ATOA Website Archive
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There are so many things going on-- so much to question, to re-think, to solve. There's so much to talk about! (See calendar)
ATOA, like OIA, is having problems regarding the city wanting our space back. If you know of free (or nearly free) office space, please let us know asap. This is a time in the art community when we must come together more than ever because of economic pressures-- sharing space, sharing equipment, sharing in the effort of keeping it all going. (See February 2nd)
As artists, many of us are caught in our own personal & professional dilemmas. How can we hold on to our studios? Many of the artists concerned about the possible elmination of the loft law have been in their endangered spaces over 20 years-- not only has money been invested in them, but a half or third of their life has been spent making art there & (indirectly) raising the property value for the owners. Finding another space of equal size or cost in New York (or Brooklyn, or Jersey City) is unlikely. Maybe LA IS the place to go... or perhaps the woods would be better... for our creative spirits. (See March lst, 22nd & April 19th)
The artists working in our midst span seven decades. We barely speak the same language-- but we can learn-- through talking & listening to one another. How & where do we get our work out? What dealers will even look a 60 year old artist's work if it's never been seen or only in altemative spaces? (See April 20th) How can we be taken seriously if we are just beginning? How do we not become disillusioned by the fickle art world? (See February 16th, March 8th, May 17th)
And we are all so busy... dealing with aging parents, taking care of babies or learning new computers (See May 10th & llth) there's no time to have coffee with friends, unless we call it a meeting. (See April 12th) Looking at the general shape of the world today, it sometimes feels almost indulgent to make art, but we must constantly remind ourselves that it DOES make a difference. (See February 23rd, March 8th & 15th, April 28th.)
So, hoping to see you on Fridays, renewed by our talks, so that you can return to your studios & make your art.. And now & then, you deserve to go to a party! (see March 29th)
Vernita N'Cognita
ATOA Website Archive
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