WHAT IS THIS PLACE? 

The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery is a nonprofit organization created by Laurel Siedl. The gallery opened its doors in September 2009. Laurel refurbished a building where she raised rabbits into an art gallery. The place is now transformed into spaces that feature artists from all over the country. Laurel’s passion for art is palpable in every corner of this unconventional space. Meeting her is akin to stepping into the mind behind the madness, an experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery stands out not only for its unique setting in the desert but also for its commitment to showcasing emerging artists and promoting the culture of art collecting. Collecting art has long been a passion for many individuals, ranging from seasoned collectors seeking to expand their portfolios to novices eager to start their art collections. The gallery provides a welcoming environment for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of artworks that cater to varying tastes and preferences. Art collecting is not just about acquiring pieces; it is a deeply personal and enriching experience that allows individuals to connect with the stories behind each artwork, the emotions they evoke, and the artists who created them. The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery recognizes the significance of this connection and aims to foster a sense of community among art collectors, artists, and visitors alike. It is located at 77575 Highway 62 Twentynine Palms, CA 92277.

THE GALLERY/TRAILERS

The gallery itself is a mix of trailers and structures housing two galleries and eight rooms brimming with collections of artwork. From sculptures and assemblages that seem to emerge from the earth to original oil paintings and crafted works, GOA showcases a medley of artistic expressions that push boundaries and spark intrigue. If you are visiting the desert during the hot months, this is a good place to enjoy the indoor, air-conditioned trailer galleries. If you are unsure if you have arrived, look out for glimpses of the tall Pepsi Can from the highway before you turn off the main road.

The artwork is both whimsical and professional and is on full display in each gallery. The eclectic energy of the gallery creates a vibrant atmosphere where creativity thrives and boundaries blur. When I visited GOA I was lucky enough to view the work of Suzanne Ross.  Her pieces beckon viewers with their symbolic allure. Like a moth drawn to the flame, you will also be drawn into each room of the GOA gallery while you meander the rock-enclosed trails around each structure. In addition to the visual feast of artworks, visitors to GOA can also enjoy live performances by local bands on some occasions, adding a dynamic layer of entertainment to their artistic exploration.

BEYOND THE WALLS OF THE GALLERY

The surrounding 29 Palms desert landscape provides a serene backdrop for contemplation and inspiration. The vast expanse of the desert, with its rugged terrain and stark beauty, has long been a source of fascination for artists seeking to capture its essence in their works. The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery serves as a bridge between the natural landscape and the world of art, merging the two in a harmonious union that enriches the creative experience for artists and visitors alike. As visitors explore the gallery and immerse themselves in the diverse artworks on display, they are invited to embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the artistic world.

UPCOMING EXHIBIT AT GOA

Looking ahead, Sherri Scott Studios will exhibit at GOA with TheDANCE collection in March, offering a glimpse into the artist’s unique vision. TheDANCE_boulders, mountains, and trails is a vibrant piece that captures the essence of the desert landscape in a symphony of colors and shapes. Each element in the painting, from the resolute boulders to the majestic mountains and meandering trails, invites viewers on a visual journey filled with vitality, grandeur, and rhythm. The artwork celebrates life’s diverse dances and serves as a testament to the enchanting spirit of GOA Gallery.

For art collectors seeking to venture off the beaten path and discover a world where creativity knows no bounds, Glass Outhouse Art Gallery is a destination like no other. Immerse yourself in the magic of GOA and experience the thrill of uncovering hidden treasures in the desert’s artistic wonderland. Look up, look down, and wherever you step, you may see some artwork. Take some photos and share your crazy finds! The desert landscape and community never disappoint when you are looking for adventures!

NOW THAT YOU ARE OUT IN 29 PALMS, PUT THESE STOPS ON YOUR LIST

Lunch: Founded in 2015 by chef Everton Gordon, Kitchen in the Desert is a Caribbean and New American restaurant and bar in Twentynine Palms, CA. Locally owned and run, KITD serves up the best family-style dishes in a tropical desert oasis setting. Combining organic ingredients with heritage spice recipes, KITD has become the premier spot for elevated dining in 29 Palms.

Visit the Historic 29 Palms Gallery: This gallery opened in 1963 in a historic adobe built in 1936 by the Stubbs brothers for western author Tom J. Hopkins. Twentynine Palms Artists’ Guild is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that owns and operates the 29 Palms Art Gallery. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop as well for unique artistic finds! If you are traveling, there are easy-to-carry prints available to purchase in the Gallery and Gift Shop as well.

For more outdoor installations, visit Desert X locations: Desert X is produced by The Desert Biennial, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded in California, conceived to produce recurring international contemporary art exhibitions that activate desert locations through site-specific installations. Its purpose is to present public exhibitions of art that respond meaningfully to the conditions of desert locations, the environment, and indigenous communities; promoting cultural exchange and education programs that foster dialogue and understanding among cultures and communities about shared artistic, historical, and societal issues; and provide an accessible platform for artists from around the world to address ecological, cultural, spiritual, and other existential themes.

End your day with drinks and music poolside at the famous 29 Palms Inn: The Inn is a popular destination for creatives, writers, artists, and amateur/professional photographers, so bring your camera.  I also recommend staying at this unique property in one of their casitas or at one of their retreat events. Make sure you also visit the boathouse on the pond.

Enjoy Sherri Scott Studios: After immersing herself in the action sports design world for several years, Sherri Scott is now embarking on an exciting artistic adventure.  Driven by a deep passion for the arts, she enjoys experimenting with traditional and contemporary media in her paintings.  Inspired by her exploration of the outdoors, she finds inspiration in the picturesque landscapes and the captivating elements of land and sea.  A versatile artist and designer, with a strong background in designing for brands including her successful apparel line, she brings a unique perspective to her designs.  Her technical design skills and creative vision blend seamlessly to create her work.  Today her deep appreciation shines through in her artwork, she continues to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons.

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About the author:

Sherri Smith spends time painting between two cities: Solana Beach www.sherriscottstudios.com and Yucca Valley www.yuccavalleylandings.com in her studio in a hangar at the Yucca Valley Airport. The influence of these locations inspires her artwork in land + sea + desert + horizons. Exhibitions: Joshua Tree National Park Association, 29 Palms Gallery, Laguna Art Gallery, Santa Barbara CAW, Las Lagunas, Off The Track and OMA [Oceanside Museum of Art]. 

Upcoming project in 2024: Yucca Valley public art project and exhibitions at the new Hi-Desert Artist gallery. Please visit her websites to view artwork at www.sherriscottstudios.com and www.yuccavalleylandings.com. Social: @sherriscottstudios, @yuccavalleylandings

Learn More: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Glass-Outhouse-Art-Gallery/317055216531, https://29palmsinn.com/about/, https://www.kitd29.com/, https://desertx.org/about/about, and https://visit29.org/

All images courtesy of Sherri Smith.

The post Discover The Artistic Crazy Wonderland of the Glass Outhouse Gallery appeared first on Art Business News.

Don’t miss visiting the Joshua Tree National Park Association Store’s West location during one of the local Yucca Valley 3rd Saturday art walks. These art walk exhibitions offer a unique opportunity for visitors, including art collectors, to experience the convergence of artistic expression and the preservation of Joshua Tree National Park. One of the highlights of any trip to Joshua Tree is immersing oneself in the vibrant art scene that has flourished within the park and its surrounding areas. The Joshua Tree National Park Store [JTNPA] showcases at each artwalk exhibition a wide variety of artwork, ranging from intricately woven tapestries to striking concrete sculptures, breathtaking photography, and captivating original paintings. With each exhibition centered around the park’s unique landscape or topics related to its conservation, attendees will see how the park inspires artistic expression and how each artist captures the essence of Joshua Tree National Park.  

Joshua Tree National Park Association Store, West Location

The west location store is in a charming western-style building with easy parking on the side streets. The staff are friendly, and you can see the pride they take in representing the park and the inspired artists at each artwalk exhibition. As an art collector, you’ll be pleased to know that the Joshua Tree National Park Association (JTNPA) Store’s West location plays a crucial role in supporting the park’s programming goals in education, interpretation, scientific research, and activities. By visiting the store and attending the artwalk exhibitions, not only will you have the chance to acquire unique artworks inspired by the majestic Joshua Tree National Park, but you’ll also contribute to the preservation efforts and the promotion of artistic expression.

JTNPA RECENT EXHIBITIONS

Exhibition: “Desert Nocturnals”

This exhibition featured artwork showing the nighttime activities of the park.  Visiting the park during the day and hiking is not to be missed, but including an evening visit allows you to see the change of light and abundant activity that starts to happen at the end of the day.  As part of this exhibition a local park ranger gave a talk about light pollution.  Designated as an international dark sky park, Joshua Tree works to protect its night sky.

If you want to see the stars, planets, and passing meteors, the Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors the chance to admire them all.  The park is protected by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA). When you do come to the park for a night viewing please use red lights only. Do not use bright white flashlights, headlamps, or cell phones. It takes 20-30 minutes for the human eye to adjust to very low-light conditions.  Bright lights delay this process.  Note: you can turn a regular flashlight into a red light by covering it with red cellophane or similar item.

Exhibition: “Where two deserts Meet”

There are two desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, that come together in Joshua Tree National Park. You can see the diversity of plants and animals that make their homes in a land based on the climates in each ecosystem.

The Mohave receives less summer rainfall and endures longer periods of freezing temperatures in the winter than the Colorado Desert with its more southern location, lower elevation, and exposure. The Joshua Tree is exclusive to the Mojave Desert, whereas the Saguaro cactus prefers the Colorado side.

Attending a JTNPA artwalk is not only an opportunity to appreciate incredible artwork but also a chance to support the preservation efforts of Joshua Tree National Park. The association works tirelessly to promote conservation awareness and raise funds for various projects aimed at safeguarding the park’s ecological integrity. By participating in these artwalks, visitors actively contribute to the ongoing protection of this natural wonder.

If you are an Artist: By participating in the JTNPA artwalk, you have the opportunity to create artwork that showcases the unique beauty and essence of Joshua Tree National Park. By immersing yourself in the park’s environment and learning about its distinct features, you can gain deeper insights and an appreciation for its natural wonders. Through your artistic process, you can explore various themes and capture the essence of Joshua Tree in your artwork. This experience not only allows you to express your creativity but also serves as a platform to educate others about the park’s significance and the importance of conservation. By creating art that fits the JTNPA exhibition theme, you contribute to the overall narrative and understanding of Joshua Tree National Park. Your artwork becomes a powerful medium to communicate and inspire others to connect with nature, appreciate its uniqueness, and support conservation efforts. In addition to showcasing your talent, participating in the JTNPA artwalk allows you to engage with other artists, visitors, and park enthusiasts. This collaborative environment fosters the exchange of ideas and perspectives, providing an enriching experience for both artists and attendees alike. So, as a participating artist, you not only have the opportunity to create meaningful artwork but also to deepen your connection with Joshua Tree National Park and its extraordinary features. Let your creativity flourish, and use your art to inspire others to cherish and protect this remarkable natural treasure.

Save the Date for upcoming Joshua Tree National Park Association Exhibitions:

• January – History of Joshua Tree National Park
• March – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
• May – Desert Flora

Where to Stay:  additionally, Joshua Tree National Park offers various camping opportunities for those who want to connect with nature on a more immersive level.  The park provides several campgrounds, each offering a different experience and level of amenities. Whether you prefer a rustic tent camping experience or the convenience of RV camping, Joshua Tree National Park has options to suit your needs. Camping in the park allows you to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes, starry nights, and peaceful solitude that make this place so special. If camping is not your preferred option, there are also plenty of Airbnb rentals available in the area surrounding Joshua Tree National Park. If you happen to be visiting during the right time, you might catch one of the music festivals that take place in Joshua Tree. The desert has been a popular destination for music events, attracting talented artists and enthusiastic crowds.

Check the event calendar using some links below and see if there’s an JTNPA artwalk, a local music festival, happening during your visit! With its captivating art scene, stunning natural landscapes, camping options, Airbnb rentals, and exciting music festivals, the desert truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re an art collector, outdoor enthusiast, or music lover, this enchanting destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Learn more about Joshua Tree National Park Association [JTNPA]: https://joshuatree.org/ and follow on social @JTNPA @joshuatreenps

Learn more about featured artists and other local desert artists: Artist Studio Tours

Other Social links to follow for upcoming desert events: @visit_joshuatree, #joshuatree, #joshuatreenationalpark, #wanderlust, #joshuatreeadventures

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Author’s Bio:

After immersing herself in the action sports design world for several years, Sherri Scott is now embarking on an exciting artistic adventure.  Driven by a deep passion for the arts, she enjoys experimenting with various traditional and contemporary media in her paintings.  Inspired by her exploration of the outdoors, she finds inspiration in both the picturesque landscapes and captivating elements of land and sea. 

A versatile artist and designer, with a strong background in designing for brands including her own successful apparel line, she brings a unique perspective to her designs.  Her technical design skills and creative vision blend seamlessly to create her work.  Today her deep appreciation shines through in her artwork, she continues to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons.   Galleries: JTNPA, 29Palms Gallery, Santa Barbara CAW and Off The Track.  Upcoming project in 2024: Yucca Valley public art project and exhibitions at the new Hi-Desert Artist gallery. Please visit her websites to view artwork at www.sherriscottstudios.com and www.yuccavalleylandings.com. 

The post Where Artistic Expression Meets Preservation appeared first on Art Business News.

World Square, a premier shopping center located in Sydney, Australia, recently partnered with creative hot shop VANDAL to commission a sustainable art sculpture. The sculpture was developed by artist Gabrielle Filtz and is titled “Weaving Thru The World”.

“The recycled materials used in the artwork consist of discarded fabrics, ribbons, and rope from old City of Sydney street banners, festivals, and flags – including Mardi Gras festivals. Collected from Reverse Garbage in Marrickville, I loved using discarded materials to create public art, rather than seeing it end up in a landfill.” Says artist Gabrielle Filtz from VANDAL.

World Square Marketing Manager, Marina Zarnitsyna says “Bold, bright, and unique artworks have overtaken the entrances and laneways at World Square, enticing passers-by into the precinct to explore the dynamic mix of over 100 food, fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and essential service stores. The Spanish Stairs at George Street is one of the highlights of this bold and colorful project.”

Gabrielle Filtz wanted to not only create an oversized public art sculpture but also ensure the artwork could be created in a sustainable fashion. “I’m very proud of the sustainable use of recycled materials,” says Filtz. “I kept asking myself how the artwork can show Sydney, and the wider world, that we are creating a beautiful statement piece and also be mindful of the delicate ecosystem on this beautiful planet of ours.”

After multiple trips to Reverse Garbage in Marrickville, she was sure she had a colorful palette of recycled, reusable mediums to work with.

Filtz used Old City of Sydney street banners, ribbons, rope, and fabrics to create her masterpiece. By purchasing recycled materials from Reverse Garbage, she supported their recycling contributions and also gave life to Sydney’s cultural heritage for art lovers and city-goers to enjoy!

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Markowicz Fine Art Gallery is excited to announce its “Encompass” exhibition in their Dallas Galley location. Partnering with Bel-Air Fine Art, a prestigious fine art gallery with locations in France, Abu Dhabi, Gstaad, Miami, and Italy, their partnership allows the two galleries to help collectors access a wide range of art from all over the world. 

The exhibition is open to the public at their Dallas location and features exquisite new works from Italian artist Annaluigia Boretto, ‘Annalù’, and French artist Lyès-Oliview Sidhoum, ‘Lyes”. 

‘Annalù is an Italian artist creating dreamy sculptures that enchant onlookers with her unique incorporation of hyper-realistic splashes of water and bold brilliant colors. She uses elements of nature that appear to be suspended in time, which she achieves by focusing on texture and illusion. She is best known for her glassy, splashing sculptures. 

Lyès is a graffiti artist who has been creating art since the young age of 11 in the streets of Lyon, France. He developed his work through his experiences with travel and meeting other creatives in the graffiti world. His work evokes an “energy that constitutes reality, which today remains a part of the mystery and almost becomes spirituality in a sense.” Lyès uses high-tech technology of fine art archival printing that stops 99/9% of UV rays, through encapsulation to create his pieces. 

The exhibit runs through July 31, 2021. 

Markowicz Fine Art Gallery 

1700 Oak Lawn Ave. Ste. 200

Dallas, TX 75207

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“I decided that as an artist myself I outright to come up with a way to inhabit that space [and] bring people to the barren landscape.” Jim started painting local characters on large flat boards and hanging them on the fence near the vacant lot. Gradually, other local groups began to suggest other interim uses for the lot and small events began to pop up in the unused space. This is when Bliesner realized the vacant space would make a great platform for an art installation.

Typically, installations happen in museums where they decide on a concept and commission an artist to build it in a designated space. Bliesner thought “why couldn’t we do that?”

As a Plein air painter himself, Jim has also done other sculptures in City Heights with a focus on community engagement. Therefore, he decided this new installation should include other artists. “I [wanted] to see the local artists in City Heights emerge so I drafted an invite prioritizing [local artists] but included everyone. I was hoping for a cross-fertilization experience.”

Bliesner soon received a $2,000 fund from the Synergy Foundation and searched for artists to help him create the sculpture. He received interest from sixteen artists and gave them each $100 for materials to build the sculpture. The group of artists worked with a variety of materials including wood, chicken wire, old tires, scarves, and more. Artists include Edwin Lohr, Carlos Quezada, Marcus Montes, Tarrah Aroonsakool, Iain Gunn, Dianne Brunner, and Randy Lane, Vicente Rivera, Elida Chavez, Pete Evaristo, Melody De Los Cabos, and Mia Mercado a twelve-year-old emerging artist attending SCPA. Half of the artists are from City Heights and the other half from other cities.

The sculpture is planted in an old tire and filled with three 60 pound bags of cement with two upright bricks. “The variety [is] electric. The characters emerged for each artist’s personal struggle and design. The art became the art.” says Jim.

The sculpture will remain present until the lot is needed for future events. It can be viewed by locals from the sidewalk or driveby, making it a free “event” where art enthusiasts can gather and take in the beauty of the sculpture.

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Located in Champagne, France, Pommery’s grounds are unique in that they not only create simply delicious champagne but also host annual art exhibitions throughout the Maison Pommery property.

Maison Pommery has been a major player in the world of arts since its creation, focusing on contemporary art as a thrust of its patronage. Imagine visiting an esteemed modern House of Champagne and finding a world-class art collection. Pommery, always at the forefront of progress, trying to be in advance of technology, whether winemaking or in the art world, guides you through their art collection and installations with their app. Step by step, you will be completely immersed and virtually integrated, walking in the caves and through the exhibition, with an abundance of details and information.

Here at Art Business News, we had the pleasure of asking Madame Nathalie Vranken, co-owner, and head of the marketing division for Pommery, a few questions to learn more about the incredible Pommery Art Collection — from how it originated to how they choose the artists, and when their next exhibition will take place.

The art collection seen throughout Maison Pommery is made of the memories of past exhibitions in the cellars of the Domain Pommery Reims. New exhibitions are offered every year, typically from April through November. They are quite extensive and require three to four months to produce. At Pommery,  they believe the art installations are equally as important as their champagne harvest, which Madame Vranken attributes to “one of the greatest moments of the year.”

The artists are selected by Madame Vranken and a curator that changes with each exhibition. They choose a theme and then select the artists from there. The artists are received individually and the artwork is presented in the cellars at the beginning of the project. Madame Vranken also says “most of the art pieces are special productions for the exhibition. Only a few will reach the collection, pieces we particularly appreciate. Every exhibition is a new Arty Adventure, each including 40 different pieces.”

Pommery produces an inspiring video of their art installations, some with placement in their caves, some pieces of the collection spread out in the Domain Pommery, and some presented in the offices where the employees of Pommery can enjoy seeing them.

The exhibition is open to the public through visits to the cellars, which are usually open daily.  Although Pommery is currently closed due to COVID-19, they are continuing to work towards their new exhibition, which they anticipate will be open at the beginning of June in a new space, The Cellier Pompadour.

To see a spectacular video of their cellar and art installations, visit the RAVE Virtual Art Experience site: https://redwoodartgroup.com/rave/pommery-champagne/

To learn more about Pommery and their art installations visit their website: https://www.champagnepommery.com/home

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Some artists focused on the eerie silence left behind by the intense lockdowns from March to June, while others tried to find ways to spread hope, motivation, and courage even in this bleak time. Unsurprisingly, many graffiti and street artists have incorporated COVID-19 themes into their work this past year.

As the virus is under some control, and lockdowns are gradually being lifted across the world, people have started stepping outside with precautionary measures. Muralists are taking this as an opportunity to utilize public places to showcase art and spread awareness. Toilet papers, face masks, and disinfectants are some of the common subjects of street artists. However, others are emphasizing boosting immunity, enhancing will power, and staying fit.

Here, we share with you some of the most creative COVID-19 themed art adorning cities all over the world. These contributions are popping up with each passing day as artists are becoming more and more involved. Some well-known murals related to COVID-19 are:

The gratitude, dedication, and support provided by healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 crisis are the most common subjects in street art. One graffiti artist in London did a commendable job highlighting the contribution of doctors during the pandemic. In the mural picturized above, the artists paid homage to junior doctors.

He specifically highlighted the contributions of resident doctors because they are constantly putting their lives at risk, work more, and are paid less in comparison to the senior physicians. However, they are still working day and night with full enthusiasm. An artwork specially dedicated to the resident staff boosts their morale and show them that their contributions are appreciated.

At a time when street artists were focusing on common pandemic related themes, Italian street artist Laika took a different step and focused on the restaurant staff. Since eateries are now opening, Laika focused on a Chinese restaurant owner, Sonia, wearing a fully covered gown along with a face mask.

Sonia’s message in Italian translates to “There’s an epidemic of ignorance going around… we must protect ourselves!”The artist tried to give a message that though the restaurants are opening, precautionary measures are still important. People working at the restaurant are equally affected by the pandemic. Thus, they are back to work but at risk and following new operating procedures.

Another great example is seen in Amsterdam, where the famous street artist FAKE painted a nurse with a Superman logo, titled Super Nurse! The nurse is shown wearing a mask, which is a typical representation of COVID-19. What is unusual is that she has the “S” logo of Superman on the front of the nurse’s uniform, reminding everyone that nurses, along with other frontline workers, are the true superheroes. 

The idea is to highlight the exceptional role played by the nursing staff in this condition of turmoil. These nurses are putting their life in danger serving the COVID-19 patients. Not just in the critical care unit, they are also doing the testing. The artwork received great recognition and appreciation globally, and it was selected as a digital art installation in London.

In Germany, another street artist, Uzey, took up his paints to encourage people to stay strong despite the hardships the pandemic has brought. The art shows a fully covered person carrying a pack of COVID-19 germs in his hand. The picture reveals that no matter how covered a person is, the virus is everywhere. Thus, maintaining social distance and practicing isolation is the only safe solution. Various colors used in the artwork are intended to bring some light to the colorless life these days. This street art gives a friendly message to humanity and tries to boost morale.

In Indonesia, a campaign related to COVID-19 murals started in August 2020. This street art in Jakarta quickly gained popularity as it depicts the message very clearly and powerfully. It highlights many things: firstly, it shows that the man is carrying a shield, which is somewhat similar to a mask, and therefore subconsciously, you are made to think that wearing a mask is the best defense against the virus.

Secondly, it brings a message of hope for the masses – it gives strength to the affected individuals for regaining their health. People who are still in a state of fear can also get some motivation from the thought-provoking art. It shows that we can fight and overcome any germ or virus, only if we have the will and if we take the right measures.

Some fans even interpreted the painting with respect to organizations that stood firm to safeguard society. Most notably, healthcare and human service organizations, but also small businesses and individuals initiated small efforts to help their communities from the financial and emotional effects of the pandemic.

For instance, many individuals started campaigns to buy from small businesses in their community to keep them from going out of business. Similarly, small businesses, like cleaning companies, started offering door-to-door and contact-less services for the safety of their clients.

Another street artist drew this painting of a nurse who is covered from head to toe in a gown, gloves, and face mask. She is portrayed as an angel of love with colorful wings. The artist showed how the nurse is ready to go for work. Such contributions for supporting the doctors, nurses, testing professionals, and the janitorial staff seems valuable in this crucial time. These people are the real heroes who are diligently performing their duties in high-risk areas.

Conclusion

In short, COVID-19 murals are brightening the streets across the globe. From humorous and playful styles to more serious and sympathetic themes, street artists have done an excellent job highlighting the issue. From highlighting the importance of healthcare workers to aiming at reviving the mood of infected individuals, each has highlighted the importance of working through the pandemic together.

Along with the artists mentioned here, tons of other artists like Pebsy, Pyritt, AFK, Jesus Cruz, and many others have made valuable contributions. They’ve expressed a collective feeling of fear, rage, and frustration developed during the lockdowns and isolations. And they have also helped us in regaining lost hope.

Thinking out of the box and taking out time in stenciling and painting the walls is a commendable step in uniting the society in this unprecedented time. Was one your favorite?

Author Bio:
Nouman provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. His educational background in the technical field and business studies helps him in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development and digital marketing. He occasionally writes articles for carpet cleaning. 

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Q: Introduce yourself – who are you and what do you do?

A: My name is Danijela Spitzer, but I present myself as Dani Ropi. I am a photographer in love. My work is based on photography, but I take pictures in sketch form. My specialty is technology, so I apply my images in different programs and paint them digitally. I believe in the future we will stop using our hands, therefore I spend my free time exploring different programs. After I print my work, I caption it with a quote I believe represents each particular piece of art, or I paint some parts of the picture. Usually, it is mixed media, but I love to refer to myself as an art journalist. Every piece of mine has a long story behind the colors I use and the quotes I apply to each image.

Q: What is your background?

A: I was born in Croatia on the Island of Pag. At the age of six, I took my father’s suitcase, packed it with my favorite outfits and snacks, and wrote a letter to my parents saying I was unhappy and was leaving to go on a mission to find my happiness. I was not an easy child. I was raised on a small island where I felt like I was suffocating. There was no room to explore or be creative. My country was at war, I was confused, angry, and aggressive towards everyone. I spent my time on the streets. My twenties were spent living all over Europe – Parma, Italy, Bilbao, Spain, and London, UK. I studied in London but never finished college even though I attended three different schools. College never fit with me, the big hooligan inside of me always had a problem following the system. I learn better by educating myself, listening to my heart, and traveling. 

Q: How do you work?

A: I work in the streets. The street is my beginning and end, filled with people, energy, and action, all of which are variables that inspire me to work. 

Q: What art do you most identify with?

A: I identify most with modern and contemporary art. I like to mix old with new. 

Q: What has been your favorite experience so far as an artist?

A: Leaving everything behind, coming to America, and starting from scratch in New York City. I came here three years ago, when my art did not even exist yet. In just three years I grew, created, learned, and transformed myself into a completely different person, a person I always dreamed about. That is why most of my work is dedicated to my beautiful New York City. Leaving was the hardest thing I have ever done but I didn’t give up, even though I wanted to.

Q: Who inspires you?

A: I am not inspired by one person, but rather streets, cities, traveling, breaking the rules, politics, and plain old good conversation. It depends on what mindset I am in, my art is very personal and everything comes from the emotions I am feeling during that time. That is why I call myself a photographer in love. 

Q: What is the best advice you have received?

A: NEVER GIVE UP.

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

A: I am lucky to say that work doesn’t feel like work. I go from a state of euphoria to complete stillness. I like to view this as regeneration, like a Phoenix. I can stay at home for months, enjoy myself, and delve into my emotions simply through cleaning or healing my inner circle. This gives me the energy to go back on the street and create my magic again!

Q: Have you been inspired in a new way since the shelter in place orders? Anything new? A recipe, an exercise recommendation?

A: Definitely, this time gave me an opportunity to think, feel, and create. In the middle of everything, I found myself in Tampa, Florida creating new pictures. I also saw how people can react so differently to the events happening in our country. The news of George Floyd has started a revolution. We live in the most inspiring time and I hope we can become the ones who design a new system, a new world. For an artist, that is magic. 

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By Linda Mariano

Thirty years ago, Art Miami first opened its doors, initiating the idea that Miami was more than a summer beach town. Then, in 2002, the concept expanded with the first Art Basel Miami fair. And the initial Miami Art Week was born. Today, Miami Art Week rocks Miami with hundreds of thousands of art lovers, galleries, artists, and art media coming from around the globe for the world’s largest international art event.

The focus, the development, and the determination have definitely made Miami more than a beach town. In fact, the growth has expanded from Miami Beach to Downtown to Brickell and Wynwood. The development of Midtown; the sophisticated Design District; the excitement of Wynwood’s galleries, studios, restaurants; and the urban art-focused Wynwood Walls have all contributed to Miami’s visual and creative arts development.

It comes with little surprise that Miami’s arts development will continue to expand  northward with the announcement of Oolite Arts’ move to the Little River neighborhood. Oolite Arts originated more than three decades ago when its founder, Ellie Schneiderman, struck out to find affordable workspaces for Miami’s visual artists. Today, the mission of helping artists help themselves continues with robust programming and community involvement. The new home, slated to open in 2022, will enable the organization to expand its artist residencies and provide local artists with a top-tier exhibition and theater space, in addition to a makerspace and classrooms for the 200-plus annual classes already offered to artists and the surrounding community.

In this northward development march—from Wynwood to Midtown, the Design  District, Little Haiti, Magic City, and now Little River, Miami is revitalizing its neighborhoods. With pop-up retail and entertainment among the first priorities for the new Little River innovation district, the arts, including gallery and studio development, will be part of the mix. Long established as an industrial area, Little River developers are looking to create a culturally diverse area that is a job creator, with an innovation focus, bringing in a range of retail, commercial, residential, and community opportunities.

It’s a long-term project for the city and for the Little River neighborhood. Frank Morrison, NAI Kurtz commercial/industrial real estate specialist, is excited about the Little River innovation district and the community development. “It’s a growth market and a very attractive neighborhood. Supporting a vibrant visual and creative arts community is an exciting first step in the plan with the Oolite Arts’ new space located on 72nd Street, right in the heart of the Little River neighborhood,” he told Art Business News. “We’re excited to be involved with the city in making Little River a revitalization and growth opportunity.”

It’s a long-range view of where Greater Miami is headed. An exciting plan for galleries, studios, theater, retail, and residential to revitalize and grow a unique area of the city. It will certainly be the next area to watch in Miami’s continued development and neighborhood revitalization.

About Little River
Little River is a neighborhood in Miami. The neighborhood takes its name from the Little River that runs along its northern edge. The rapidly developing Little River district is becoming a hotspot of art, design, and culture. Made up by the heart and soul of those who call it home, Little River is filled with the stories of people who live and work around its namesake. Its residents and businesses are connected by their drive, ambition, and the northern waters that wind into Biscayne Bay.

About NAI Kurtz
NAI Kurtz is a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and property management firm, a South Florida tradition for 50 years. Its motto of “Integrity, Longevity, Consistency, Servicem” is not just a list of words but represents demonstrated traits and the reason for our success. NAI Kurtz offers local, deep roots with years of experience combined with the international reach of NAI Global, a managed network that today has more than 400 offices strategically located throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific, with over 7,000 local market professionals, managing in excess of 425 million square feet of property. http://www.naiflorida.com/NAI-Kurtz

For more information, contact Frank Morrison:

O: 954-771-4400

C: 954-801-0830

E: FrankM@NAIKurtz.com

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