Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what is your vision as an artist?

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

Q: What does exhibiting at Art Santa Fe 2024 mean to you?

Art Santa Fe is incredibly important to me. It’s my first time in the southwestern United States sharing my work. Im out of my comfort zone. I have no established base here, no fans, yet grateful to be here. My plan over the past two years is to get out of my Florida comfort zone and start growing in other areas. Santa Fe was a perfect match. I’ve put a ton of heart into the Kress Collection Gallery.

You can find my art and journey on Instagram @mattkressart and website https://mattkress.art

The post Meet the Artist: Matt Kress, The Kress Collection Gallery appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is? What is your background?

A: A retired architect residing in New Mexico for most of the last 50 years, I am living a lifelong calling, to be a fine artist. I believe we cannot live without art.  Whether it is music, film, dance, or visual art, it feeds our soul. I strive to make art that reaches, touches, and connects us to ourselves and others. I have chosen the language of abstract art, a language like no other, with no dictionary to translate it but is open to each individual’s imagination and interpretation. Unlike architecture, there are no constraints. Total freedom is a refreshing change.

My background significantly influences my art. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, a place with honest, hardworking people. My dream, even as a young child, was to become an architect. With encouragement from my family, I attended Franklin and Marshall College where I studied art history and perfected studio skills that prepared me to pursue an M Arch from the University of New Mexico. I became licensed and through a very successful and rewarding, 40-year architectural practice, I was able to design a diverse portfolio of projects and achieve a fellowship in the American Institute of Architects. In 2020, I retired and now realizing another dream, to be a fine artist.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My architectural training and practice taught me a way of thinking. I value simplicity. I’m fascinated by geometry, strong shape and form. My focus is composition. I’m not a fan of making “wallpaper” by creating amorphous or repetitive patterns. I believe, like a good building considers and organizes both the positive (interior) and negative (exterior) space, a good painting does the same. Regarding color and contrast, the high desert environment of the southwest inspired and awakened my creative sensibilities. What can be more visually powerful than an orange sky with purple clouds? Or the lush green, life-filled forest of the Rio Grande moving through rocky earthen, parched mountains? Those contrasts and others are compelling.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am most inspired by Richard Diebenkorn, a genius in composition and color. Never constrained by formalistic rules, he used the entire canvas in unpredictable ways. He was a master of creating strong shapes and forms. He was not afraid to use any color adjacent to any other. His use of line created movement while also contrasting simple planes of color. Like many great artists, he was a rule-breaker for his time. We know he challenged the status quo at the University of New Mexico when he was there in 1950. No adobes adorned with chiles for him. That inspires me.

I’m inspired by many other artists but most notably, the dramatic work of JMW Turner, the color and techniques of Cezanne, Monet and Matisse, and the boldness and simplicity of Franz Kline. Lately, I am enamored with the spontaneity of contemporary artist, David Mankin.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: My architectural training taught me to always say, “What if” never relying on one idea. But the best advice that I struggle to comply with daily tells me to not overthink, to follow my own instincts, and to not be afraid to make an ugly painting. Mistakes are opportunities.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: Residing in Albuquerque, you can find me with my family and friends enjoying New Mexico’s scenery and perfect weather. Or traveling to see and experience new places that recharge me.

Q: What does exhibiting at Art Santa Fe 2024 mean to you?

A: I’ve been painting in earnest now for about 5 years. Although I have successfully shown my work locally, I’m exhibiting in Art Santa Fe to finally test the waters with a broader audience. The truth is, that artists are constantly looking for validation. I hope I get it here.

The post Art Santa Fe 2024 Spotlight Artist Recipient: Bill Sabatini appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is? What is your background?

A: My name is Vivienne Riggio, I am a Santa Fe-based sculptor. My artistic journey is a testament to a life infused with observation and the transformation of the mundane into the extraordinary. As a way of manifesting my vision, I fabricate large-scale mythical creatures that connect us to another time, another place.

I draw from my experience in operatic costuming and apparel design and use traditional Southwestern embroidery techniques, sheep’s wool up-cycled paper, and unusual objects.

My desire is that these shaman-like sculptures evoke a departure from conventional imagery to an unfamiliar place of wonder. Ultimately, I hope the viewer connects with that other place, a departure from their day-to-day thinking. For some these pieces take on a lifelike presence and others just enjoy the craftsmanship and appreciate them just as a work of art.

Born in Murphysboro, Illinois, my path to becoming an artist was as intuitive as it was inevitable. From my earliest memories, I was captivated by shapes, images, and designs, finding intrigue and expression in the arts from a tender age. My childhood, characterized by introspection and a deep internalization of my surroundings, laid the foundation for a unique artistic language, which I began articulating through three-dimensional art as early as five years old.

My grandparents emigrated to the US from Southern Italy and eventually settled in the Midwest. Their daily lives, though extreme from what Sicilia offered, gave them sustenance and a sense of belonging to something larger. 

In the late fifties, my parents heeded the California call and settled in the Bay Area, a small town ripening with revolutionary fervor. As teens, my siblings and I drank up the culture outside our front door questioning nothing and everything.

This is a small taste of what I inherited and was exposed to. As a young girl, I stood back and observed family dynamics, Catholicism, and academics and spent much of my time creating unusual art as a way of processing and expressing. It’s been that way ever since.

In my late thirties, I discovered New Mexico after a summer of picking fruit in British Columbia. Once landed outside of Albuquerque, I worked at the state fair, at restaurants, and wrote short stories. After a gig at the Santa Fe Opera as a seasonal worker in the costume shop, my artistic vision leaped toward larger dimensional pieces. I eventually settled in Santa Fe, but not before going back and forth to the West Coast and moving where my work took me.

I dedicated my career to labor rights, traveling to factories throughout Latin America, Asia, and North America, interviewing workers and factory owners. I’m now a permanent resident and live a stone’s throw from the Santa Fe River.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: The core of my artistic philosophy lies in the genuine, unfiltered interaction with the world around me. Whether I am surrounded by the tranquility of nature or immersed in the vibrant energy of a city, every experience is a wellspring of inspiration. My art is a means of distilling these experiences, transforming them into a language of shapes, textures, and forms that resonate on a visceral level. This process is not just about creation but is a form of communication, a way of sharing my perspective and inviting others to see the world through a different lens.

What motivates me to create is the endless potential for transformation—an object, a piece of fabric, or a fleeting image can become a conduit for profound expressions and conversations. I aim to create art that not only captivates visually but also engages on an emotional and intellectual level, prompting reflection and eliciting a sense of wonder. Through my work, I strive to offer a moment of connection, an opportunity for viewers to engage with their surroundings and their inner selves in new and unexpected ways.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Magdalena Abakanowicz for her ingenuity to repurpose and courage to go big. Bette Saar to bring renewed life to the discarded. Louise Bourgeois for her courage to express sensuality and objects that cause a reaction in viewers. Graciela Iturbide- for her photographs of rural Mexican women. Christian LeCroix and Alexander McQueen for their otherworldly fashion

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Q: Introduce yourself – who you are and what your vision as an artist is? What is your background?

A: More than a printmaker, or painter, I think of myself as an image maker. My background is in fashion design and pattern making. I worked in the ‘rag trade’ designing clothing and traveling all over the third world to see how well these designs were put together.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I enjoy working in the studio on various media including printmaking and painting as well as collage.  I am drawn to historic female characters; strong women and what I imagine that they would wear.

I create, I do not quantify or measure time, I work until the artwork speaks to me and tells me it is complete. It’s a joyful calling. I know that my audience is the world’s smallest and that I am not attempting a mass-market appeal. I listen to my imagination and I try to stay on a flow that avoids tributaries and tangents. What I ask myself each time I come near completion of an artwork is: is this piece remarkable? That’s how I measure.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am inspired by many of the modernists, especially the Santa Fe and Taos modernists of the early 20^th century. Also, I love to look at ancient manuscripts and illuminations for pattern, and composition. The Ukiyo-e Japanese woodcut print artists are always a delight to look at and I am drawn to contemporary public-art artists such as Shepard Fairey and emerging black artists such as Delita Martin and Bisa Butler.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I’ve received is from a professor in my Masters Degree program who told me to see more and paint less. On a more business-of-art direction I listen to Seth Godin, Akimbo podcast and find value in his philosophy about the world’s smallest audience and being authentic and remarkable with my work.

Q: What does exhibiting at Art Santa Fe 2024 mean to you?

A: Exhibiting at Art Santa Fe means a lot to me in that it is an opportunity to show with an Event Company that has great experience and a track record of putting on well-marketed and well-designed shows of high-caliber artists. I am hoping to find a small audience of galleries and collectors who are interested in purchasing and representing my artwork. 

The post Art Santa Fe Spotlight Recipient: Ouida Touchon appeared first on Art Business News.

The post Art Santa Fe 2024 Shines the Spotlight on Four Amazing Artists appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

A: My vision as an artist is to create captivating and impactful images that not only showcase the beauty of fashion but also tell compelling stories and leave a lasting impression on the viewers.

I am driven by a passion for storytelling and a meticulous approach to detail, which greatly influences my work as a photographer.

Q: What is your background?

A: Growing up on a rural farm in West Virginia and having a cultural heritage rooted in Northern Europe and Germany have greatly influenced my artistic vision. The simplicity of rural life and the connection with animals have shaped my perspective, while my heritage has given me a sense of pride and a connection to a rich artistic tradition. 

These elements are reflected in my art, showcasing a deep appreciation for nature, a strong work ethic, and a connection to my roots.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I believe that as a photographer, my work is about more than just capturing beauty. It’s about telling compelling stories and creating visually stunning narratives. I emphasize meticulous planning and collaboration with my team to bring creative visions to life. Authenticity and individuality are at the heart of my photography, as I aim to capture the true essence of my subjects.

Attention to detail, mood, and emotion are essential elements in creating impactful images. Continuous learning and growth fuel my creativity, allowing me to stay innovative and relevant in the industry. Overall, my work philosophy revolves around storytelling, collaboration, authenticity, attention to detail, and continuous learning.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: As a photographer, I draw inspiration from a wide range of talented and visionary artists in the industry. These artists have not only influenced my work, but also pushed me to continually push the boundaries of my own creativity.

Here are a few examples of the photographers who inspire me: Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, Irving Penn, Peter Lindbergh, Steven Meisel, Time Walker, and Herb Ritts.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: I believe in staying true to my unique vision and style. Trusting my instincts and not being swayed by trends or external opinions has allowed me to develop an authentic voice. By staying true to myself, I create meaningful and impactful images that reflect my artistic vision.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: My life is a beautiful blend of art, nature, continuous learning, and cherished moments with loved ones. I find inspiration in art exhibitions, galleries, and museums, immersing myself in the creativity of other talented artists. Nature rejuvenates my spirit and fuels my creativity. I actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills, attending workshops and exploring new creative domains. 

Spending quality time with loved ones brings me joy and fulfillment. This harmonious combination enriches my life and inspires my artistic endeavors.

Q: What does exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2024 mean to you?

A: Artexpo New York is an exciting opportunity for me to share my curated collection of photographs with a wide audience. I’m eager to showcase my unique style and storytelling through imagery and connect with fellow artists and industry experts. Being selected for this exhibition validates my talent and hard work, and I look forward to receiving feedback and growing as a photographer. Artexpo New York 2024 is a milestone that will allow me to gain recognition and expand my network within the art and gallery industry. I’m grateful for this opportunity and excited about the possibilities it holds.

The post Meet the Artist – Artexpo New York Spotlight Recipient: Greg Lotus Gallery appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

A: I was born to be a Artist but actually didn’t realize it until I was in my late 20s. I was born in Bedford Stuyvesant Brooklyn, New York on Mother’s Day. My mother was a beautiful quiet woman and a great Seamstress. Her mother was also a great seamstress.

As a child, I was blessed with dreams that transported me to a realm of wonder and mystery. In these dreams, I encountered ethereal black sillhouette images of pure-hearted Ethopian people. Their beauty, kindness, and purity of soul left an incredible mark on my young heart. 

One fateful day, as they approached me, I felt an overwhelming surge of love emanating from their presence. It was then that I realized their purpose.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

LOVE and supporting one another. With most of the money we made we were able to fund and support many people, non-profit profit organizations that help others that are down and out, poor folk in the street and the bowery and all kinds of people in dire need of help. Our aim for this upcoming distinguished show is that whatever sales we make 50 percent will go to a school in Ethiopia for the needy.

I honestly and truly love making story textile needlework art and paintings because in my heart I have so many stories full of love, peace, pain, tragedy, hate, and also stories of hope, faith, and taking risk. I know there will be other stories I’ll have to share. I want to share them through my love and gift of textile needleworked Folk Art. 

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: The Artist whose work absolutely inspires me is the artist that I am collaborating with in this show. Teklemariam. 

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I ever received was from the gallery owner who represented me many years ago. He was smart and experienced. He treated me very well and was the person who advanced my art career. 

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: When I’m not working you can find me working on my little 23-acre farm in upstate New York in Palatine Bridge. It’s an Old Fashioned 17th-century colonial agricultural hamlet. 

Q: What does exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2024 mean to you?

A: To be given the privilege and honor to participate in this important art fair is more than I hoped for. Unfortunately, my husband fell ill and for the past 8 years, I wasn’t able to do any art shows or events since he was basically bedbound and could no longer walk. He died 8 months ago. I love and miss him terribly. He retired 22 years ago from the Port Authority of NY & NJ. He was a Senior Draftsman there for 33 years. Our Son Richard Allen Jr. was killed in Tower 1 when the airplanes struck into the top of the towers. My beloved husband escaped by the skin of his teeth. He had to walk all the way home once he made it out. He served in the Army for six years after graduating from high school. He was given a Military Funeral with honors and respectively buried proudly and Honorably in Evergreen Cementary 10 minutes from where we live. God Bless you.

The post Meet the Artist – Artexpo New York Spotlight Recipient: Denise Allen appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who are you and what is the vision of your gallery for artists?

A: I am Lucas Kokogian, founder and director of Galeria Azur. Our gallery’s vision is to serve as a platform for artists from diverse backgrounds to showcase their talents. We are committed to promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in the art industry, believing that art should be accessible to everyone. Galeria Azur strives to create a space where emerging and mid-career artists can gain exposure and recognition.

Q: What is your background?

A: As a collector myself, I earned my spot in the art scene in Argentina by representing the greatest living artists. I opened Galería Azur in Buenos Aires in 2009. My connection with art started early – my family home was surrounded by art and antiques – and continued by approaching the artistic world from an academic perspective by studying Art History Management. After several years as a leader in Buenos Aires and Bogotá, I obtained peer respect and discernment and launched a career in the art auction world. Having established my reputation in the auction room, Galería Azur grew into the global network of galleries it is today.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact the gallery?

A: My work philosophy revolves around promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in the art industry. This philosophy is deeply ingrained in Galeria Azur’s mission and operations. We strive to create a vibrant and diverse art community where artists from all backgrounds can thrive. My work ethic has been shaped by a combination of influences and experiences throughout my life. Inspired by my parents, I learned the values of hard work, dedication, and commitment. Over the years, I have had the privilege of learning from numerous mentors and colleagues in the art world, which has contributed to my strong and adaptable work ethic.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am inspired by artists who challenge boundaries and provoke thought through their work. Witnessing the transformative power of art motivates me to continue promoting emerging talents and fostering a more inclusive art community. Jon Gilchrist, one of the artists we represent inspires me every day. His personal odyssey transmutes into a visual symphony. His art—a mélange of abstract forms and bold colors—echoes the depth of his narrative. As a tall, young man navigating the complexities of identity as an African American individual in Houston, his canvases are replete with the emotional richness of his experiences. Works such as “Brave New World” and “Clearly Muddled Sky” transcend their titles, becoming emotional cartographies charting the terrain of his soul’s journey. He is constantly inviting the audience on a voyage of introspection.

I can sit here and name artists all day! Picasso inspires me as an artist for several reasons. Firstly, his unparalleled creativity and innovation in the realm of visual arts continue to astound and captivate me. Picasso’s ability to constantly push the boundaries of artistic expression, experimenting with various styles and techniques throughout his career, serves as a constant reminder of the limitless possibilities within the artistic process.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I’ve received is to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, to seek mentorship from those who have walked the path before me, and to continuously cultivate a clear vision for what I want to achieve.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: When I’m not working, you can find me exploring art galleries, attending cultural events, or spending time with my family and friends. (Also drinking a Dry Martini at The Beekman)

Q: What does exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2024 mean to you?

A: Exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2024 is an exciting opportunity to showcase Galeria Azur’s diverse roster of artists on a global platform. It allows us to connect with a broader audience and collaborate with talented artists from around the world. We are thrilled to participate in this prestigious event and share our passion for art with others.

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Throughout its nearly five historic decades in contemporary and fine art, Artexpo New York has hosted the likes of Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Keith Haring and Leroy Neiman; intensifying the discourse on today’s industry challenges and magnifying the very best the fine art world has to offer. This year, more than 15,000 avid art enthusiasts and industry leaders will return to enjoy the world’s original fine art fair.

THE LEGENDS

Acknowledging the amazing art history of Artexpo New York, Redwood Art Group wishes to commemorate five special exhibitors who have made Artexpo New York a not-to-be-missed event. Each Legend was selected by Artexpo’s curatorial team based on three factors:

• • For 10 years or more, the Legend has consistently exhibited at Artexpo New York with Redwood Art Group
  • Demonstrated unswerving representation of artist innovators, consistently bringing forward-thinking cutting-edge art to the fair
  • Articulate and distinctive presentation of each artist’s work, exceeding all display guidelines

 

Come to Artexpo New York April 4-7, 2024, at Manhattan’s newest destination for art, Pier 36. Check out the 2024 Artexpo New York Legends. Don’t miss their exceptional exhibits and artists!

Artavita / World Wide Art – Booth 107

World Wide Art began in 2006 with a simple approach of printing an art book presenting the work of noteworthy artists from all over the world. Noteworthy meaning original, with an element of inspiration, vision, originality; plus mastery in the artist’s given medium. Artavita is the online forum for these same artists to be seen and collected. With art that is continually new and fresh from both emerging and established artists, the Artavita World Wide Art curated exhibitions are a must-see at international art fairs.

https://www.artavita.com/

Artifact – Booth 401

For over 20 years, Artifact has been exhibiting and promoting the work of mid-career and established artists, including paintings, sculptures, photographs and new media. Through art based marketing strategies that engage artists and their work, they provide the guidance and planning to launch, grow and develop artists’ careers. Artifact is located in the Lower East Side, the most exciting art destination of Manhattan close to the Tenement Museum, New Museum, International Center of Photography and over 200 contemporary art galleries.

https://www.artifactnyc.net/

INNOART – Booth 434

Innoart and Beijing Global Art International bring innovative ideas and boundary pushing concepts and artists together, creating some of today’s most interactive opportunities for experiencing an artist’s vision and creativity. Innoart showcases  art that comes from a versatile and multi-cultural heritage inspiring Artexpo New York collectors.

Mecenavie Gallery – Booth 305

Since 2004, Paris’ Mecenavie Gallery has been serving talented contemporary artists, providing them with high quality services, including exhibitions in French and international art fairs, auction sales and corporate rentals. By striving to give artists opportunity at multiple levels, Mecenavie also gives art lovers and collectors the ability to enjoy, learn about, and collect art at fairs, online, and directly from the artist.

https://www.mecenavie.com/en/

Sammoun Fine Arts – Booth 215

Samir Sammoun celebrates his 29th year exhibiting at Artexpo — it’s where he launched his signature impressionistic style in 1996 and where his collectors and galleries still come to buy his latest masterpieces. A great colorist by nature, Sammoun possesses a rich palette that features more than 30 shades and tones, providing the necessary foundation for his soft point and long-handled brushwork. A landscape artist, Samir Sammoun has a vast repertoire of pictorial themes: willows, apple trees in bloom, wheat fields, olive trees, villages, storms, cityscapes and seascapes. His paintings reflect a tranquil happy mood.

https://sammoun.com/

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