edges of their artistic and personal realms in courageous ways.

Art 365 artist Cathleen Faubert in studio visit with curator Raechell Smith

One remarkable and common theme present throughout the exhibition is a deep interest in place. The artists give shape to questions that help us understand how place informs our personal and cultural identity and how we sometimes gain from it a sense of belonging, an understanding of home or notions of a homeland.

In photography and installations, the artists explore personal, familial, natural and cultural histories and ecologies as they consider the many ways we can survey and understand place - a particular landscape - and our connection to it.

Over the course of the past year, these five creative practices have shifted and expanded to include new and innovative approaches to thinking and making work.

With direct support from OVAC, each project has been generously shaped by inspiration, extraordinary vision, opportunity, conversation, and the shared knowledge of many. From all accounts, it has been a journey well taken.

Raechell Smith

Guest Curator, Art 365

See the exhibition [Artspace] at Untitled, 1 NE 3^rd, in Oklahoma City 10-5 Tuesday through Friday or 10-4 on Saturdays or check out some of the public programs. Admission is free and will continue through May 10. The exhibition will be recreated at the Hardesty Arts Center (AHHA)101 E Archer St, Tulsa May 23 through August 9, 2014.

Freedom from Oppression: Tulsa Art Studio Tour Artist Jose Pantoja

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 16:40:00 +0000

An Immigrant from Cuba, Jose Antonio Pantoja Hernandez's work focuses on his experience as a Cuban citizen working in protest of the government. With surrealist compositions and muted colors, his work expresses a need for freedom from oppressive systems. "Freedom is most important in my work," says Pantoja.

Dictatorship by Jose Pantoja Oil on Canvas, 48x48"

Born in Cuba in 1971, Pantoja received apprenticeships as a carpenter and woodworker using antiquated tools. As his interests turned to painting and sculpting, he sought visual inspiration from a small collection of art books that showcased mainly works from Goya and Rembrandt.

Tour Artist Jose Antonio Pantoja Hernandez in his studio

Pantoja started painting to protest the government. He painted a series to represent the dire situation of the people in Cuba. He chose to paint surrealistically because "speaking out loud would put you in jail in 1994," he says.

As he no longer lives in Cuba, his work moves from surrealism to expressionistic paintings of boats and landscapes. He is excited to share his work and studio space, but wants viewers to remember the reasons he started painting. "It's ironic that Fidel Castro made me create my art," he adds.

Meet & see the working studio of Pantoja along with 13 other artists on April 12-13, noon until 5 pm on the Tulsa Art Studio Tour. For more info, or to purchase tickets, visit www.TulsaArtStudioTour.org.

Exploring Death: Momentum Artist Klair Larason

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 09 Mar 2014 17:17:00 +0000

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this work in Momentum?

Klair Larason: My concept and inspiration are not completely solid yet, however I've become of fond working on skulls and bones as a medium. It might sound odd, but I enjoy the concept of death very much, it has almost the widest array of connections and applications for people. I find the idea of a complete end strange; specifically the idea of where there will be a day where I won't exist anymore. I think it's good for me to focus and think about this weird thing and how it affects myself and others. Always exploring I guess.

Klair Larason, Stillwater, “The Cow”, Skull with Gum Wrapper Foil, 6.5x9x17, $320

LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.

KL: My technique has always been kind of streamlined, but usually I first start with a background medium and then add onto that. In this case it was with various skulls, so I would first acquire one I liked to work on. This one I "borrowed" from my mom when I was 10 and she found it while hiking in the Wichita Mountains. After I find a skull, I then melt and pour plastic over it. It takes about thirty minutes to an hour to pour, then I wait another day or two for it to settle and harden. Then I just freehand whatever I want on the rest of the pour, in this case it's gum wrapper foil. Lay down a couple clear coats for good measure, then wham bam I'm done!

Klair Larason, Stillwater, “The Coyote”, Skull with Gum Wrapper Foil, 3x3.5x6, $120

LR: Is this work part of a series?

KL: I'd really like to think it's going to be part of a series, but that depends on how many more skulls I can afford and make . However, I do plan to work on this longer and see this as a new direction for me. I'll always keep making art.

LR:Where else can the audience see your work?
KL: My work can be found on the [OVAC] Virtual Gallery and I usually post on my tumblr.
I welcome anyone interested to contact me either on Facebook or my email below.

Momentum OKC features visual art by 101 young Oklahomans. The exhibition remains on display until March 10, with artist talks at 6pm at the Farmer's Public Market OKC, 311 S Klein. Learn more or buy tickets at www.MomentumOklahoma.org

Programming Identity: Momentum Artist Amy Sanders

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 08 Mar 2014 18:04:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Momentum OKC 2014. Momentum exhibits Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger in a venue created specifically for them, helping them gain experience and meet new audiences. Today we are featuring Momentum artist Amy Sanders from Norman, OK.

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?
Amy Sanders: Ghost is based on an exploration of identity and place--of self-awareness and of perception of the self in particular places. It was inspired by my return from a trip to my room, and the feelings that came with that moment. When walking back into my room, I had felt that I was entering a dead person's room, that the person that once lived there was no longer around. I felt like a ghost in my previous life, and I could no longer understand why I lived my life the way I had before. Looking at the things in my room, it was clear to me that everything was placed or arranged in a particular way for a specific reason--but I could not remember those reasons. When I think back on this experience, I picture a ghost form of myself meeting a dead, physical form of myself after spending some time apart. Both know they should recognize the other, but there is a sense of unfamiliarity that ultimately overwhelms the two. Eventually, the ghost--the newer form, the side of me that changed over spring break--takes over, making changes in the room and erasing any mark the “corpse” had left before.

still from Ghost by Amy Sanders

The code breaks up the aforementioned experience into three parts--return, interaction, and takeover. The code consists of various elements overlapping or taking place at once, to symbolize the tension between the ghost’s and the corpse’s feelings and thought processes, especially since they are, in a sense, the same person. In the sequences produced by the code, a “dead” figure is displayed in the background. In one corner, one word at a time displays on a loop describing the emotions and thoughts of the “corpse” as it sees the ghost enter the room. A single, glowing white orb grows in another corner, multiplies, and moves across the entire screen, which represents the ghost’s presence taking over. A clock is also shown, indicating that the process continues to take place over time. A viewer may take part in the interaction, moving the mouse and clicking to distort the dialogue between the two sides. This interactivity allows someone to become a part of the already tense and cluttered conversation by visually translating that chaos with their mouse movements.

LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.
AS: I created the piece using Processing, a computer programming language and application. When I began conceptualizing the art piece, code immediately jumped out as the best way to translate my idea and aesthetics into a visual piece. I had done video, 2D and 3D works, but code was fairly new to me. I desired a piece with compelling and transient aesthetics, as well as the logic of coding and unpredictability of interactivity, all of which I found appealing for this specific concept. While the piece is not part of a series, it incorporates identity and place, themes I explore in much of my art practice, as well as light, an important element in my artwork.

My works are all viewable online at www.amysandersart.com

Momentum OKC opens March 7 & 8 with live music, performance, and visual art by 101 young Oklahomans. The exhibition remains on display until March 10 at the Farmer's Public Market OKC, 311 S Klein. Learn more or buy tickets at www.MomentumOklahoma.org

Futuristic Botanicals: Momentum Artist Kyle Van Osdol

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 18:25:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Momentum OKC 2014. Momentum exhibits Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger in a venue created specifically for them, helping them gain experience and meet new audiences. Today we are featuring Momentum artist Kyle Van Osdol from Oklahoma City, OK.

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?
Kyle Van Osdol: The concept behind the COSMOPOD series comes from the idea of melding neo-futuristic technology with botanical elements. The thought is to bring life to unique plants that could only exist in a digital realm.

COSMOPOD PROMO from K. Edward Van Osdol on Vimeo.LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.
KVD: The process comes from utilizing a 3D modeling platform called Cinema 4D. With this I am able to model, texture, rig, light and animate all of the fantastical elements.

LR:Where else can the audience see your work?
KVD: You can checkout some of the COSMOPODS currently at Science Museum Oklahoma in the Satellite Gallery or go investigate my vimeo page at https://vimeo.com/user1324792

Momentum OKC opens March 7 & 8 with live music, performance, and visual art by 101 young Oklahomans. The exhibition remains on display until March 10 at the Farmer's Public Market OKC, 311 S Klein. Learn more or buy tickets at www.MomentumOklahoma.org

Poking Fun at Art: Momentum Artist Cayla Lewis

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 18:04:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Momentum OKC 2014. Momentum exhibits Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger in a venue created specifically for them, helping them gain experience and meet new audiences. Today we are featuring Momentum artist Cayla Lewis from Oklahoma City, OK.

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?
Cayla Lewis: The next two questions really relate to each other. I like art... but I also really like to poke fun at art, question "what is art," and normally make things that people wouldn't consider "art." My initial inspiration for this series (which I'll explain in the next question) came from artist Marina Ambromovic's piece, "The Artist is Present." The gist of her performance is that she simply sits in an open gallery space at a table with a chair across from it, welcoming guests to sit across from her. The artist is the art. This piece will be me, behind a frame, being the art. In my mind, it's pretty tongue in cheek, but like I said, I like to poke fun at what art is and challenge what it could be. Viewers will coast through the gallery, looking at lovely paintings and sculptures but will hopefully stop and laugh and think and question when they see my performance. Also, who's to say I'm not a piece of art anyway? I'd like to consider myself a dang masterpiece!

Cayla Lewis, Oklahoma City, “The Artist Is”, Performance Mock Up

LR: Is this work part of a series?
CL: Yes. As a follow-up and ode to Marina Ambromovic's "The Artist is Present," this will be the second performance in my personal series following up "The Artist is Not Present," in which I went to a very popular event (during a performance art show I helped organize with Molly O'Connor) and communicated only via social media. I had a hashtag #theartistisnotpresent to follow up with anyone wanting to communicate. "The Artist Is" will likely be similar, as I will be mute during the performance, much like art on the wall - you can't necessarily physically communicate with it, but it can still mean something to you and cause a person to think past the surface.

LR: What do you like about performance work?
CL: I started writing this, "the biggest thing I like about performance art..." scratch that, "the two biggest thing I like..." and so on and so forth. That being said, I like a lot of things about performance art. I like the ephemerality of most performance art pieces, how you have to be present at the time of the performance to ever really see it. I like actions. I love art but have never been super interested in staring at pretty paintings on the wall, performance art takes art to an entirely new dimension and also brings in the fact that an action, a person, an event... can be the art. I know it's not the most widely accepted/understood form of art, but that is maybe another reason why I'm drawn to it.

I personally also like performing. I would never call myself a "performer," I'm shy and a super introvert but being the main product/medium of an art work is really exciting and motivating. I'm not a very opinionated person but I feel like performance art lets me show my perspectives about art in a unique way.

You can see my work at http://www.caylalewisart.blogspot.com/.

Blended Textures:Momentum Artist Anna Lee

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 17:48:00 +0000

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?

Anna Lee: Photography is my medium as an artist, but I’m also a graphic designer, so these pieces seek to combine those two elements. My pieces in Momentum this year are titled "Geometry 101”. I’m currently very drawn to geometric shapes being used as an artistic aesthetic, especially as a way to affect photographs. I like the combination of the organic landscapes in the photos and the hard lines of the digital shapes. It creates somewhat of a futurist sentiment for me.

Anna Lee, Oklahoma City, “Geometry 101 #2”,
Photography & Digital Art (printed on wood), 18x24, $250

LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.

AL: The photos were taken digitally while on trips in other states and countries. At the time, I was not taking them with an artistic end result in mind- just documenting my trips. However, they ended up being what I needed to execute my vision when I imagined this series. After toning the photos as I generally do, I overlaid the geometric shapes using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. The compositions are printed on wood to add another layer of blended texture.

Anna Lee, Oklahoma City, “Geometry 101 #1”,
Photography & Digital Art (printed on wood), 18x24, $250

LR: Is this work part of a series?

The two pieces that will be in Momentum do create a series that I hope to add more compositions to in the future.

Where else can the audience see your work? (website, gallery, etc.)

More of my photography work (portrait and art) can be seen on my website, blog, and social connections:

www.annaleemedia.com

twitter: @annaleemedia

instagram: @annaleemedia

tumblr: annaleemedia
Momentum OKC opens March 7 & 8 with live music, performance, and visual art by 101 young Oklahomans. The exhibition remains on display until March 10 at the Farmer's Public Market OKC, 311 S Klein. Learn more or buy tickets at www.MomentumOklahoma.org

Defining Selectivity: Momentum Artist Jenna Bryan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 17:43:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Momentum OKC 2014. Momentum exhibits Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger in a venue created specifically for them, helping them gain experience and meet new audiences. Today we are featuring Momentum artist Jenna Bryan from Norman, OK.

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?
Jenna Bryan: My work, "High Brow Low Brow" is probably one of my most straight forward pieces in terms of concept. As a recent college graduate in fine arts and a manager for a commercial print shop, I am constantly hopping between "low" and "high" art. It has been very interesting to see how others define art and what qualifies something as good art. For me, there is no specific answer or formula for good art and have difficulty trying to define it. In the same way, I have difficulty limiting my art to any certain standard or genre. I find it extremely entertaining what makes something more important than something else. This piece sort of trivializes the whole idea of high brow and low brow art by using playful imagery of eyebrows and mixing them interchangeably.

Jenna Bryan, Norman, “High Brow Low Brow”, Woodblock Print, 24x18, $80

LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.
JB: Primarily my work involves some form of printmaking. I gravitate more towards printmaking because it allows me to create multiples of my image so that I am able to reach more people with my work and offer more affordable prices. For this print, I chose to do a woodcut in which I played with positive and negative space. On a piece of MDF, I cut the line work and text into the block to make the Low Brow image. For the High Brow image, I cut around the brow and text. The block was then printed on a press with relief ink.

LR: Is this work part of a series?

JB: This work is a solo piece although, it is strongly connected to a previous work, "The Poop Block Series," in both appearance and concept. Both works share existentialistic themes that cause the viewer to question the significances of anything and everything. However, I think there is a light-heartedness that leaves a more optimistic after taste. There is somehow comfort and great responsibility in knowing that we are the ones who give things importance.

LR: Where else can the audience see your work?
http://thingsthatcomeoutofme.tumblr.com/

Momentum OKC opens March 7 & 8 with live music, performance, and visual art by 101 young Oklahomans. The exhibition remains on display until March 10 at the Farmer's Public Market OKC, 311 S Klein. Learn more or buy tickets at www.MomentumOklahoma.org

Nostalgic Collages: Momentum Artist Christopher Lee

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 18:30:00 +0000

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?

Christopher Lee: I attempt to sustain emotion through fragmented imagery and tonal collage work by creating moments that feel nostalgic and meaningful for the viewer, amidst the ever changing visual landscape. '1984' represents my birth year, but I think that year can insinuate different meanings to the audience, drawing their conclusions due to their own experiences or the literary work based off the same title.

Christopher Lee, Oklahoma City, “1984”, Digital, 20 X 27, $500

LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.
CL: I enjoy showcasing my love of printmaking and found type through a process involving forgotten design layouts and artworks, multiple textures(found or photographed) and other typographic elements. In this case, I collected imagery from 1984. I like the idea of taking images or type from pre-existing layouts and taking them out of context to convey a completely different mood or meaning. I bring these images into the computer where I'm able to try multiple layouts and layering before finalizing a piece.

LR: Is this work part of a series?
CL: No, it's not part of a series, but most of my work follows the same themes of found images and typographic manipulations.

LR: Where else can the audience see your work?
CL: My work can be found at insertemotion.com, which also includes my design work and photography.

Layers of Cultural Identity: Alexandra Knox, Art 365

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Alexandra Knox, Art 365 Artist Video

Alexandra Knox, Norman

Art 365 Project: Exodus

Knox received one of five Art 365 awards of $12,000 to produce new artwork for the Art 365 exhibition.

Knox’s recent artwork has focused on discovering and preserving Ukrainian traditions through food. Exploring her heritage as a third generation Ukrainian-American, Knox traveled to Ukraine to meet family members, conduct research, and gather artifacts. Through food, installation and performance, Knox further investigates her cultural identity and family history.

Audiences can interact with Knox at the following public programs during the exhibition:

March 1, 10:30 am-Noon: Gallery Talk with Art 365 Artists & Curator

April 17, 6-7:30 pm: Panel - Art 365 Artists

May 1, Noon-1 pm: Art Moves Artist Talk - Cultural Identity in Art with Alexandra Knox

May 10, 2-4 pm: Closing Reception with Brief Artist Tours

Guest curated by Raechell Smith, Art 365 opens February 28, 2014 (tonight!) at [Artspace] at Untitled, 1 NE 3^rd, Oklahoma City and will continue through May 10. The artwork then will be exhibited at the Hardesty Arts Center (AHHA)101 E Archer St, Tulsa May 23 through August 9, 2014.

Material Perceptions: Momentum OKC Artist Erin Raux

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 16:49:00 +0000

This post is part of our series on Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition's Momentum OKC 2014. Momentum exhibits Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger in a venue created specifically for them, helping them gain experience and meet new audiences. Today we are featuring Momentum artist Erin Raux from Norman, OK.

Laura Reese: What is your concept and inspiration for this piece in Momentum?
Erin Raux: Savoy Truffle and many other works I create are continually affected by a fluid social environment and the ever-changing definitions of gender. The inconsistency of how a person is perceived and how a person desires to be perceived weighs heavily in my practice. My work is an instinctive progression of gathering, sorting, and associating in order to evoke and define volume and space. Using a wide range of mainly domestic and mundane consumables, I explore their captivating qualities and sense of tactility in a manner that addresses humanity without utilizing the human form until recently. I have a desire to unite materials that are stereotypically labeled as feminine or masculine. I acquire materials from across social divisions to create new identity and re-define or invade predefined roles and preconceived notions.

Erin Raux, Norman, “Savoy Truffle”, found metal ring,
kneehighs, casted plaster teeth, wax, 12 X 12, $300

In the work I create, objects are accumulated and given a new form and community. The original products achieve new meaning, but they also are the bridge between the viewer and the new ideas and questions I propose. They are physical proof of our lives, and therefore allow viewers to connect with the work by way of their existing, past, and fantasy relationships with ordinary things. I seek to evoke a sense of wonder, humor, mischief and sexual innuendo through familiar, intrinsically understated objects.
Teeth are strange unique things, especially when they are removed from their original context, the body. Once removed from their origin I believe they address identity. Without scientific research, one cannot decipher whether the teeth belonged to a male or female, etc. In this way I feel the piece is masking identity or taking it away.

LR: Please explain the technique and/or process you used to create this work.
ER: I feel that a majority of my time spent in the studio is playing. I collect found objects and materials that are innately interesting to me. I spend my time addressing these objects and pairing them with others to create a dialogue. I found the metal ring, I love that rust! Through trial and error I then pulled a knee-high stocking over the ring. It’s amazing how far a knee-high can stretch. The teeth are plaster casts. I shoved them into the same kind of knee-high I used for the ring and dipped them in wax just over the teeth and then placed them inside the knee-high encased ring. The title Savoy Truffle comes from the Beatles song… “But you have to have them all pulled out after the Savoy truffle…”

LR: Is this work part of a series?
ER: I suppose it is because I’ve been using the teeth in other works, but I haven’t really thought of it as belonging to a series.

LR: Where else can audiences see your work?
ER: I have an upcoming show at the De Mattias Fine Art Center’s Steckline Gallery at Newman University in Wichita, Kansas on March 28th from 5pm-8pm. A selection of work can also be viewed @ erinraux.wix.com/erinraux

Place & Church: Eyakem Gulilat, Art 365

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Eyakem Gulilat, Art 365 Artist Video

Eyakem Gulilat, Norman

Art 365 Project: 11:00AM

Guililat received one of five Art 365 awards of $12,000 to produce new artwork for the Art 365 exhibition.

As an Ethiopian immigrant to Oklahoma, Gulilat observed the abundant presence of churches in the state and grew curious about the racial, political and socioeconomic relationships within and around churches. Using aerial photography, he documents church buildings and their surrounding neighborhoods on Sunday mornings, considering what they can tell us about ourselves, our patterns, and relationships.

Read more about him in this Art Focus Oklahoma article. Audiences can interact with Gulilat at the following public programs during the exhibition:

March 1, 10:30 am-Noon: Gallery Talk with Art 365 Artists & Curator

April 9, Noon-1 pm: Art Moves Artist Talk - About Place & Photography with Eyakem Gulilat
April 17, 6-7:30 pm: Panel - Art 365 Artists

May 8, 6-7:30 pm: Panel - Church Locations: Place, Architecture, Geography, Community
May 10, 2-4 pm: Closing Reception with Brief Artist Tours

Guest curated by Raechell Smith, Art 365 opens February 28, 2014 at [Artspace] at Untitled, 1 NE 3^rd, Oklahoma City and will continue through May 10. The artwork then will be exhibited at the Hardesty Arts Center (AHHA)101 E Archer St, Tulsa May 23 through August 9, 2014.