Zach Bohnenkamp's Newest Wood Block Print

Zach Bohnenkamp is always hard at work. If it is not carving wood blocks for his latest prints, he working on creating murals. If it is not murals, then he is teaching spanish. Z.B. is always on the move and is one busy hombre. Here are a couple photos of Zach at work on his latest piece. Check out Zach's blog where you are most likely to see when this newest of new is available to the public. http://zachpowers.blogspot.com/

Lucien Knuteson: He Shoots People!

"Road Kill" by Lucien Knuteson


Stop by Gainsbourg across the street from Bherd Studios to see the thought-provoking and humorous photography of Lucien Knuteson. Gainsbourg is part of the 2nd Friday artwalk and it's a great place to grab a bite to eat before you get started or even for a late night cocktail and snack after the artwalk is over.

About the Artist:
I hang my hat on the west coast by I’m from Wisconsin, where I grew up riding my bike, playing in trees, and taking pictures. I still enjoy all these things, although I’m spending less time in trees these days. I try to make images that make people smile.

Also, and I mention this only because people often ask, “Lucien” is actually a French name (and I am not French) from the Latin word “lux”, which means “light”. That’s really quite a coincidence, as I feel relatively sure that my parents, careful though they are to plan ahead, could not be certain I would choose to pursue photography.

See more at lucienknuteson.com + facebook.com

Also check out an interview with the artist from Redefine Magazine



Bherd Studios @Gainsbourg
8550 Greenwood Ave N
Seattle, WA 98103
HOURS: Mon-Thu, Sun 11 am - 12 am; Fri-Sat 11 am - 2 am

Kate Protage Featured Seattle Artist at the Alexis Hotel

One of Kate Protage's most recently finished paintings that will be hanging at the Alexis Hotel.

Stop by the Alexis Hotel this Thursday, December 2nd from 5-6pm and kick-off the 1st Thursday artwalk with our new "Meet the Artist" event. The Alexis is within easy walking distance from a majority of 1st Thursday galleries and venues. Artist, Kate Protage will be in the lobby speaking with guests and artwalk attendees about her work and will have a selection of her paintings on display through the SAM rental gallery and the Bherd Gallery "Meet the Artist" program.

For non-guests, cocktails & other beverages are available at the Bistro & Bookstore Bar and can be brought into the lobby during the event. For hotel guests, this event is held in conjunction with the guest wine reception. This is a great chance to speak with Kate about how she creates her paintings from beginning to end. You'll definitely want to ask her about her evening photo shoots while driving!



Above are pieces from our "Take 5" exhibit that will be showing through December 24th at Bherd Studios Gallery. We will be taking a few of them along to show at the Alexis on Dec 2nd.



Artist Statement
I have a love/hate relationship with the cities in which I’ve lived. Everywhere I look, evidence of planning and structure exists simultaneously with chaos and unpredictability. Depending on the time of day, there are two worlds that exist in the same physical space: streets that appear gritty, dirty and depressing by day turn into an environment infused with a strange kind of lush, dark beauty and romance at night. Taking it all in can be both stressful and exciting, and I feel compelled to capture these moments and remember them.

What interests me most is the junction between sensation and fact—the way different objects come together, a combination of colors, lines and geometric shapes working together in a lyrical fashion to form intensely vivid, sometimes quite abstracted compositions. The origin of individual shapes becomes unimportant as color and texture take over, and different emotions emerge.

My paintings are the beginning of a story—a space that is somewhat recognizable and familiar, but leaves room for the story of the viewer’s choosing. Whether it feels magical and beautiful, or oppressive and ominous, that’s up to the viewer; but the plan is to take people to another place, one that’s part memory and part imagination, and provide them with a momentary escape.

I seek visual harmony, order and polish—in a tumultuous world, these are the things that keep me balanced, and they are the tools for my escape. I choose to pursue beauty.

Calling All Artists: Studio Now Available at The Greenwood Collective

We want you to be our new neighbor! Come join The Greenwood Collective Underground located in the heart of Greenwood. The Greenwood Collective underground area includes Bherd Studios, Echo Echo, Better Friends x Band Vibes, Palermo Gallery and Urban Light Studios. These galleries are always open during the second Friday of each month (6-9pm) for Art Up artwalk.


This space was most recently used as a web & graphic design office...






The space is approximately 270 sq/ft + additional closet space under the stairs. The space has a mini reception area/art gallery (see 1st photo above).

Studio is $475 a month + $50/mo utilities that includes water, sewer, garbage, electricity & internet. Twelve month lease + $350 security deposit (includes $100 non-refundable)
-secure building
-24/7 access
-easy street parking & some alley parking.

Here is our entryway/main floor to "The Underground"


About The Greenwood Collective:
The Greenwood Collective is a creative event and work space located in the heart of Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood. This group of independent creative professionals exchange knowledge, resources, and inspiration in an effort to strengthen their overlapping communities. In addition to the 3500 square foot architectural masterpiece on the main floor, you will find five unique studios and galleries in The Greenwood Collective underground. These galleries are always open during the second Friday of each month (6-9pm) for Art Up Greenwood-Phinney.


For a tour of the space, please email us at: gallery@bherdstudios.com

"Protection #6": John Osgood Time Lapse Video

"Protection #6" by John Osgood
6.5ft x 4ft
Aerosol on Wood
2010



This piece was created over the weekend and is part of a series called "Protection" that was started in 2001...

John Osgood paints the "Teacher's Pet" at Meadowdale High School

I bet you thought we were talking about a student! This morning, John did a live painting at Meadowdale High School for Ms. Van Berkom's photography class. John painted while the class documented the progress via time-lapse photography. Everyone enjoyed the project and Eddie is very pleased with his new portrait.




Above is a photo by professional photographer, Tom Kirkendall.




Above is the finished painting of "Eddie" who is Ms. Van Berkom's pet dog.

"Take 5", Echo Echo, "Happy Little Trees" and more at The GC: Fri. Nov 12 from 6-10pm

Bherd Studios Gallery presents "Take 5": An exhibit celebrating the power of 5 for the gift giving season. 15 artists have created a series of 5, 10 or 15 pieces sized at 5” x 5”, 5” x 10” or 10” x 10”. Anyone who buys 5 or more pieces are entered-to-win a free custom designed board from Signal Snowboards. As a bonus, buy 2 or more pieces and receive a 5% discount on your purchase. Featuring original artwork by Pacific NW urban contemporary artists: Zak Alexander, Zach Bohnenkamp, CASH, dear earthling, Marty Gordon, Jeremy Gregory, Ninjagrl, John Osgood, Kate Protage, Brian Ripp, Sensei 23, Chris Sheridan, Kellie Talbot, Siolo Thompson and Urban Soule. Exhibit stays up through Friday, December 24th.


Here's some sweet examples you'll find at the show...


"Naptime" by Ninjagrl
10" x 10"
Acrylic on Canvas
$150



"Heart Girl" by Brian Ripp
10" x 10"
Acrylic, Ink & Stitching
$165




"Red Bird Branch #7" by John Osgood
10" x 10"
Acrylic & Aerosol on Canvas
$115


Showing at our neighboring galleries...




Jeremiah Hammer (dear earthling), Chris Olson, and Andy Kline are beyond pleased to announce the grand opening of Echo Echo, their brand new art gallery in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle, Washington.

Featuring new works by each resident artist as well as brand new giclee prints and a few other surprises. DJs Awggie (Booty Resin) and Manos (Innerflight) will be providing the beats for your groovin' entertainment. This event will also be fully catered and a keg is on hand, at no cost. :)

In conjunction with the rest of the Greenwood Arts Collective, this artwalk is focused on bringing you affordable artwork with the upcoming holiday season in mind. Everything is marked down for this event only. This is a great opportunity to pick up something extra special for yourself or for someone you love.





Experience the "Joy of Painting" like you've never seen it before! A slew of very talented artists will be sharing their interpretations of the man, the myth, the legend....BOB ROSS!!!

Every artist, when asked to participate, got that special glimmer in their eye that can only happen when truly inspired! If you're down with Bob Ross even slightly, you won't want to miss this!

participants include:
179
Joe "2h" McSween
Augie Pagan
Kali Meadows
Keith Noordzy
Peekaboo
Weirdo
Joe Vollan
Jeffrey Taylor
Carlos Aguilar
J.P. Farquar
Jeremy Gregory
Jose Rodriguez III
Sly Cooley
Quincy Quigg
Xavier Lopez Jr.
Mat Savage
Solace
...and more!




Featuring a collection of photographs by Joel Fraser.


All Galleries are located inside:
The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103

Siolo Thompson at Gainsbourg: Fri, Nov 12 from 6pm - late

"Saturn" by Siolo Thompson

Stop by Gainsbourg this Friday during the Art Up monthly artwalk. We're featuring new work by Seattle artist Siolo Thompson, who recently returned from a painting stint in London. Her show will be up until December 8th at Gainsbourg and she is also a part of our "Take 5" show in our gallery also opening Friday, Nov 12th.

Gainsbourg
8550 Greenwood Ave N
Seattle, WA 98103


Artist Bio:
Thompson is a visual artist, writer and animator based in Seattle, WA. As an artist she focuses primarily on the human form and always tries to incorporate a strong sense of narrative to her work. She wants each image she creates to have a story book feel to it, that draws the viewer into a different world. She often uses animals and magical elements in her paintings and tries to explore the relationships that we have to nature and the sublime. She consideres herself a bit promiscuous as an artist and often ventures into film, animation and creative writing.

For this series of new work showing at Gainsbourg, she is focusing on mechanical and robotic imagery. She utilizes a beautiful pallete of vibrant colors which heightens the fantasy-esque realms that entices viewers to escape within.

Health Resources for Artists: Free Seminar on Nov 8th

Not sure how to get health insurance?
Think you can’t afford insurance?
Confused about how health care reform affects you?


Plan to attend …

Getting and Keeping Health Insurance
Finding Health Care Resources
When You’re Uninsured
with Daniel Kitowski, M.S.W.,
Manager, Artists Health Insurance Resource Center
The Actors Fund

Monday, November 8
6:30pm to 8:00pm


Gibson Guitar Showroom
87 Wall Street, Floor One
Seattle, WA 98121

Topics include:

· Finding affordable health insurance
· Getting health care when you’re uninsured
· Government-subsidized programs
· Understanding health care reform

THIS EVENT IS FREE AND GUESTS ARE WELCOME

* Door prizes for attendees!!! (While they last…)

Space is limited! Register today by calling 1-800-687-4227 or e-mail brettb@grammy.com (be sure to include your name and contact info)

Getting and Keeping Health Insurance is offered by the Artists Health Insurance Resource Center (www.ahirc.org), a program of The Actors Fund which assists visual and performing artists in understanding their options for finding affordable health insurance

Art call to Seattle Area Artists

Want to display some of your art and cool handmade/crafty goods Nov 15th thru Dec 24th in Belltown?
Be part of the 123 Bell Street local Holiday Show!

If you'd like to be a participant at this Art event please email (123 Bell Street) your website and contact info and 3-6 jpg images of what you'd like to sell at the show. Email to: kim@123bell.com(this is a juried show,no application fee)

If accepted, you will receive an email with additional information about the show and confirmation no later than Nov 6th 2010. Space is open to local (Seattle and outlying areas) handmade arts and crafts which will be displayed Boutique/Bazaar style, November 15th through December 24th.

*Additional info to know: 30% Commission is taken on final sales. Location will be the 2nd floor of 123 Bell Street (above Bedlam Coffee) in the beautiful Belltown neighborhood of Seattle. Merchandise drop off will be November 8th -12th, 10am-8pm. Once accepted, have tags with prices, your name and info on all items along with your application and inventory sheet.

http://123bell.com

POW featuring Michelle Anderst

Our featured Piece of the Week (POW) is a beautiful and strange amalgamation of the cochlea and orchid.


"Auricular Apparatus"
by Michelle Anderst
12" X 16"
Oil on Canvas
$385

This piece is currently being exhibited in our gallery as part of the "Inside Out" show that will be up through Friday, November 5th. Auricular Apparatus is a perfect blending of the organic and mechanical that Anderst is so well known for. I am particularly drawn to this piece by the spiral shape of the cochlea backdropped behind the blooming orchid. Both the orchid and the cochlea bring about a delicate look with the mechanical apparatus and circuitry balancing out the piece with an industrial feel. Maybe this is a machine that is meant to hear the beauty of nature. Perhaps it's needed in this world, as many of us have lost our sense of union with nature? Or could this simply be a reminder of how nature and human anatomy reflecting each other.


Artist Statement:

I am currently exploring the relationships between organic structure, such as bones and beetles, to man-made structures that achieve the same functions using similar structural elements. One example is the end point of a circuit, called a lead, located on a computer board looks very similar to a nerve cell ending called a bouton. Both structures serve the purpose of communicating electronic signals but one is built by man and the other occurs naturally. I use wallpaper in my compositions to enhance and compare the elegance that I see in bones, veins and nerves. I want viewers of my artwork to think about the patterns and beauty in these parts of our bodies instead of seeing them as a reference to death.

I have learned thus far that my paintings are a direct result of my experiences as an only child. My childhood was spent in an environment free of unnecessary stimulation with many afternoons of solitude and quiet. Instead of watching television I poured over my father's anatomy books. At the age of 9, I took it upon myself to memorize all the bones in the body because they intrigued me. I spent much of my time preoccupying myself through observation which led to the depiction of scenes filled with solitude, self reflection and nostalgia.



Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
www.bherdstudios.com

Hours: Wed - Fri from 12pm - 6pm + private tours by prior arrangement.

November: DIY Screen-Printing Class on Sat, Nov 6 from 11:30am-2pm

We're happy to say that we're putting together an upcoming Do-It-Yourself screen-printing class on Saturday, November 6th from 11:30am - 2pm at our studio.




We will teach you the basics of Do-It-Yourself screen printing, including how to create a successful image, screen prep, screen exposure, and proper techniques on transferring your image onto a t-shirt. By the end of this class you will have all the information you'll need to screen-print from your home. The class fee is $30 per person and if you'd like to buy a blank shirt, we have adult sizes in men's and women's for $5 extra. If you'd like to sign up, email us at gallery@bherdstudios.com to make a reservation – you’ll be sent a link to paypal to reserve your spot –or- we can make other payment arrangements if you call us (206) 234-8348.

If this class date doesn't work for you, we will offer another class towards the beginning of next year. Also, the minimum class size is 6 and max is 8, so if you have a group that is interested in making this into an event, we can plan a date together tailored to your group (pricing is the same).


Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
www.bherdstudios.com

Gallery Hours: Wed - Fri from noon-6pm

You're Invited to Attend the New Aurora Mural Celebration: Sat, Oct 16

New Mural Supports Aurora Businesses and Relays a Safety Message

(SEATTLE) A new mural at 10217 Aurora Avenue N has come to life on the side of North Park Grocery. Community members and businesses along with the city and state envision Aurora as a street full of thriving businesses and shoppers – one with a vibrant, safe business center that attracts local residents to walk and bike to stores and restaurants for their weekly shopping and entertainment. To encourage this, artwork is being added along the corridor.

The 10 x 50 foot mural represents growth through sunflowers, businesses and a future RapidRide bus. Safe travel behavior is modeled by a woman on a scooter wearing a helmet waiting for a people to cross the street and the Aurora Traffic Safety Project logo in the upper right hand corner. If one looks closely they will also find familiar landmarks such as the recently restored elephant at Aurora Rents. Behind it all is the sun rising, capturing the spirit of Aurora which means “dawn.”

“My customers come in all shapes and sizes and many are working hard to improve their lives,” said Chaesun Osaka, the owner of North Park Grocery. “This mural represents how Aurora and the people who live and work here are growing and changing.”

The public is invited to come, meet the artists and fellow neighbors, learn more about the Aurora Traffic Safety Project and enjoy free coffee and light snacks.

When: Saturday, October 16
Where: 10217 Aurora Street at North Park Grocery
Time: 10 a.m.

This is the second of two murals. The first mural was a temporary installation in the windows of an empty storefront. Within three weeks of the installation being placed, the property was rented. A new location for the mural is now being sought. Zach Bohnenkamp, John Osgood and Kevin Sullivan from Bherd Studios and Matamuros were commissioned for both jobs.

Sustainable Green Lake, Greenwood Aurora Involved Neighbors (GAIN), Epic Life Church, the city of Seattle and Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WSTC) made this mural possible through grants and volunteer hours. This project is funded in part by a Neighborhood Matching Fund award of the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods and through the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and Aurora Traffic Safety Project. The project was created to help Aurora gain a competitive edge in tough economic times by making improvements along Aurora Avenue; to attract attention to the business district; to improve public perceptions of Aurora; to encourage consumers to come to Aurora for their shopping needs; and to improve the sustainability and safety of the neighborhood by contributing to the walkability and bikability of the neighborhood business district.

"Inside Out" Artist Reception, Oct 8 from 6-10pm featuring Anderst, Sheridan & Vollan

Come by tonight from 6-10pm and meet the artists for this months art exhibit "Inside Out".

Presenting the urban contemporary work of Seattle artists: Michelle Anderst, Chris Sheridan and Joe Vollan. Each artists work is themed around the inner workings of the mechanical, human anatomy and the soul.

The opening reception is held in conjunction with the 2nd Friday Monthly Artwalk in Greenwood-Phinney as well as with October’s Arts Crush festival.




Anderst explores the relationships between organic structure such as bones, veins & nerves to man-made structures such as circuitry and computer boards. She’s known for pairing “the insides” with old fashioned vintage wallpaper which creates an unusual feminine elegance to her compositions.




Sheridan’s work explores the essence of humanity and the soul. His work depicts scenes from myths and folklore that teach about morality, as well as delving into the insights of human nature. His strong illustrative background provides beautifully crafted imagery on oil and canvas.




Vollan uses his signature style of surreal and macabre scenes that are inhabited by skeletal animals and robots to evoke a sense of wonderment, relevant to the fantastic and bizarre worlds he creates.




Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N | Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
www.bherdstudios.com

Hours of operation: Wed - Fri from 12pm - 6pm

Meet Seattle Stencil Artist Urban Soule at Victrola on Thurs, Oct 14th

Come meet Seattle Stencil artist Soule at her Solo show at:
Victrola on Pike
310 East Pike St
Seattle,WA

Artist Reception October 14th 5-8pm
(Opening during BLITZ! Capitol Hill Arts Walk)
http://urbansoule.com/

The show will hang the full month of October so don't miss out!

P.O.W. featured artist: Troy Gua

"La Dada Gaga" by Troy Gua
12" x 12" x 2"
Ltd. ed. resin coated lightjet metallic print
on cradled hardboard
$275

For our Piece of the Week (POW) feature we're highlighting "La Dada Gaga" by the talented pop artist Troy Gua. Frankly, I'm surprised this one wasn't plucked up the night of the exhibit opening for "You're So Vain". Which, by the way, is still on display through Friday, so if you haven't seen the show, you still have time to swing by before it's gone. This piece is particularly fitting for the exhibits theme, with the combination of the ever so vain Lady Gaga and the world renowned and classic smirking beauty, Mona Lisa. It's clear that not only is Troy talented at picking clever iconic combinations, but has a wonderful sense of humor.


BIO
Troy Gua was born and raised in Seatac, Washington. He’s a libra. He prefers the term self-actualized to self-taught, but will answer to either. Although initially uncomfortable with being labeled a Pop artist, he has recently accepted it and is growing fond of it. His latest recurring dream is of giant cheeseburgers populating the planet.


STATEMENT
Radio Edit: I’m a Pop Conceptualist producing work in a wide range of media, marrying the commercial and contemporary, conveying a glossy design aesthetic with a keen sense of humor. My subject matter deals with the layering of identities, cultural critique and commentary, celebrity obsession and the universal human need for recognition. (For the extended re-mix click HERE).


Because I couldn't resist showing the rest of the Gua pieces...


(Loves "The Kims" Kim Jong Il + Lil Kim)


Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
www.bherdstudios.com
Gallery Hours: Wed - Fri from 12-6pm and by request.

P.O.W. Feature: Urban Artist & Comic Illustrator, Brian Thies

"Mrs. Aloof" by Brian Thies
13" x 19"
Limited Edition, Signed & Numbered Print
$25


For our Piece of the Week (POW) installment we are featuring a print by Brian Thies, a Seattle urban artist and comic book illustrator. "Mrs. Aloof" is one of two limited edition prints that we currently have in our gallery for the "You're So Vain" exhibit (in addition to a original oil on canvas painting entitled "Agent XZ-35"). I enjoy the contrast in this piece between the darkness of her hair and the white space left on almost half the page. The light playing off her hair and the shadows on her face ellicit a photographic essence to the piece. Her facial features and eyes do appear to be lost in her own thoughts, unconcerned about anything going on around her, thus her fitting title... Mrs. Aloof.


A small bit about Brian Thies:

The comic book is an art form still very much in it's infancy. As an artist, as a storyteller it's one of the few platforms I feel I can make an honest expression. It's a dialect that is direct and intuitive, sexy and monstrous.
(We couldn't find a proper bio, this bit was taken from his blog "About" section.)


Come by and see his work in person during the exhibit running through Friday, Oct 1st. We will be open Wednesday and Thursday this week (closed Sept 24) and Wed - Fri of next week (Sept 29 - Oct 1) from noon-6pm.

Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
www.bherdstudios.com

Chris Crites "The Bag Painter": POW Feature

If you haven't seen Chris Crites' work before, it's time to get acquainted. I had seen his work around Seattle and was very interested in meeting him and finding out more. It seemed like everytime we'd go to one of his openings, we would just miss him - funny timing apparently on our part. We even walked into a gallery down in San Francisco on a visit and ran into his work in a group show called Dark Americana. I felt a little taunted by this accidental viewing (ha, ha, here is that artist you've been wanting to meet).


"Breaking Into Various Dwellings. Theft." by Chris Crites
12" x 10"
Acrylic on Paper Bag
$900
2010

When Kate Protage & Chris Sheridan were putting together the line-up for the "You're So Vain" exhibit and they confirmed that Chris was in the show, my first question was: is he going to be there for the opening? Aha! I would finally meet him. (It was very nice to meet you Chris).

For our POW (Piece of the Week) installment I selected "Breaking Into Various Dwellings. Theft". From the toussled hair, to the folds in his jacket and that look of regret on his face, the detailing of this piece gives it a 3-d appearance. The piece as I mentioned, is part of the "You're So Vain" (you probably think this art is about you) exhibit that runs through Friday, October 1st. Crites has an additional piece in the show among several other excellent Seattle artists (and 1 from SF). Please stop by before the show ends.


Artist Statement

Years ago I saw a book of black and white crime photographs from the past. I found it amazing. The characters and crime scenes looked like surreal glimpses into the history of human interaction. Much more intriguing for me were the mug shots. Portraits of people who had just been caught. Despair, frustration, anger – so many expressions could be read on the faces. Each one of these images has a story. Often times I have no idea what the real story is, but it’s hard not to make one up. One of the reasons I paint them is to bring out another possible story, for people to look at and think about. The majority of the images I base my paintings on are from the 1890’s through 1950’s.

Originally I began using charcoal and white conte´ crayon on paper bag. The way the wrinkles, folds and texture added to the piece really appealed to me. In 1999 I painted my first 4 mug shots in acrylic on paper bag with a limited palette of 5 colors each. Paper bag has been my main substrate ever since. Brightly colored acrylics have a different effect on the brown bag than on a typical white backing.

I try to bring new life to these practically discarded portraits of criminal and human history. Using an everyday, disposable item as the surface gives new life to the bag as well. It is my hope to get people thinking about the past, their present, and how we all affect both.


Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
http://www.bherdstudios.com/
Open Wed - Fri from 12-6pm

"You're So Vain" (you probably think this art is about you): Artist Opening Tonight Fri, Sept 10th 6-10pm

Come out and meet the artists tonight from 6-10pm! Featuring the work of: Daniel Carrillo, Jonathan Collis, Chris Crites, Troy Gua, Lucien Knuteson, Wyatt Landis, Mary McIntyre, John Osgood, Brian Thies, Joey Veltkamp, Redd Walitzki and Daniel John Williams.



"Agent x2-35" by Brian Thies
33" x 31"
Oil on Canvas
$1000

About the Exhibit:

Seattle artists Kate Protage and Chris Sheridan team up to curate their 2nd show at Bherd Studios Gallery in September. "You're So Vain" looks at more than 10 different artists' interpretations of portraiture in the modern art world, and how their technical, stylistic and symbolic choices reflect the "truths" of their subjects.

Protage and Sheridan have chosen to display a wide range of styles and genres in "You're So Vain," with work ranging from urban contemporary to pop surrealism to classical, and everything in between. Artists address a variety of different thematic concepts behind modern portraiture-humor, vanity, morality, spirituality and social commentary to name a few-and reveal the fact that portraiture is not bound to a single, tightly defined space in contemporary art. It is everywhere, and can mean many things.

"You're So Vain" runs from September 10th to October 1st at Bherd Studios Gallery in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle.

Bherd Studios Gallery

@ The Greenwood Collective

8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1

Seattle, WA 98103

www.bherdstudios.com

POW: Redd Walitzki in "You're So Vain" exhibit opening this Fri, Sept 10th

For our piece of the week (POW) feature we wanted to highlight Redd Walitzki's "Specimen 1 - monstrum couturea" which is in our "You're So Vain" exhibit opening Friday, Sept 10th.


"Specimen 1 - monstrum couturea" by Redd Walitzki
Archival Digital Giclée / Mixed Media / Oils on Panel
30" x 34" (framed)
$1200

Ethereal crêpe de chine gown, ($11,260); Galliano for Dior. Burgundy leather tote, ($2,490); Prada. Formaldehyde, magnesium chloride, deoxygenated water, sodium bezonate. Bloodstone cocktail ring, ($865); Yves Saint Laurent. Akoya pearl strand, ($5,500); Mikimoto. Beauty Note: Soft pink blush brings a spark to a drowned complexion, and a sheer gloss adds fragile glamour (Shu Uemura pearl foundation and blush, Christian Dior lipgloss in Asphyxia).

2010


I fell for this piece the moment I saw it. It's delicate and ephemeral imagery illicits that feeling of vanity and hunger for luxury that gives such fleeting satisfaction. Not that I would know the kind of luxury that's entailed in Redd's piece, but I think most women have exprienced "retail therapy" and the temporary bubble of self confidence a new outfit, purse, shoes, etc., give you. However, less than a day later, you come to the realization that your boyfriend is still sleeping with that two-bit hussy, you still want to lose 10 pounds and that damn zit on your forehead still rearing it's ugly head.

There is a sister piece that is also in the show called "Specimen 2 - monstrum modae", the two pieces together are a perfect pairing, both encased in a gilded ornamental frame. You must come by and see these dahhhling...



About the Artist:

Pattern shaping beautiful surfaces. Sweet disguising sharpness.
Superficial, superflat, superfabulous. All art is at once surface and symbol.
Those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril.
I am creating a daydream of beautiful aberrations
that evoke themes of neoteny, desire for perfection
and the abject/beautiful dynamic.”

Redd has worked with multiple genres of the arts,ranging from painting, sewing, digital media, video animation, photography, and ball-jointed-doll faceups to name a few. Her elegant style is a signature characteristic of her work; featuring much of her former teaching, discipline and background. Redd graduated from Cornish College of the Arts in 2007. She is a working artist originally from Germany,now living in Pioneer Square (Seattle’s artist district).


Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
http://www.bherdstudios.com/

P.T.S. Session #1: Solace Wonder, Seattle Urban Contemporary Artiste

If you know us, you probably have been hearing some rumblings about this project for a couple months now. We are proud to say that we have put out our 1st session of P.T.S. (aka "Peep This Studio") featuring Solace Wonder. Take a moment to check it out:




Artist Bio:

SOLACE
sol·ace [ sólləss ]

1. relief from emotional distress: comfort at a time of sadness, grief, or disappointment

2. source of comfort: somebody or something that provides comfort at a time of sadness, grief, or disappointment


I call myself an urban artist or street artist because my work is influenced by street culture and highly inspired by graffiti. While graffiti is normally rooted in letterforms, I lean towards the character design element. My pacific-northwest surroundings instill a respect for nature that is personified in my work. Via organic textures, vibrant colors, and a graphic painterly approach, I attempt to meld city life with the tranquility of uninhabited lands. Through a blend of mediums, aerosol propelled and acrylic, I concoct my background landscapes and finish them with the character design. I call my characters "wanders." The wanders are unique in perspective and rely on body language over facial expression to tell their story. I am always looking to progress my style and increase my stable of characters while challenging conventional mediums. The mediums most utilized at this time are canvas, large-scale mural production, custom vinyl toys, original plush toys, and live painting.


About P.T.S. Sessions
P.T.S. is the latest project of Bherd Studios Gallery as a way to document and promote Seattle urban contemporary artists and the scene that is continuing to blossom in our area. We are currently working with artists who have previously shown in our gallery and our goal is to produce a monthly P.T.S. Session that will be posted on our blog and promoted through our social media.

1st Thursday: Deli Gallery + Bumbershoot: Pecha Kucha, Portrait Challenge & Street Biennale

The beginning of September is chock full of visual delights! We hope you'll make this a stop on your 1st Thursday artwalk schedule...



Zach Bohnenkamp & Sensei 23 of Matamuros + John Osgood of Bherd = a DELIcious exhibit of colorful urban art. The three of them are collaborating on a install piece that they will be unveiling for the show. Also, if you haven't been by lately, Deli in Pioneer Square is now a full on art gallery, their clothing store is up on 1st across from the Seattle Art Museum. So be sure to stop by and check out the new layout!



Don't forget, Bumbershoot is not just about the music, make sure to check out these 3 great visual feasts for the eyes!



Pecha Kucha: "Evil Schemes/Evil Deeds"
Audience: literary & visual arts
Area: Leo K Theatre

Pecha Kucha began in 2003 in Tokyo as a way for young designers to network and showcase their work. Drawing its name from the Japanese term for the sound of "chit chat," it consists of a simple presentation structure: 20 images x 20 seconds each. Six artists from different disciplines will follow this format centered on the theme "Evil Schemes/Evil Deeds," with the artists talking about each slide as it is displayed. Presenters include painter and independent curator Chris Crites, photographic-based artist and curator Nichole DeMent, figurative oil painter Chris Sheridan, performance artist Ilvs Strauss, multimedia artist and poet Nico Vassilakis, and urban contemporary painter John Osgood.





Portrait Challenge
Curated by Ryan Molenkamp
NW Rooms

One page, one picture of a notable model, six empty boxes and a challenge to draw the model. This is the essence of the Portrait Challenge, started in 2002 by artist and security chief at the Frye Art Museum, Ryan Molenkamp. Bumbershoot attendees will have the opportunity to draw their unique interpretation, realistic rendering, insightful caricatures, or just silly pictures and conceptual musings of the model, or opt to participate as the model and see how other people render their portrait.





Location: NW Rooms

Seattle Street Biennale 2010 is a selection of Seattle's most respected street talent, featuring large site-specific works by Katsu, Aerub, Ego, Angel179, Baldman Watching, and Joey Nix, plus other local artists will contribute smaller pieces, making this an installation that takes viewers on a visual experience that is confusing and beautiful. Reflecting the vast subculture known as street art, the methods employed span from spray paint to wheat paste.

Bherd Studios Collaboratorium Project: Now Open!

We've started a new art project at Bherd Studios called The Collaboratorium. We are looking for urban contemporary artists located anywhere in the globe to join the project. We're setting up a match and meet area on Facebook for artists who are interested in collaborating on works together to encourage meeting new artists and sharing ideas.

Last Chance - POW!

Okay all you procrastinators, you've had almost (2) months to come out and see the "Character Development" exhibit and if you didn't stop by, you still have until Friday to check it out. For this weeks installment of POW (Piece of the Week) we are featuring a perfect trio of pieces by Canadian artist, Chris Brett.


"Lie, Cheat & Steal" by Chris Brett
14" x 11" (set of 3)
Mixed Media on Wood
$700

Our gallery is open Wed - Fri from noon-6pm. Stop by and check out the show before it's gone. Plus we got some goods from Scion to hand out, flip flops, athletic socks and cd's (no purchase necessary to get some).


Bherd Studios Gallery
@ The Greenwood Collective
8537 Greenwood Ave N Suite 1
Seattle, WA 98103
www.bherdstudios.com

Osgood-Ashby Collab: POW!

For our Piece of the Week installment, we are featuring a collaboration between John Osgood and CASH which is currently showing at the Twilight Artist Collective in West Seattle.


"Snails" by CASH & John Osgood
10" x 10"
Acrylic & Aerosol on Canvas
$180


About the "John y CASH" Exhibit:
Two of Twilight’s favorite urban contemporary artists, John Osgood and CASH (aka Curtis Ashby) unite for this two-man collaboration.Osgood’s collection of colorful & odd characters are inspired by life and the uncomfortable, forlorn and many times humorous circumstances that happen within it. Cash’s paintings reflect the textures of the city as well as the colors and spontaneity found in nature. For this show, John & Cash, will bring their individual styles to create artworks which intermingle their unique imagery.

The exhibit continues through Monday, September 6th.

Greenwood-Phinney Summer Streets + Art Up Photo Recap

Last Friday, August 13th the streets were opened up to pedestrians and all kinds of activities including live painting.

7 artists + 3 large panels (double-sided) + 3 hours to create = a collaborative cornacopia of color!

Artists involved: Augie Pagan, CASH, Tessa Hulls, Solace, John Osgood and Sensei23 & Zach Bohnenkamp of Matamuros.


Augie Pagan



Solace at work







Augie Pagan in progress



Zach B & Sensei23 of Matamuros



Sensei23



CASH



John Osgood & Tessa Hulls



Zach Bohnenkamp