3 Art Openings & an Afterparty (plus art-going tips!)

by Ryan A. Bunch

Toledo's art scene is bangin' right now, and this Friday, September 3 is proof. Regardless of what you're into, there's a little something in the three art openings this weekend to entice, and/or even terrify just about everybody. When you're done gallivanting with Toledo's coolies and artists, and you're eyes have had enough to eat, I recommend you head over to Wesley's (1201 Adams St.) for Old School Fridays, and give your mind a little something to drink and let your ears and your hips get a little of the creative action.The long-running DJ night sets up on the patio playing al lthe best old school funk, soul, and hip-hop.

Nervous about going to an art opening? Don't be. Here are some tips:

* 'Getting' it: You don't have to 'get it,' often, there's not much to get.

* Is it good?: Aesthetics are the most arbitrary thing in the world. Some people will argue this, ignore them. If you like it, it's good. If you don't, it's not bad, it's just not for you.

* This SUCKS!: If you don't like it, be polite. Avoid things like,"I could do that!" "They think that's worth HOW MUCH?!," and "That's crap." Someone, despite what it looks like, put time and metal energy into this. Constructive criticism is one thing, but a gallery opening isn't the place for that. And, there's a good chance the artist is standing right behind you. Artists are sensitive, god knows what hearing you harp about their ability could do. You know who wanted to be artists but sucked? Hitler, and Charles Manson.

* Say Hi: Generally, there are wise, creative, interesting and involved people at art openings, even if it's quiet and awkward, don't be shy and flee - strike up a conversation!

* Drink: I'll share with you a bit of information I received that changed my life as a younger man. My friends Russell told me, "Dude, people think going to art shows is stuffy and lame. I think they're fun. Have you been to a gallery? People get fucking wasted at art openings!" It's true, most galleries offer complimentary wine, and - if your lucky a nice cheese tray.

* Buy: If you can afford it - buy art. But, don't feel pressured. However, buying art is good for you, for your soul, for your walls, and wonderful for empowering the local scene further. Plus, it just feels good to support someone trying to make it off of creativity.


Ho hum. Here are the shows:

1.) No Filter Gallery Exhibit
7 pm - 10 pm
Collingwood Arts Center
2413 Collingwood Blvd.
www.collingwoodartscenter.org

The CAC is one of the most beautiful and impressive historic buildings in town ... which is so ironically wonderful because Toledo's original "naughty photographer," Boyd Hambleton, is going to muck the place up with his filthy fetish photography. Never one to be known for censorship, Boyd heralds this display as his "most provocative fetish and editorial nude photography to date." Oh boy.

The exhibition will take place in the Gerber Parlors, closer to Collingwood, safe, light street parking is available. A seminar entitled "The Fire Sermon: Erotic Photography in Toledo" will precede the opening at 6 pm.

 

2.) Blue & Green Show
5 pm - 11 pm
J&J Gallery, 909 Jefferson
www.jandjgallery.net

The J&J Gallery is among the newest in town, having just recently opened in June. It's a very nice space, located right on Jefferson Ave. Unfortunately, there's construction there right now, so park in the lot at the corner of 10th and Jefferson, or at the one at Michigan and Jefferson. Say hello to Jorge Gallardo (painter) and Joe Schreiber (photographer), they are the owners and very nice guys.

The theme of this show is pretty simple: There was an open call to artists of all sorts to create something using the colors blue and green. What happened? Well, you'll have to see at the opening. Given there was a cash prize involved, probably pretty interesting.

 

3.) The Gathering at Bozarts
6 pm - 10 pm
Bozarts Fine Art & Music Gallery
151 S. St. Clair St. (Behind the Farmer's Market)
Bozarts on Facebook

Bozarts is one of the most popular new galleries in town, it lives and breathes in a former concrete warehouse on the banks of Swan Creek. The was founded and is currently run by local art guru Jerry Gray.

This is the opening reception for Yusuf Lateef's solo show. Lateef is a long-time scene vet, but this is a unique exhibition. After a long hiatus, Lateef has been working out of the Bozarts gallery, using at a studio for the past handful of months. Most of the works you see here were created here for this event. Pretty sweet. Bozarts' opening run a little later than usual, so I'd recommend hittin' this one a little later.

Via Bozarts:
Lateef's work is a refreshing and uplifting meld of abstraction, figurative and urban styles. His time spent at CCAD in Columbus, under bridges and in many of Toledo non-profits producing murals is evident in much of his work. Yusuf has one of the most pleasant and positive palettes in the city, which conjures compelling ideals and contemplations of space, method and reasoning with a colorfully comfortable voice.

Performances by hip-hop acts, The Great Lakes Crew, and DJs Sid Delux and Liquid Accent.


Published: 09/01/2010 7:00 am

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