BLAKROS
Stemming from a class that a lot of others seemed to dread - Art Direction - I was able to return to my traditional roots and produce some more "analog" pieces for our gallery show, "One to One: Dimensions of Duality”.
Having had experience in event management, I was not completely surprised when I found myself directing the show. Apropos of our theme, in addition to producing my own original work, I was dually responsible for the essential day-to-day planning of the show from outlining & managing budgets/finances, scheduling & staffing fundraising events, directing our graphics & marketing team and serving as liaison to our gallery space, the Chicago Art Department. At times it really did seem like I spent more time in spreadsheets than any design software, but I knew that those things needed to be done in order to get to the fun stuff.
I produced three pieces for the show under the collective banner of BLAKROS. The pieces all stemmed from a thought process that turned in on itself and explored how to visually represent the concept that an idea or thought, despite being “real” is far removed from being a reality. I worked with a decayed floral theme and produced three distinct pieces- a 24” x 36” acrylic painting on canvas, a two-foot tall sculpture, and a mixed media video installation.
The show was very well received, with several pieces sold the night of the event. Using savvy marketing, fundraising and perhaps more importantly a cash bar, we were also the first class to be able to turn a profit with students receiving profit shares at the end of the semester.
BLAKROS I: ROSA ATER DESIDERIUM
Left: Digital concept pieces prepared for the painted piece.
Right: The final painting (36" x 48" acrylic)
