The Artist Project, Toronto

I love going to art shows. I don't do it often enough... but when I do go I come home inspired, full of new ideas and itching to get back into my studio. This weekend I went down to Exhibition Place, in Toronto, and wandered through the Artist Project, taking in as much as I could.

How great is this texture? Achieved with layers of paint,
sandpaper and a nail. It's on a wood panel... somehow
I don't think canvas would stand up to this kind of abuse.

This is a fantastic show. As I went from booth to booth, talking to the artists and getting up close with the art, I took notes. There was much there for me to learn, and the artists were willing to share. I asked a lot of questions about technique, and came away with a lot of great ideas of things to experiment with. I love it when artists are willing to share how they achieved an effect. I know from experience that sometimes you try so many things that you can't always remember... working in series helps solidify things in your mind. It's such a hands on thing. I love talking with the artists at these shows... I've even made some friends in the process.

I love these colour combinations. Stephen Gillberry.

There were a lot of people wandering around at this show, and people were buying. Good to know. Every artist I talked to had sales. Maybe not huge sales, but something... enough to cover the cost of the booth at any rate. The show is hard to get into and it's expensive to be at, but it's also heavily promoted and advertised. It's nice to know that there is some interest.

This show is going on my list of shows to apply for. Even though the calibre of the art is somewhat intimidating, it would be good to know if I could get into a show like this. I don't think I'm there quite yet. My pieces aren't big enough, they don't have quite the same polish. But I'm close... maybe next year.....

This installation was awesome... I didn't write down the artist's name (I figured I had a program so I didn't have to, but then I couldn't figure it out because the spot wasn't really marked. If you know, please leave it in the comments). It is made out of old socks. There was an explanation about how she was sick of picking up other people's dirty socks, and this was her "gendered" statement..... I actually laughed out loud when I read it.  Very clever.

Alice Vander Vennen's fantastic textile work was captivating. Lots of copper wire and found object additions.