23 posts categorized "Charity Event"

November 08, 2010

2 NYC Women in Art Events not to Miss.. from the Rema Hort Mann Foundation!

So save the dates.. Nov 16th (Lecture / Panel Discussion about Women Artists )and Nov 18th (Charity Auction), with both nights starting at 6:30pm.

These two great "Women in Art" events take place at the wonderful almost too nice to be art dealers P.P.O.W. Gallery. And the Rema Hort Mann Foundation... on of MAO's Favorite..  is possibly one of the best charities to support if you're interested in the Emerging Arts and helping out individuals suffering from Cancer.

MAO will be there. To get more information.. or to buy your tickets/make donations in advance...[email protected].

HortFoundation_GirlsWanttohavefun

 

October 07, 2010

George Eastman House.. Auction... Ends.. Today and Tomorrow!

George Eastman House 2010 Benefit Auction (Story contributed by Alvina Lopez, yes.. MAO now accepts story submissions!)

 

The George Eastman House, home of the International Museum of Photography and Film, is currently holding its 2010 Benefit Auction, the first since 1977. The Auction is scheduled to run from Sept. 27 though Oct. 7, which live viewings at Sotheby's New York from Oct. 1 through Oct. 4. While the viewings may have past, interested collectors, individuals, dealers, and other parties can still participate in the online auction, held at iGavelAuctions.com. The auction is open to any interested party and because there is no reserve on the items, individuals can place bids from several hundred to several thousands of dollars.

Danny_Lyons_Eastman_Auction

Here is the auction link.. you can bid online now

http://bid.igavelauctions.com/ClientInfo.taf?_function=info&skip=1&id=3442

 

Proceeds from the auction will be used to help the Eastman House maintain its four million piece collection, which includes photography and camera equipment, photographs, motion pictures, and other related literature. The funds will also help the House continue research and educational programs, as well as maintain the National Historic Landmark house and surrounding gardens.

 

(Photo by Lyon, Danny,Portrait of Nancy,1990, currently bid at $1,200.00 ...join the bid here... )

 

The idea for the benefit was born nearly two years ago and auction committee has taken great pains to amass a collection worthy of the George Eastman name. A call for donated auction items was placed to museum members, collectors, dealers, photographers, film makers, and community members. The donations began pouring in from over 20 countries, including Germany, Israel, Australia, Japan, Canada, South Africa, Mexico, and the Netherland, as well as from across the United States. In total, the Eastman House collected over 300 photographs from almost every photographic genre and movement, rare books, and cameras for the 2010 Benefit Auction.

 

The George Eastman House is the oldest photography museum and one of the oldest film archives in the world. The home was built by George Eastman, founder of the Eastman Kodak Company, in 1905 and open to the public in 1949. Today, the museum is a leader in film preservation and photograph conservation and is a registered National Historic Landmark.

 

For more information on this event or the museum, visit the George Eastman House website at www.eastmanhouse.org, or the online auction website, www.iGavelAuction.com.

 

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Alvina Lopez, who writes on the topics of accredited online colleges .  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: alvina.lopez @gmail.com. 

September 27, 2010

Photography Portfolio Review x3 ...and an Opportunity to get your Photographs in a Gallery Show.

If you're an aspiring art photographer, and looking for honest feedback from experienced eyes,  there are several emerging photography portfolio reviews going on this fall art season in NYC.

These review session can be a great and efficient way to get some honest,and very valuable feedback to take your art career to the next level.

Galilei_the_inquisistion FYI.. Some portfolio reviews are  perhaps borderline extortion, a total rip off,very expensive more affordable and useful than others.... so you need to choose wisely.  (photo: This painting from the 19th century depicts Italian scientist Galileo at the Vatican in Rome in the 17th century inquisition)

But there's one (actually 3 reviews) for only $150 which actually gives you the chance to get your work immediately into a NYC and LA gallery show.

Here's the press release.... for the Hous Projects Gallery.. Portfolio Review... Space is almost filled up.. so you need to call now if you're interested.

Time
Saturday, October 9 · 10:00am - 6:00pm
and
Saturday, October 16  10:00am - 6:00pm

Location hous projects Gallery Address: 31 Howard Street , Second Floor,SoHo, New York NY 10013 212-965-1238

Created By
Elizabeth Houston, Ruben Natal-San Miguel, and Mike Mao

More Info
Fall Portfolio Review- Manhattan, New York City

...Location:
hous projects Gallery Address: 31 Howard Street , Second Floor,SoHo, New York NY and the number is 212-965-1238

Phone number is 212-965-1238 or 212 -965-1251
Please call to schedule an appointment
 
We cordially invite you to be a part of a new Fall Portfolio Review in NYC at the SOHO branch of the hous projects gallery.  This is an opportunity to have your portfolio reviewed by 3 prominent figures in the Manhattan Photo Art World.

This is an exploratory portfolio review focused mostly on FINE ART Photography but, we will also consider FINE ART painting, video and sculpture. The main objective is to find new talent on the East Coast for an upcoming bi coastal portraiture show opening simultaneously in hous projects NYC and Los Angeles galleries during January 2011.
The show will be titled "EAST MEETS WEST".

The administrative fee for the portfolio review is only $150.00 and it will guarantee time with each of our three experts : Michael, Elizabeth and Ruben. They will consider work to be inclued in the portraiture show at hous projects gallery if applicable. This is a great opportunity to have your work reviewed by three experienced NYC contemporary art enthusiasts coming from three completely different points of view.. The Collector, the Curator, and the Art Dealer.

1. Micheal MAO- Art Collector, Curator, Member of the Guggenheim Photo-Acquisition Committee, Editor in Chief of this award winning Modern Art Obsession Blog and Co-Chair of the Aperture Foundation 2010 Fall Photo Auction.


2. Ruben Natal-San Miguel-Curator /Art Collector /Photographer/ Photolucida Critical Mass judge and pre screener/ARTmostfierce Art Blog Editor in Chief

3 Elizabeth Houston- hous projects gallery owner/Gallerist/ Art Collector/ Photolucida's Critical Mass Judge.


 

May 13, 2010

Ryan Humphrey's New Show, with a work in the coming DPA Charity Auction!

Artist Ryan Humphrey's New Show at DCKT Conemporary Gallery is his best work to date, and he's even got one of his works coming up at Monday's DPA Re:FORM Charity Auction!

So, you might remember Ryan.. as the precocious Bad Boy Contemporary Artist who was featured on the first tragic season of America's Top Design Reality TV Show.

If you have a chance, be sure to stop into see Ryan Humphrey's newest show "Early American" at the DCKT Contemporary Gallery on the Lower East Side. It's an amazing installation of high art meets new american hip-hop design with a bit of Witty car culture thrown into the mix. Each piece in the show will leave you with a smirk on your face, and you might even get a giggle out of it.  but over all MAO left the gallery thinking, Ryan has found his true artistic voice, and he probably has produced his best work to date for this show.

Here's a short part from the official gallery Press Release..

Early American, RYAN HUMPHREY’s third solo exhibition with the gallery. HUMPHREY explores duality through an altered, customized version of an 18th century American interior. The installation hijacks the format of a formal and affluent interior, infusing it with cast-offs and objects more likely found in a rural garage than an antique shop. Class and taste are called into question and the hierarchy of materials associated with social stratification is discarded.

We particularly loved Ryan's painting, "UnderTow, 2010."  (photo #1) Which we were told was made from 100% old NY City 1970's Black and White Junked Police Cars. It's just a wonderful appropriation of the Ryan_Humphrey_UnderTow_2010 famous Hokusai, "The Great Wave of Kanagawa", of the 1820's.

So, if like MAO, you're a Ryan Humphrey Fan, then you have a great chance to get one of his cool works for a songat this Monday night's Drug Policy Alliance's Re:FORM Charity Auction at Sikkema Jenkins & Co. Gallery.

Ryan has donated this mutli-image 2 panel work.. tying in his Evil Knievel Bad Boy Biker, with a whole lot of Art History. it just resulted in a  wonderful and Witty work.

Ryan_Humphrey_DPA_Donation

(Photo #2, Ryan Humphrey |Hearts of Darkness 2, 2009|Mixed media on fabric, linen, and canvas |2 panels, each 20 1/4 x 15 inches|Courtesy of the artist and DCKT Contemporary, Inc., New York| Estimated retail value: $3,500 )

Even if you're not a in the know, hip Ryan Humphrey Fan.. at the DPA event

there are also some great donations from a number of super star artist to consider.. Kara Walker, Donald Beachler, Fred Tomaseli, John Waters, William Wegman, and Ross Bleckner. So, there's still time for you to place absentee bids here...

See you all at Sikkema Jenkins on Monday Night!

 

April 08, 2010

Artist Spencer Finch to Speak (Parsons Lecture Series) at The Aperture Foundation

Artist Spencer Finch to Speak at The Aperture Foundation (in cooperation with Parsons New School for Design) at 6:30pm on April 20th.

Some of the best things in Life are Free.. and as far as the art world goes.. this is one of those events.

Spencer_Finch_2009_Venice_biennale2 We've been a long time fan of Spencer Finch and his super Witty sensory perception art creations.

(Photo #1, Images taken of the 2009 Venice Biennale room featuring 2 Spencer Finch artworks, Moonlight (Glass Window) and Moondust (light Sculpture))

If you've been on the New High Line Park in NYC.. you've no doubt marveled at Spencer Finch's Creative Time sponsored "The River That Runs Both Ways" (aka.. The English translation for the Native Indian name "Hudson") work, which looks like a huge stained glass wIndow installation at 15th Street and 9th Ave. In MAO's not sohumble opinnion, it is possibly one of the most perfect public art works we've seen in years!

So here's you chance to meet and listen to the brilliant mind who created this amazing public artwork...  

Here's the note from the official press release..

Aperture and the Photography Program in the School of Art, Media, and Technology at Parsons The New School for Design present a talk with Brooklyn-based artist Spencer Finch. In his renderings of light and color, Finch unites scientific method with a poetic sensibility as he explores the mechanics and mysteries of perception. Working with a variety of media, the artist examines how people experience, remember, and represent an array of visual and sensory phenomena through a studied investigation of his own observations of subjects ranging from the color palette of his dreams to a Monument Valley sunset. Finch is interested in the physical, cultural, and psychological factors that shape perception, examining the effect of light on an object's color, the boundaries of the human field of vision, and the influence of language, memory, and the subconscious.

Spencer Finchwas born in 1962 and lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. He studied at the Rhode Island School of Design, Hamilton College, and Doshisha University in Kyoto, and has exhibited internationally. Finch had a major solo exhibition, What Time is it on the Sun?, at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art in 2007, which was accompanied by a monograph with essays by Susan Cross and Daniel Birnbaum. His recent solo exhibition, As if the Sea Should Part and Show a Further Sea, was exhibited at the Queensland Art Gallery in Brisbane, Australia, in 2009. Finch was also included in the Making Worldsexhibition at the 2009 Venice Biennale, and has a solo exhibition forthcoming at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in September 2010. His work is held in important museum collections, including those of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, D.C.; High Museum of Art, Atlanta; Museum für Moderne Kunst, Frankfurt; and Guggenheim Museum, New York

So the lecture starts at 6:30pm.. I'd suggest you get there early.. cause everyone MAO knows will be there...to oooh.. and ahhh.. over Spencer Finch and his amazing art!

Artist Talk with Spencer Finch
Parsons Lecture Series


Tuesday, April 20, 2010
6:30 pm


FREE

Aperture Gallery & Bookstore
547 West 27 Street, 4th floor
New York, New York

March 15, 2010

Spring Benefit Season is Here.. Save The Date! re:FORM Auction on May 17th

So the 2010 Spring Benefit Season is Here.. !!

So.. Be sure to save the date, for the big re:FORM Art Auction on May 17th.

This event only happens once every 2 years.. and features work donated by some of the best contemporary artists working today. Plus, the Charity is a MAO favorite, The Drug Policy Alliance(The DPA), an organization which fosters Drug Education.. not Incarceration. Reason, Compassion, Justice.

DPA Network is the nation's leading organization working to end the war on drugs. We envision new drug policies based on science, compassion, health and human rights and a just society in which the fears, prejudices and punitive prohibitions of today are no more.

This time the event and art auction will be hosted by contemporary art powerhouse gallery.. Sikkema Jenkins & Co. (So you know there will be some major attitude high quality art to be had!)

Dpa_reform_logo_red
Monday, May 17th
Art Auction and
Cocktail Reception
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sikkema Jenkins & Co
530 West 22nd Street
New York, NY 10011
Event Details

When
Monday, May 17, 2010 @ 6:00PM - 9:00PM  

:Buy your ticket!

:Absentee Bid

They have not yet posted art works which will be up for auction.. but Donald Baechler and Fred Tomaselli have agreed to be artist co-chairs for the event. So you can expect some amazing bargains art work. Get your tickets early, cause this event will sell out.. !

As they post donated art works, MAO will feature some of the undiscovered gems. So Stay tuned!

February 25, 2010

Welcome BACK!! Aperture SNAP Out of Winter Party !!

OK.. We've been away from blogging for way too long!
MAO is looking forward to getting back into the schwing of this blog again.
There's just Sooo much to bitch about say...

But we'll start with pointing out some amazing events that we'll be attending the next few weeks...

First... if the long cold winter has got you down.. it's time to SNAP out of Winter.. with Aperture!
Yes.. my little MAO-ettes.. Aperture is having a hot new party focused on young photo collectors. (yes.. that includes MAO too!! We're not dead yet!)

PARTY!! Live Jazz Music.. Friday, March 19th, 9pm until Midnight!! 
SNAP!+OUT+OF+WINTER+evite
So the tickets are only $250..

WOW.. what a deal!

 For a $250 donation.. y

ou get 2 party tickets (think open BAR..and hanging out with MAO!!)..

PLUS a cool limited edition signed photo by


DAN WINTERS
Movie Theater, Midland, Texas, March 25, 1995

Exclusively produced for Aperture’s SNAP! Out of Winter party
Archival pigment ink print on Crane Museo
Image size: 7 1/2" x 9 1/2" in.
Paper size: 8 x 10 in.
Edition: 100 and 10 artist’s proofs
Printed, signed, and numbered by the artist
Presented in a foil stamped folio

DAN WINTERS (born in Ventura, California, 1962) lives in Austin and Los Angeles. He is the recipient of more than one hundred awards, including the Alfred Eisenstadt Award for Magazine Photography and a World Press Photo Award. His work is included in the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, University of Austin, Texas.


AND.... if that wasn't enough for $250 you also get a 1 year subscription to the great...

Aperture Magazine!

OK.. MAO readers.. buy your tickets here..soon..cause this event will sell out!

October 29, 2009

Diane Arbus Photo Up for Auction at the Aperture Benefit!!

Diane Arbus Photo Up for Auction at the Aperture Benefit!!

Check it out here...

Diane_Arbus_John_Gruen_Jane_Wilson Yes.. so far this rare Diane Arbus photo has a current bid of only $1,750. Welcome to the Art Recession...That's too low to be believed!!

So..one of the most important photographers in history has a photo for sale at Monday's Aperture Benefit auction. Can you ask for a better opportunity to add something amazing to your art collection?

This is one of her very standard 14.25 in x 14.25 in, Gelatin Silver Prints made by photographer Neil Selkirk for the Arbus Estate.

We've seen similar prints sell at Sothebys and Christies auction for well over $15k.

It's was donated by the Fraenkel Gallery in San Fran who represents the estate.

Diane Arbus, Photo of : John Gruen and Jane Wilson, NYC, 1965, Printed later, FRAMED, signed, titled, dated, and editioned '4/75' by the photographer's daughter, Doon Arbus, in ink, and stamped on the reverse, framed, 1963, printed later by Neil Selkirk (MoMA, unpaginated; Revelations)

Estimated value : $5,500

So. even if you're not a Diane Arbus fan.. this is just one of the works of art that will be auctioned off at the Benefit Monday night.

You can still get your Aperture Ticket Here!

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2009

The Lighthouse, Chelsea Piers, 6:30–10:00 pm

Cocktails and Silent Auction
Dinner, Award Ceremony, and Live Auction

For more information, contact:
Michiko Simanjuntak Grasso
(212) 946-7149 or [email protected]

October 27, 2009

The Aperture Foundation Benefit and Art Auction is Coming!

The Aperture Foundation Benefit and Auction is Coming!

YES my little MAO-ettes.. one of the best art charities around is having their annual fund raising party.

As every devoted MAO reader knows.. we can't do enough to support this charity.

Tickets are still available..for both the Auction, and the Dinner.

Here are the details...
Aperture Foundation Benefit & Auction - Honoring Joel Meyerowitz,
Howard Greenberg, and Susana Torruella Leval

Auction Featuring works by Diane Arbus,
Bruce Davidson, Atta Kim, Malick Sidibé, and more

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2009
The Lighthouse, Chelsea Piers

6:30-8:00 pm
Cocktail and Silent Auction

8:00-10:00 pm
Dinner, Award Ceremony,
and Live Auction.. Buy your tickets online here..

Or To order tickets, please contact Michiko Simanjuntak Grasso at [email protected] or (212) 946-7149.

---------------------------------------------

They also have some amazing art donations by some famous artists up for sale at the silent and the live auctions.

Many of these will sell for much less than a gallery would charge.  It's exactly these types of Art Charity auctions which are the perfect place to find some inexpensive gems for your cutting edge art collection.

This week we're going to point out a few items we're excited about in the auction.

Our first exciting auction pick is by super star artist.. Ruud van Empel.

Live Auction #15.

Ruud_vanempel_2_Boys 2 Boys #1, 2009

Cibachrome print, edition of 25

16 1/2 x 14 in., framed

Estimated Value: $ 5,500.. Starting bid just $1,650.00

Courtesy of the artist and Stux Gallery, New York

This photos is a hyper real creation constructed in almost a pure digital space. Ruud is probably regarded as one of the early pioneers of the digital age of Art Photography and Photoshop.

Ron Exley wrote in the book PhotoArt (Dumont 2008):
'Dutch artist Ruud van Empel has taken digital manipulation of photography to a new level'
In 2011 the Groninger Museum will present a retrospective of his work.

Anyway.. We think this a cool magical image in so many ways.  Plus Ruud is one of those super hot hot artists who's work MAO has always liked.. but was never been willing to pay the full price or to get into a crazy bidding war at an auction house.

Honestly.. MAO thinks in Miami last year, we saw an extortionist art dealer asking $100,000+ for one of Ruud's older sold out large prints.  So getting to buy this amazing image for your art collection at the Aperture Charity event for next to nothing.. is just a super win win!  

September 29, 2009

It's Art Benefit Season, So Check Out.. The Photography Center at Woodstock!

The Center for Photography At Woodstock has their 2009 Benefit Gala Honoring W.M. Hunt on Sunday October 11, 2009 in Woodstock. Yes.. MAO knows its too crazy far, hours a bit far away for just a benefit... BUT!!

This has been one of the best places for emerging photography in the UISA, and every year they hold one of the most interesting "think opportunity to buy something very cheap" art photo auctions.

It's a wonderful organization.. and they could use your help in these difficult times! So Please Check it out, you might find something great for your photo collection.

CPW_31st_annual

CatalogCover

It's quite amazing..  they have photos donated by 80 artists..

Click here to preview and bidon the great auction items.. not all of them are online yet.. but the list is most impressive.

This year's event will honor our 2009 Vision Award HonoreeW.M. Hunt, collector, curator, educator, gallery owner, writer, and emerging artist advocate  and features CPW's 31st annual benefit auction of contemporary and classic photographs beginning at 4pm.

Benefit Gala proceeds directly support the creative programs of the Center for Photography at Woodstock, a not-for-profit arts and educational organization. Please support the arts.

There are Two Tiers of Admission for CPW's 2009 Benefit Gala. To order Tickets or a Catalog, please call CPW at (845-679-9957).

(A) GALA tickets are $100 per person. 
They include attendance the 2009 Vision Awards Wine and Food Reception in honor of our recipient W.M. Hunt, which will begins at 2pm, a complimentary copy of the 2009 Benefit Auction Catalog. Attendees receive preferred seating for the live benefit auction.

GALA Tickets must be purchased in advance, by Thursday October 8, 2009.

(B) To attend the AUCTION only, admission is by purchase of the catalog for $35 ($25 for CPW members) plus postage. 

Doors open at 4pm for Auction attendees. Catalogs may be purchased by phone, and fax orders. Payment may also be sent via mail. Catalogs are currently in production and will be available after September 21.

Benefit Auction
Catalogs may be purchased via phone, fax, email order, in CPW's gallery, and on the day of the sale at the Bearsville Theater.

To order Tickets or a Catalog, please call CPW at (845-679-9957).

July 19, 2009

There's a New On-line Art Project to Watch - "Summer Sexy"

There's a New On-line Art Project to Watch - "Summer Sexy"

OK.. My little MAO-ettes... Do we have a website for you!!!

From the gallery master minds on the far West 27th Street the edge of the known Contemporary Art Universe, comes this new hot and helpful on-line summer art project. FYI.. that would be : a production of Winkleman Gallery and Schroeder Romero.

Since most of the privileged, pampered, tony, lazy,  in the know, collecting art world is at the beach already, these gallerists have put together a cool way for collectors to see what's hot and happening in the galleries.  So, each and every week they have asked the most self important collectors and curators to choose an interesting "Summer Sexy" work of art currently for sale at in a summer gallery show to feature.

These art works are then posted for sale to readers on the www.summer-sexy.blogspot.com website each week.

Adam_Raphael_poker_from_bearly_workingWith any sale commissions going to the collector or curators favorite charity. What could be better than that??  So let your mouse do the walking...

Check out... Summer Sexy!

They's already had some great posts, but's here's just one of the best most sexy choices so far....


  Brilliant New York-based collector Michael Hoeh has selected Adam Raphael's 'smokin' photograph "Poker" from Barely Working, currently on exhibition at Bonni Benrubi Gallery(New York).

Adam Raphael
"Poker" from Barely Working
Digital ink-jet print
16" x 24"
Edition of 12
US$1,250.00
Image courtesy of Bonni Benrubi Gallery, New York.

Proceeds from the sale of this work will benefit Michael and Bonni's selected charity : The Somaly Mam Foundation, focused on putting an end to world wide Human Trafficking and Childhood Slavery, their mission is "to give victims and survivors a voice in their lives, liberate victims, end slavery, and empower survivors as they create and sustain lives of dignity."

June 12, 2009

Save the Date: June 24th.. for The Rema Hort Mann Foundation 10% Charity Event

Save the Date: June 24th.. for The Rema Hort Mann Foundation 10% Charity Event.

It's a new great event during Gay Pride Week NYC.. focused on Gay Artists!

Here's the event website : http://www.rhmfoundation.org/10percent/index.html

There's A Silent Art Auction Featuring Over
Robert_Melee_Disco_Tray70 Works Donated by LGBTQ Artists
A fundraiser during gay pride week—
open to everyone! And no, the auction is not a bunch of bull dyke and giant penis pictures.

Wednesday, June 24th from 6 to 9pm

at 28 Wooster Street, the former home of  art recession road kill Guild and Greyshkul Gallery.

Tickets $20 at the door.
Plus they have an amazing art auction featuring some of the most important LGBTQ artists in the world. Where 100% of all the proceeds from the sale of artwork go to support cancer patients, and visual artist and the creation of a new fund to sponsor event, presentations, and lectures by artists from the gay community. Can you have a more worthy cause?

(Photo #1 for auction.. by : Robert Melee Disco Tray(2009), Medium: Enamel on metal, Dimensions: 23" x 14", Minimum bid: $1,200, Estimated retail value: $2,400, Courtesy of the artist and Andrew Kreps Gallery)

So MAO got the chance to ask some nosy questions to the event organizer.. Quang Bao, director of The Rema Hort Mann Foundation.

Here's a bit of the MAO interview. See you on June 24th.. and HAPPY PRIDE! Plus there's more info here.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. So what is the  the individual artist grant program at the RHM Foundation ? Have they had gay artists in the program?
 
A: Through an external nominating committee, the Foundation annually receives approximately 130 suggestions of eligible emerging artists. They represent everything from painters to performance artists to video artists. We're at eight grants at $10,000 now and the money is unrestricted. The committee is looking for the artist who hasn't had much exposure but is someone who has tremendous potential. I just checked the list of 94 grantees and over our 14 years of doing this, we have awarded grants to gay and lesbian artists every single year. 2003 was particularly pink.
 
2 What's RHM Foundation's ties to the Gay Community or to the Artist?
A: The visual art world, perhaps the art world in general, has so many gay artists, dealers, professionals and curators working in it. The Foundation board and volunteers reflect that. We'd be incomplete if we didn't somehow understand that while doing our work. Our grant program doesn't 'gay profile' anybody. Sometimes, you can look at an artist's work and make a conclusion about his or her sexuality--other times not at all. I suspect if we took the labels off 10%, people would never come to the conclusion that all of the works were created by gay artists. The Foundation keeps a modest budget and we tend to work on a very intimate level with artists who receive grants. We try to invite them to events, see their exhibitions--gay or straight and everything in between.
 
3. Why have just a Gay Artist focused charity event? Great Gay Artist.. isn't that term redundant?
A: Why not. A community can be brought together to show its strength and celebrate its characteristics. And quite frankly, you only have to love the art to buy it. People told us that fundraisers in summer time can't work because the art world is away. In this economy, a nonprofit can't take off an entire season. So, we're going for it (and hoping it pays out).

4. So you're establishing a year-long fund for art projects that supports the larger community of gay artists? What type of projects are you considering? Have there been any so far? How many projects per year? What's the goal for the fund?

A: The fund will be established based on the proceeds after 10% so nothing's set yet. We plan to put together a simple RFP that will allow for the artists to propose ideas for an event, public presentation or even artist workshop that will put artists in touch with one another and a larger public. We'll form an external committee to help decide who gets the grants and how much. You have to put back whatever you draw from a particular community, and this is our way of acknowledging the true spirit and energy of 10%.

5.What are the highlights in terms of the artworks available and the party?

A: We've got over 70 pieces--beautiful photographs priced at $250 from recent MFA graduates all the way up to Andy Warhols. We're also intending to make this a real party. I'm not a hip downtown club goer but I understand that our 2 DJs are the hottest, the host is someone people fly in to see and there's free drinking all night long. Anyone who comes will want to stay--there just won't be a better art benefit to go to during gay pride week.

April 17, 2009

The Aperture Foundation Summer Party.. Tickets (with a Print) on Sale Now!

The Aperture Foundation Summer Party.. Tickets on Sale Now!

So my little MAO-ettes... Here's a great opportunity for you!

The Aperture Foundation has commissioned photographer Thomas Allen to do a special photo just for their big summer benefit party.  So they are selling a limited number of tickets (only 250) for their party that come with a free print for too cheaponly $150.  So even if you can't make it to the party on Thursday June 18th from 8pm to 11pm it's still worth getting a ticket for the print!

You can buy your tickets Here : Aperture : Some Like It Hot Party Now!

You can view works by Artist Thomas Allen here.

The party will feature a performance by the band The Willowz, who did the music for the cool movies, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and The Science of Sleep.

They will also have a big raffle, with lots of cool prizes, but the Grand Prize winner will receive a very valuable 30" x 40" print from a private commissioned portrait session taken by a MAO favorite photographer, Matthew Pillsbury! Amazing! Plus the Raffle tickets are only $10...Sweet!

Aperture_Some_Like_It_Hot_Party

October 27, 2008

ARTWALK NY - An event not to miss!! November 3rd.

ARTWALK NY - Monday, November 3rd at 6:30pm, the Metropolitan Pavilion(125 West 18th street)

NY_ArtWalk With the US economy crashing.. it's often the case that both Art Dealers, and Art Auction Houses take a very long time to adjust prices to reality (aka...these "new economy" levels)

So, believe it or not,

Charity auctions are one of the first organizations to realize the current reality with much lower contemporary art prices.

Hence the OPPORTUNITY for collectors!!

One of MAO's favorite charities is The Coalition for the Homeless.

Since there's a good chance many of MAO's Wall Street buddies are unemployed, broke and probably soon to be homeless.. it's one cause that's very close to home.

 Also.. our wonderful friends at The Coalition for the Homeless, are offering a MAO Collector discount on tickets...

 A limited number of discounted (50% off) tickets are available for MAO's friends, at the price of 2 for $200 (regularly $200 each)

To purchase tickets, please call 212-776-2056, or visit ww.coalitionforthehomeless.org and enter the discount code COLLECTOR

Tickets available on a first-come basis.  All proceeds help the Coalition for the Homeless provide a safety net for the thousands of New Yorkers in need.

Here's the press release..

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ARTWALK NY - Monday, November 3rd
 
Now in its fourteenth year, ARTWALK NY, a benefit for the Coalition for the Homeless, is one of New York City's largest and most anticipated charity art auctions. On Monday, November 3rd, the Coalition will join returning Co-chairs Richard Gere and Carey Lowell, and Honored Guests Alec Baldwin, Chuck Close, Darryl Pottorf and Christopher Rauschenberg, to honor and remember iconic American artists Robert Rauschenberg's unparalleled contribution to the world of contemporary art.
 
Featuring an art auction and cocktail party at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Chelseathis year’s live auction includes works by Chuck Close, Ed Ruscha, Jenny HolzerJeff Koons, Dennis Oppenheim, Jack Pierson, Pat Steir, Robert Rauschenberg, and Wade Guyton.  The silent auction features artists like assume vivid astro focus, Donald Baechler, James Nares, Terence KohYoko Ono and William Wegman.
 

Tonight 34,000 homeless New Yorkers, including 14,000 children, will sleep in emergency shelters.  The Coalition for the Homeless is the nation's oldest advocacy and direct service organization helping homeless men, women and children.  They are dedicated to the principle that affordable housing, sufficient food and the chance to work for a living wage are fundamental rights in a civilized society.  Since their inception in 1981, the Coalition has fought successfully for lasting solutions to homelessness through their renowned advocacy.


September 02, 2008

David Humphrey and Sam Reveles work coming up at the DPA re:FORM Art Auction

David Humphrey and Sam Reveles work coming up at the DPA re:FORM Art Charity Auction.

The big charity auction is tomorrow, Wednesday, September 3rd at Cheim and Read Gallery from 6 to 9pm.  Buy your tickets here.

There's still time to get your tickets, and place absentee bids for the great works they have up for sale.

Check out the 55 amazing items up for auction.. including significant work by artist Andres Serrano, Josh Azzarella, Kara Walker, Fred Tomaselli,  Donald Baechler, Louise Lawler, and Julie Mehretu that MAO didn't get a chance to blog about!

But, two additional works we want to bring to the MAO readers attention to are by 2 our of our favorite artists who you might not know well.

HumphreyDavid_Alone The first is a whimsical painting by Sikkema Jenkins & Co. artist, David Humphrey.

We've always been impressed with David's provocative work.

His surreal paintings remind you of Koons, and Kenny Scharf but with an energized  style all his own.

David's works are in some super impressive collections, such as the NY Metropolitan Museum, and the Boston Museum of Fine Art.

(Photo #1, by David Humphrey,

Alone in the Tropics, 2006, Acrylic on canvas, 20 x 16 inches

Courtesy of the artist and Sikkema Jenkins & Co., New York, $2,800)

The Second work is by CRG artist, Sam Reveles. Sam's paintings are full of energy and motion. Your eyes can't help but be excited with his explosions of color and depth in many of his art work. MAO frequently thinks of them as Brice Marden paintings on speed!  Sam's last exhibition this year at CRG was a total sensory overload.

RevelesSam_wilderness_study Sam's work is also in some amazing museums, including The Whitney, The Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Dallas Museum of Art. 

(Photo #2, by Sam Reveles, Wilderness Study #9, 2006, Gouache and pencil on paper, 22 3/4 x 30 1/8 inches,  Courtesy of the artist and CRG Gallery , New York )

So MAO hopes to see you all at the event..

Please say hi. With all these generous artist donations it should be a great night!

August 23, 2008

Jeremy Kost's photo of Amanda Lepore at the DPA re:Form Charity Auction

We at MAO just love Jeremy Kost's new photo of Amanda Lepore which will be at the DPA re:Form Charity Auction on September 3rd.

The DPA has managed to get quite an impressive list of amazing art donations.  But one that stood out from the pack was Jeremy's boobolicious photo of Amanda Lepore.  Amanda is the self proclaimed Number 1 Transsexual in the world, she is a walking piece of plastic ass performance art.

Amanda de Milo

(Photo #1, Jeremy Kost, "Amanda de Milo", 2008, 33" x 24", injket on paper, edition of 5)

This work, a digital print is made from 3 collaged and enlarged Polaroids,it addresses issues of Objectification, Celebrity, Beauty and Sexuality.  The fabulous print, clearly and suggestively references the 1970's work of Andy Warhol, Robert Mapplethorpe and David Hockney.  Kost lets the viewer get a peek into his underworld of the exclusive and subversive NYC club kid scene.

Much of Jeremy Kost's artwork borders on intense voyeurism. Like Nan Goldin (insider-as-diarist), he documents his nightlife activities, following around the tragic Paris Hilton, and Lindsay Lohan hip celebrities types of the moment trying their best to be fabulous.

Most recently Jeremy has focused his Polaroid camera on steamy hot young hookers, entrepreneurs,would be models beautiful boys. Where he has been deconstructing them into pure objects of beauty and sexuality. Checkout his recent hot hot hot Fawbush edition.

You can also see more of Jeremy Kost's work at his DC gallery Conner Contemporary, and his own artist website.

MAO had a chance to catch up and ask this hot up and coming artist a few questions..

MAO Q : Why photo's of Celebrities? Club kids, Drag Queens, hustlers/boys

JK : Well, I think that they all relate to each other... My work really started with the East Village (tranny, drag queen, go-go boy) work and transcended to Celebrities, Boys, and international work (a la Thailand)... To me they all build subtle narratives without being so direct, and I think they also all speak to different notions of celebrity... the  boys are a little different b/c they speak to ideas of intimacy, vulnerability, and so forth... the series of boys is really inspired quite a bit by Mapplethorpe, Warhol, and Pierson to be honest...

MAO Q : Where did you take this photo? When?

JK : It was in a dressing room at the old Boys Room.. I'd guess about 7 months ago maybe...

MAO Q : Why is it in 3 parts? Is one polaroid not big enough for Amanda?

JK : Well, I had been making these photographs of boys for my "Total Package" edition to coincide with my show at Colette in Paris... I was shooting 6 polaroids (3 from the front and 3 from the back).  When one thinks about plastic surgery, the connotation of cutting and reassembling flesh is fairly apparent...   I titled it "Amanda de Milo" b/c for some reason, well, I thought the posture reminded me of Venus in a very twisted downtown NYC way

MAO Q : How does this work fit into your body of work?

JK : It sort of ties a few different things together.... Amanda is well represented in my "downtown NYC work" for sure... how could she not be?  As I continue the development of these Hockney and Mapplethorpe inspired collage works, which are scanned and then printed much larger as inkjet on paper prints, currently in an edition of 5... as they get MUCH larger, I think the edition size will decrease significantly.

Amanda de Milo!! What an exciting artwork for the Drug Policy Alliance! Thanks Jeremy for the generous donation.

So, If you've not bought your tickets to the DPA's re:FORM art charity auction..get them quick before the event sells out. Go Here to Buy your ticket.

August 21, 2008

Work by Ryan Humphrey at the DPA re:FORM art auction

Work by Ryan Humphrey at the DPA re:FORM art auction.

So we're going to continue to highlight some of the exceptional items artists donated to the DPA's re:FORM art auction on September 3rd at Cheim and Read Gallery.. If you missed our last post on the donation by Andy Diaz Hope..check it out. Don't forget to get your tickets now.. right here!

Ryan_Humphrey_Axe Today's focus is on artist Ryan Humphrey and his cool AX..

You may know his work from the hot hot hot cutting edge DCKT Contemporary Galleryon the Lower East Side.. where Ryan has his next  new solo show opening on September 18th.

Or you couch potatoes may know Ryan from his TV appearance on the Bravo show Top Design (Season 1) last year. Ryan didn't win.. but he certainly added to the reality TV Drama.

Recently Ryan has completed a big commission for The Progressive Corporation (http://art.progressive.com/) where he turned a John Deere riding tractor into a mini big-rig for a campaign.

He's been in a bunch of group shows including Five by Five: Contemporary Artists on Contemporary Art at The Whitney, a Touring group show- "Boys Will be Boys" curated by Shamim Momin http://www.ici-exhibitions.org/archives/boys/boys.htm

Plus, Ryan has had a solo show at the Kemper Museum of Fine Art curated by Elizabeth Dunbar http://www.kemperart.org/exhibits/RyanHumphreyessay06.asp

Here's a few questions we got to ask Ryan about his generous donation. (photo #1, Ryan Humphrey, Ax, 2008, Wood, steel, and enamel, 36 x 7x 1.5")

Q : Tell me a bit about your donation ?

The axe is painted to look like Eddie Van Halen's guitar.  This technique of layering tape and spray paint is a sort of personal folk art that he came up so that he would stand out on stage. 

 I see this technique as being visually symbolic for the will and desire to be outstanding and innovative. I do a couple of objects every year or so with this pattern, the same way Duchamp would release a couple of readymade's every year.

Q : Why did you make this Ax ?

I've done everything from a rotary phone, to a Saarinen chair, to a BMW hood.  I chose the axe for several reasons.  Firstly, guitars are often called axes, secondly I like that it is utilitarian tool that has nothing to do with music but still alludes to a particular lifestyle and thirdly it can be seen as potentially violent. Thousands of law enforcement agents die each year at the hands Marijuana drug cartels in Mexico.  At least if it were legalized it could be regulated.  Think of it as a prop from a Quentin Tarentino film.

Thanks Ryan for such a thoughtful donation.. perfect for DPA! And certainly it's a work of art that any fireman or  ax murderer collector would be proud to have in their collection.

August 12, 2008

Andy Diaz Hope artwork at the DPA re:FORM Charity Auction

Andy Diaz Hope artwork at the Drug Policy Alliance re:FORM art Auction, September 3rd.

Since we at MAO love the DPA, and think the re:FORM event is going to be an ART night not to be missed

(get your tickets here)

We at MAO were going to highlight a few of the amazing and generous artist donations over the next few weeks.

The first one.. is from artist Andy Diaz Hope.

Andy_Diaz_Hope_Fuck_You_Im_A_Model It's a photographic portrait which has been obsessively meticulously encased in small individual drug capsules.

Title : "Fuck you, I'm a Model"  2006
C-prints, U.V. coated gel capsules, artist frame
edition 2/3 size : 15" x 18" x 0.5"

Courtesy of the artist, Catherine Clark Gallery, San Francisco and Schroeder Romero, New York | Estimated retail value: $4,900

Here's a brief description from the artist :

The photo was taken on Nov. 1st, 2005.  The woman in the photo was still wearing part of her costume from the night before when she had been Kate Moss, with a baby doll and a big bag of flour representing another less legal substance.  Over the course of the evening, she sprinkled powder over everyone and replied to their protests with "Fuck you. I'm a model!"  Eventually she lost the baby and was seen wandering the party looking for it.

The work is from Andy's "Morning After Series" which is included in the permanent collection of the NY MoMA think BIG MONEY!. The morning after portraits are portraits of people in front of their medicine cabinets or in their local pharmacies with hangovers, migraines, morning sickness and other maladies self-inflicted or bestowed by nature.  The project began as the artists attempt to represent how, through pharmaceutical and recreational  drugs, we have moved beyond merely representing our natural heredity to representing our natural heredity +/- our drug intake used to modify, improve or forget parts of our heredity we're not so fond of.

When MAO asked the artist.. why These "Morning After" Portraits ?

Andy said.. In hindsight, I think the "morning after portraits" began as a  reaction at a time in my life where several close friends had crossed the line in their drug usage and began to have serious problems.  At the same time, a friend suffering from depression went to a psychiatrist to talk about it and instead received a 4 page questionnaire and a prescription for anti-depressants.

Clearly.. the work from this artist is perfect for a DPA charity event.. 

Here's a note from the artist's website :

The series looks behind the mirror to expose the inner workings of our medicine cabinets and our relationship to them as our doctor, psychologist, cosmetician and spiritual healer. It appeals to the viewer’s voyeuristic desire to look inside another’s hidden cabinet of frailties and insecurities. To see another’s vulnerabilities through the medicines they take strips away that person’s invincibility while bolstering one’s own.

We find these portraits thoughtful, powerful, and images with important social context for our time. Andy's work will also be included in the inaugaral exhibition of the Museum of Art and Design in NYC this fall, so we're lucky glad one is already in the MAO family art collection.

Thanks Andy for such a generous donation. 

July 24, 2008

Save the Date.. re:FORM Charity Art Auction for the Drug Policy Alliance

re:FORM Art Auction & Cocktail Reception
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
6:00pm -- 9:00pm
Cheim & Read gallery
547 West 25th St .
New York , NY   10001

Event More  Details here : re:Form event website

Re_form_DPA The Drug Policy Alliance art event in 2005 was an amazing art night... this biennial event..promises to be even bigger and better.

re:FORM is about more than just the art. It's the best opportunity for the New York-area arts community to mix, mingle, be fabulous and support the work of Drug Policy Alliance (DPA)

For those clueless who don't know, the DPA seeks to promote alternatives to the drug war based on science, compassion, health and human rights.  This organization works locally, nationally, and internationally to protect our freedoms and ensure that our drug policies no longer arrest, incarcerate, disenfranchise and otherwise harm millions of nonviolent people.

Buy your tickets now -- it’s only $150 for a regular ticket and $100 for those aged 35 years and younger. All tickets will include entry to an after party being coordinated by their way cool Young Leadership Committee.

The night will honor Donald Baechler, Dr. Mathilde Krim and Fred Tomaselli.

Donations for the art auction are still coming in... but so far they have work generously donated by these amazing artists : 
Vito Acconci
Jesse Alpern
Josh Azzarella
Donald Baechler
Ross Bleckner
Fanny Bostrom
Kelie Bowman
Julia Chiang
Maxi Cohen
Julia Condon
Annabel Daou
Andy Diaz Hope
Judith Hudson
David Humphrey
Ryan Humphrey
Louise Lawler
Dan McCleary
Adam Ogilvie
Mike Quinn
Sam Reveles
Shelby Ross
Adam Stennett
STO
Fred Tomaselli
Rhonda Tymeson
Lawrence Weiner
Eric White
Xawery Wolski
Rob Wynne

So you can see just from the preliminary list, it's going to be a great art charity auction.

And, FYI, As the event's official blog sponsor.. MAO will be posting several stories featuring some of the art items being put up for auction by these smart thoughtful generous artists.

So stay tuned my Little MAO-ettes..with the who's who of the NYC art world in attendance, this event is going to be one exciting night! So, Put September 3rd in your over booked social calendars now.

May 19, 2008

ACRIA - Unframed 2008 Chairty Art Auction

OK..MY little MAO-ettes..Here's your big chance to help a great AIDS organization, ACRIA.. and to buy some hard to get art work for totally bargain prices.

This Tuesday, May 20th from 5 to 8pm at the Charles Cowles Gallery. There will be smart cocktails.. Plus.. Of course, MAO and his posse will be there..so you know the night will be totally FABULOUS! Don't miss this one! Official details here.

Oh..By the way.. ACRIA has a really great limited edition print program...well worth checking out.

Acria_2008_art_auction

December 19, 2007

Tis the Season to be Giving to Arts Education!!

So... for all you rich artists, gallerinas, and collectors getting even richer riding the insane wave during the golden age of Contemporary Art.

Bulldogsrockydaisyrockychristmas Ho.. Ho.. Ho..!!   It's about time to give a little back to Art Education.

Mr. Tyler Green of Modern Art Notes.. "The most influential of all the visual-arts blogs" cough..  has put together a selective list of very worthy arts education projects in bad need of your support.

So please.. click here.. read the sappy sweet note from the art teacher looking for financial help.. and give..give..give...  it will make you feel really good!  Trust MAO....it did. :-)

The future of contemporary art and our children's education is in your hands! Now that's scary!

Plus..it's almost Christmas.. so give a little!  PLEASE!  It will make Tyler happy too!

October 25, 2006

Philanthropy In America - The Arts Get Short Changed! Big Time!

Well.. if you  haven't seen the bad news yet.. it's pretty sad. Today, according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy, for 2005, Arts organizations, as part of The Philanthropy 400, came up very short this year. Private Arts donations were down over 10% in 2005, while the largest charities overall, saw donations rise 13%. Ouch!

Well... at least religious groups were up an insane 24.2%, Praise The Lord..and pass the collection plate!! Yikes! Dr. Quiz..Is it too late for us to move to Canada?? How depressing.

Here are the sad numbers :

Philanthropy_in_america2005_2

Granted these arts numbers are a bit depressed by all the Katrina & Tsunami Relief money, so they may not be all that grim. Thank you G. W. Bush!! So arts supporters, before you get out the arsenic checkbook, here are more details.. check out today's posting on The Chronicle of Philanthropy

In case you were wondering here are the top 5..

  1. MOMA --------------------------------------------------- 239.2 Million
  2. Houston's Museum of Fine Arts  --------------------- 210.2 Million
  3. Smithsonian Intuitions in Washington -------------- 163.7 Million
  4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art NYC ---------------  96.4 Million
  5. American Museum of Natural History ----------------- 84.4 Million

Wow.. only $239.2 Million (MOMA), and $96.4 Million (MET).. so it's obvious why these greedy people they needed to raise their admission price to $20 per person. Well.. Here's a very delusional positive story from Bloomberg news by Patrick Cole with some more grim details.

Download Arts_Giving2005_bloombergNews.txt

June 06, 2006

Shirin Neshat at Creative Time

Shirin_neshat_at_creativetime_1Last week was the Creative Time Benefit Celebration, honoring artist/photographer Shirin Neshat.
They featured 3 of her great movies (Passage 2001, Tooba 2002, and The Last Word 2003), and had a short Q&A session between Shirin and very tall performance Artist Marina Abramovic. (Photo #1)

Unfortunately during their brief talk, there was a huge thunderstorm, and much to everybodies shock, water began to flow heavily into the old 12th street movie theater. Luckily Shirin is the consummate professional, and while many of the benefit attendees went screaming running for cover, Shirin completed her Q&A session.

At this Creative Time event they also featured a  very nice Art Auction to benefit the charity.
There were several interesting works donated by many well respected artists.

They even auctioned off one of the recently sold out Creative Time Marilyn Minter "Shit Kickers" images, which was a March'06 MAO Art Deal of the month.

FYI.. it was initially available in April for only a small $500 donation, but for all those lucky MAO readers owners, at last weeks benefit auction the price went well over $1650. I didn't see what the final winning bid was.. but it looked great.. and people were bidding it up!

Smurf_at_creative_timeHere's a photo of my cute FI Housemate and friend "The Smurf," heavily drinking and looking at some of the various art auction items. You know.. whenever I see pictures of my friend, The Smurf.. I think.. He looks pretty good for 42. What do you think? Sexy?

Neither one of us were lucky enought to buy anything at the auction.. but it was fun watching everyone wait till the last possible minute to sneak put in their silent bids.