I was invited to write an article for the Buda Area Artists Collective to share my thoughts as a curator and an exhibiting artist.
Read the entire newsletter here: https://budaareaartistcoll.wixsite.com/website/post/baac-newsletter-~-vol-2?postId=60561a6928213e00153f231c
Artist’s Reflections: Leslie Kell on DIGIBILITIES
When the idea for an exhibit featuring digital art came into focus, I wanted to fill the space with projection videos and augmented reality. The challenge quickly became clear: the gallery is a brightly-lit space and making it dark was, well… un-natural. So, I had to re-focus. I decided to create a display to showcase a range of digital possibilities and make it informational; after all, it is an art center. I visualized a space that people could take some time with and experience the work with a museum-like vibe.
I invited five artists to contribute works that showed varied digital techniques. I worked with them to select the artworks, gather process statements and bios. I created small signs which I posted on the wall by their artwork so that visitors would be able to read about how they created their images. There is also a digital display that scrolls through artist bios, and even more artwork. QR codes accompany almost everything, making deeper dives into the artists and their practices as close as your phone.
When you walk into the space, there is a wooden sculpture with augmented reality on the left. You’ll see a wall card with a QR code to download the app that will change your life. In fact, I recommend you go ahead and download here and be ready to have your mind blown: https://linktr.ee/CarolineWalkerARt
The centerpiece of the exhibit is a TV mounted on the wall running five-minute videos of my cinemagraphs. You can have a seat and listen to the soothing sounds and lose yourself for about 15 minutes, or longer if you wish. Be sure to watch carefully, there are surprises.
You’ll also find a stack of 3D glasses! Not because any of the artwork is actually created for 3D, but it helps to look at the world through different colored glasses every now and then.
I used map pins to number the art work and set up a coordinating price list so the walls would not become too cluttered with art tags; so be sure to pick one up when you arrive to guide you through the works.
Of course, we must never forget to promote. I know that is a difficult thing for almost all of us artists. But it is a pain you can get used to if you push through. I created graphics and sample texts, complete with hashtag suggestions, for all involved. I also submitted to online listings and sent press releases several weeks before the opening. The week of the event I sent an email newsletter to my subscribers and collectors.
All of this was carefully scrawled and planned on a piece of letter sized paper (both sides) with lots of mess and mark outs, arrows and starred items. I wish for a formula to plan an exhibit, but every-one is a little different. The space is unique, the audience varies, the time of year even matters. Add in a pandemic and all the challenges that come with that, I have to admit to some sleep deprivation. But that’s just me.
The opening reception was a wonderful evening. I am so honored by the people that ventured out and visited the exhibit. I am grateful to Sinead and Susan for their consistent open-door policy and the overall carefree-kid-dog-vibe at the center! And I’m so thankful to Buda Area Artist Collective for boosting the signal in the area.
Exhibit name: DIGIBILITIES, the possibilities are endless
Show Dates: March 12 – April 17, 2021
Promo: this is what we used for online posts, lift any parts you feel are useful.
Please join Inspired Minds Art Center for a thought-provoking showcase of digital art that celebrates the possibilities of this contemporary medium.
Leslie Kell presents her exquisite artist masters from the Other Side Collection as well as her mesmerizing video art. She has curated a special group of guest artists who will share their beautiful digital works to highlight the diversity of the medium. Exhibiting artists include Lisa Zinna’s color crazy photo art; Chalda Maloff ‘s flowing digital paintings; Caroline Walker’s wooden sculptures with augmented reality; Paul McGuire’s Fractallography works and Ronald Gross’ pixel play.
You’ll want to experience this innovative collection of works at the Inspired Minds Art Center. Opening reception will be March 12. The exhibit will run through April 17, 2021.
Participating Artists:
lesliekell.com / @lesliekell
carolinewalker.com / @carolinewalkerstudio
Chalda.com / @chaldamaloffdigitalartist
paulmcguireart.com / @fractallographystudio
lisazinna.com / @lisa.zinna
twelvesquared.com / @im12squared
