There is a terrific article in the Huffington Post about the joy of "angel investing" in emerging artists. Author Hilary Harkness recommends kick starting your collection by meeting the artists, or visiting them in their studio to create a unique connection to the art. Read : Why You Should Collect Art by Emerging Artists
These little morsels will be making their debut this weekend at the Montclair Art Museum's Affordable Art Fair on Saturday and in the South Orange Maplewood Studio Tour on Sunday. And at under $100 they would be the perfect starter piece for your collection (mini easel included). These are just 4x2", and sit perfectly on your desk - a ready reminder to take a tea break
My personal budding art collection affords little moments of joy every day. When I have my morning tea with Miss Mae by Sarah Petruziello; when I clean my teeth watched by Joy Yagid's beady eyed raptors; or when I get a quirky look from one of Florence Wint's sculptures, I am reminded of the unique personality behind each creation.
Each piece serves as a reminder of a connection I share with its creator - whether it is a sense of humor, a sense of wonder or a sense of whimsy, they each have a resonate quality that reminds me of that shared affinity and bring a smile to the day. Joy and Florence will be at 1978 Gallery with me on Sunday, and visit Sarah in her brand new studio on the tour. (so jealous!)
Saturday June 2, 10-5pm (includes FREE admission to the Museum) Affordable Art Fair Montclair Art Museum 3 South Mountain Ave Montclair, NJ 07042 www.montclair-art.com
*Participating Artists* Luis Alves Collage, Alina Bliach, Jo Bradney, Aric Calfee, Gabrielle D’Angelo, Liz Demaree, Robyn Ellenbogen, Susan Fidlon, Michael Hart, Linda A. Ippolito, Ji Yong Kim, Wendy Letven, Maria Lupo, Cathy Pilkin, Adam Pitt, Christopher Reach, Brandon Rechten, Janice Reis, Christine Sauerteig-Pilaar, Christine Soccio, Lisa Stoeffel, Doreen Tighe, Victoria Tullo, and Julian Weitzenfeld.
Studio Tour : Sunday June 3rd 11-5pm
stop by the Preview show at the Pierro Gallery for a sampling of the work. Or plan and print your self-guided tour on the spiffy new website www.studiotoursoma.org
Artists Studio Tour 1978 Maplewood Arts Center 1978 Springfield Avenue Maplewood, New Jersey www.studiotoursoma.org
Preview/Post View Pierro Gallery Baird Center 5 Mead Street South Orange NJ 07004 www.pierrogallery.org