Friday 18th.. another great day at the fair. For the second day in a row, I spent my time down at the Street Art Fair. There is so much to take in there, I had to give it a two day spritz. Of the four fairs that coexist on this long weekend each year, the Street Art fair that fills the streets over by Burton Tower, seems to have the most consistent level of fine art work. By that I mean, that booth after booth exhibits a high degree of talent, innovation and excellence. This fair seems to have the most dense group of experience in a variety of media that I have seen, and as a true Ann Arborite with years of art fair experience, I can knowingly say that once again the Street Art fair has raised the bar. It will be hard to list my favorite artists, but I will give you some Must Sees! among the must sees.
I am drawn to innovative ideas, a good mixture of color and textures, and surprising details that an artist has incorporated. The experience of coming upon such finds is only heightened when I get the opportunity to meet wonderful artists behind their work. Laura Balombini, www.lbalombini.com, was just such an artist. Her artwork is sculptural using mixed media, creating beautiful and imaginative figures. All seem to have a beautiful innocence on their faces, and exhibit a freedom to experience all of life.
Another wonderful artist with captivating work was Mary Thomas, www.maryalaynethomas.com. Mary uses watercolors to create simple, almost humble, paintings that manage to inspire a feeling of freedom and hope as she incorporates nature's beauties into her work. What Mary does next to take her work to an even higher level is a wonderful technique that elevates her watercolor works to a dream like state. She applies an overcoat that while it may mute the tones somewhat, it heightens the experience of her work. The overcoat marries all of the painting's elements while at the same time providing a protective coating that elimates the need for glass over the work. Fantastic, since glass glare can be such a barrier to some great works of art. Mary Thomas demonstrates amazing skill and impressive knowledge of her meidas.
Mark Traughber, www.bloodle.com, was another fun artist. While keeping a very urban look to his work, he managed to take me back to the days of my youth is an artful way. Mark takes some iconic images that resonate too so many of us and creates smaller wooden tiles or framed works. Many of the images are simply enjoyable, such as the picture of mowtown idol Aretha Franklin or the orange "Bo and Luke Duke" car. However, like every good artist, Mark's works also make us think. For instance, the Hummer with the word Sale collaged with it, or the baby with the triple X above it. I love that he can make us think about current life from a 4x7 piece of work. Keep it coming Mark...
I have so much more to say... but since we all lead busy lives, I'm going to need to cut off here.
Get down to the fairs and treat yourself to a long stay a the Street Fair www.artfair.org
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