the Matchup Prize for 2007: Rogelio Manzo

Dallas, TX, February 29, 2008 -- Misshapen figures or reflections of life? A common comment from the jurists for this years judging was some variation of: “I was prepared to pass this work by, but something compelling about it called me back and impressed me to take a second look; and then a third.” The astonishing paintings by Rogelio Manzo, winner of the 2007 Matchup Prize, are prime examples of brute introspective creativity.

Exhibit 1201 and the definition of art by the Royal Academy of Arts

If we ever needed a cogent reminder that it's in the eye of the beholder, we got it in spades from the summer show at the Royal Academy of Arts, London. David Hensel submitted a laughing head jesmonite sculpture to its open competition in contemporary art. Somehow, apparently in transit, the head got separated from its base and both were judged as separate works by the Academy. The head was rejected. The base, a hewn piece of flat stone with a wooden prop, found itself labeled as "Exhibit 1201" and selected for display from over 9000 submissions. The Academy denies any error, firmly stating that the base was "thought to have merit."

The Matchup Prize for 2006

The Matchup Prize 2006 awards were announced today in Dallas, Texas. Selected with difficulty from a substantial body of quality work, by a ranking poll of five independent jurors, we proudly announce the winners: for fine art and craftwork in the 2-dimensional category, Vildan Isik. In the 3-dimensional category, Robin Antar. Sincere kudos and thanks to all the artisan entrants whose works are displayed on the Matchup.com site, with special recognition to finalists Cari Rosemarin, Ellen Dreibelbis, Livio Lopedote, Jan Ayers and Nancy Devine.

A word to the "quitters"

At too many shows, whether art/craft or juried art events, some of our fellow vendors can always be found packing up early, and angry. After all, they took the time to show up, and someone forgot to tell the patrons that they are obligated to spend money at THEIR booth!!!! "If no one is buying, why should they be wasting their time??" is the too-frequent attitude.

You are doing your fellow artists/crafters a disservice by rolling up early. It's not only rude, but it damages the integrity of the show.

SO, do us all a big favor. Get over yourself, and take the rest of the world into consideration now and then. And if this lifestyle is such a chore, change careers.

xoxox
B.S.

Exhibit 1201 and the definition of art by the Royal Academy of Arts

If we ever needed a cogent reminder that it's in the eye of the beholder, we got it in spades from the summer show at the Royal Academy of Arts, London. David Hensel submitted a laughing head jesmonite sculpture to its open competition in contemporary art. Somehow, apparently in transit, the head got separated from its base and both were judged as separate works by the Academy. The head was rejected. The base, a hewn piece of flat stone with a wooden prop, found itself labeled as "Exhibit 1201" and selected for display from over 9000 submissions. The Academy denies any error, firmly stating that the base was "thought to have merit."

Wildflower, Richardson Texas

The Wildflower, Richardson, Texas Festival seemed to have its main accent on music, but there were some very nice artisan displays This reviewer had an interesting trip up on the Dart rail line. What exactly is the procedure when the ticket machine takes your money and doesn't spit out a ticket?...on a Sunday? Check out the homespun "day-in-the-life" blog of one of the fine exhibitors.

Art in the Square, Southlake

Art in the Square, Southlake. Pleasant surprise! First time visit to this City of Southlake Fine Arts Festival, expecting a ho-hum collection of works. Wrong! This was a full-blown well presented collection of quality works. Now on our list of "must attend" Texas shows.

Ft. Worth Main Street Art Fair

Main Street Art Fair in Fort Worth Texas this past weekend. Great art. Great weather. Great entertainment. Will Dallas ever come up with anything comparable?