San Buenaventura Artists' Union and Artists Union Gallery Blog

First Friday Art Talk featuring Donna Lynn Caskey

2010-08-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

First Friday Art Talk at AUG featuring Donna Lynn Caskey
September 3rd 6:30 - 7:00 PM

AU member, Donna Lynn Caskey is a mixed media and performance artist, banjo player, singer, songwriter, poet, and dancer. Donna Lynn will share some performance pieces.

This Art Talk is held in conjunction with Here We Are.. AU members only show
...running though September 12th.

Call to Artists - The Art of the Book 3

2010-08-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

Call to Artists - The Art of the Book 3 exhibit runs from September 18 to October 24
Curator: Inés Monguió

Art Drop Off:
Monday September 13 4:00 -7:00 PM
Tuesday September 14 9:00 AM- Noon
Link to Entry Form

Book art and Artist Books of any form, material or size will be featured, from miniscule to huge. In addition, two-dimensional art with text as an integral part of the piece (not only a graphic element) will also be considered. This year the curator, Inés Monguió, is looking for 2D and/orassemblage work featuring text or representing a story that can be “read” by the viewer.

The Art of the Book exhibit features contemporary, traditional and unusual book art. This includes any three dimensional artwork that uses any book format (from tablets to codex) or a book as the base for the artwork. Two-dimensional artwork should include text as an integral part of its’ composition.

The juror will be Joe Cardella, of Art/Life limited editions. Art/Life was a monthly handmade art and literary journal that was published for 25 years. The journal is in the collections of many museums and collectors internationally. Joe is also an accomplished artist in many forms, including assemblage, sculpture, and photography.

Entries may be mailed, or delivered earlier to the curator. Please contact Inés at monguio@concentric.net for further information.

Artist Exhibit Opportunity-Downtown Ventura-Goodwill Window

2010-08-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

An Open Letter from the Board of Directors

Dear Fellow Members (and potential members) of the Artists’ Union

A fantastic art opportunity has come our way. Goodwill on Main (formerly the ground floor of Nicholby’s) has offered two Main Street windows as display areas for art by members of the Artists’ Union. The manager of the store visited the gallery during our “Gimme Shelter” exhibit. He was moved, and then inspired to incorporate art into his window displays.

Would you like to have your artwork displayed in large attractive windows fronting Main Street? If so, read on—the Gallery Committee has developed the following guidelines for selection of artists’ work:

1. All artists displayed must be members of the Artists’ Union. Selected artists should be members in good standing who’ve demonstrated their willingness to work in an artists’ cooperative by fulfilling a regular volunteer commitment—such as curating exhibits, gallery sitting, serving on committees, etc.

2. No theme is suggested, but artists should be cognizant of Goodwill as a business and its ongoing needs. Art will be juried in by the Gallery Committee.

3. Participating artists should have proof of insurance or sign a waiver releasing
Goodwill from theft or damage.

4. All art will be available for sale, the Artists’ Union will take its normal 25% commission of which 5% will be passed on to Goodwill as a processing fee.

5. The art will be up four to six weeks. Artists must be willing to promptly retrieve artwork.

6. To submit work send jpegs (for the art you’d like to exhibit) Please include description and dimensions of the piece(s). You can also send window proposals. These are the same as our gallery/exhibit proposals.

We are pleased to be able to offer this as a benefit to our working members. If you are interested, please contact the gallery committee at info@venturaartistsunion.org

Finally, we are grateful to each and every member who volunteers above the minimum level of commitment in order to keep our doors open and our unique artistic gifts available to the community.

We would especially like to thank our Gallery Host Coordinators, Barbara Turner and Alyssa Barber, who work long hours and regularly go above and beyond the call of duty to keep the gallery staffed and open. We hope to hear from many of you soon.

Thank you,
The Board of Directors of the San Buenaventura Artists’ Union

First Friday Art Talks at the Artists' Union Gallery featuring Michele Foster

2010-06-20T10:03:00.000-07:00

First Friday Art Talks at the Artists' Union Gallery
July 2, 2010 at 6:30 PM

Michele Foster is the director and lead teacher of the Bell Arts Factory Youth Arts Program.

This program is held in conjunction with the current gallery show: In Your Face–an Exhibit of Self-Portraits running through August 1, 2010. As part of the exhibit, self-portraits created by children in the Bell Arts Youth Arts Program will be on display in the Gallery.

Brief Bio:
Michele Foster has been an artist since childhood. She has always enjoyed expressing herself through her art and was one of the founding artists at Santa Barbara Ceramic Design. She works in clay, mosaics, airbrush, paint, computer graphics, and mixed media. Michele is also a passionate domestic violence activist in the community and has incorporated her art to use as a healing tool. Recently, she has become the director and visionary for the non-profit ARTestia, which holds art workshops in the community. Michele is a member of the Working Artists Ventura (WAV) community.

In Your Face–an Exhibit of Self Portraits
June 19-August 1, 2010
Juror: Beverly Decker
Curators: Jeanne LaRocco & elle-je’ freeheart

First Friday Art Talk with Sylvia Raz

2010-06-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

First Friday Art Talk with Sylvia Raz
Friday, June 4 -6:30 PM

Sylvia will speak to her art, as it relates to Politics and Feminism

Ojai artist Sylvia Raz left Montevideo in 1963 to live for 11 years in Jerusalem. She studied art at Betzalel Institute and UCLA. Her work evolves around the figure and human passion, striving to capture the sublime and dramatic aspects of life. Sylvia works is clay, stone, assemblage using found objects, knitting, bronze, it all comes together to imply an intimate relationship with life and a feminist point of view, compatible with the humor and lightness of heart she wants to express.

This event is in conjunction with the Ventura First Fridays Gallery Walk Event
and as part of the Gallery’s exhibition "Gimmie Shelter".

Getting to Know Your Fellow Artists - Q & A Interviews with AU Members

2010-05-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

Get to Know your Fellow Artists from your Membership Committee

Q & A Interviews with...........

Donna Lynn Caskey
Karen Helen Szatkowski

*******************************
Donna Lynn Caskey

1. What town do you live in? How long have you lived here?
Ventura. Going on 8 years.

2. Where are you from originally?
Southeast Virginia.

3. What’s your background?
Not quite sure what you are looking for with this question...

I am the youngest of ten children in a family of bright, talented people. I am grateful I was encouraged and allowed to explore the arts growing up. At the same time, I was cautioned and questioned about the need to "make a living." I am still making up what I want to be when I grow up as I go along.
I opted to attend a liberal arts college instead of art school because I am passionate about learning in general, though a significant portion of my tuition was funded by art scholarships, for which I am thankful. I received a degree in studio art, but also studied writing, dance, physics, music, biology, psychology, Spanish, sociology and more. I took part in a wonderful program called the Imagination Studies Colloquium-- exploring creative process and imagination in all arenas.
After college, I traveled & couch-surfed & worked a string of "artistic retail" jobs-- as a portrait photographer, in a pottery studio, at a scrapbook store. I worked in libraries & bookstores. I was an intern at a drug & alcohol rehab home, a volunteer at a home for ill and orphaned children in Peru. I attended the Mythological Studies program at Pacifica Graduate Institute (the "bait" that lured me to CA), but withdrew the first semester declaring the creative process of life my school and major. I've worked in social services for nearly 7 years, from clerical staff to social worker.
Amid all that, I learned to play 5 string banjo and began writing songs-- nothing short of a life-changing miracle, in my opinion. Visual art continues to be a vital part of my life, as well.
If that is not already way too much information, there's more at www.donnalynncaskey.com

4. What kind of work do you do?
I have always loved to play and to explore the arts in general-- visual, movement, performance, writing, music, etc. I will be sharing music as part of Roe's "Tuesday Night Poets" series at the gallery on 5/11. Life is a creative process, an art, an interesting experiment. As mentioned above, I am employed as a social worker...

5. What do you draw upon for inspiration in your work?
Anything & everything-- life, emotion, people, connections, symbols, curiosity, that which I call God & don't pretend to understand, the creative force and process in general...

6. What’s your preferred medium?
Whatever is on hand, whether a traditional "art supply" or not. I am enjoying incorporating reused & recycled materials into visual art. I also prefer to use non-toxic supplies as much as possible.

7. How do you see your work evolving?
My work continues to surprise me while simultaneously being connected to what came before.

8. What social issues are you interested in?
The promotion of peace, understanding, love, compassion, dignity, justice... & the infinite permutations that takes!

9. What kinds of activities are you interested in supporting at the AUG?
Exhibits, performances, gallery talks... schedule permitting.

10. What would you like to see the gallery participate in?
More music/ performances from time to time.

******************************

Karen Helen Szatkowski

1. What town do you live in? How long have you lived here?
I moved to Ventura with family in 1979 from L.A. (via Oregon)

2. Where are you from originally?
Eagle Rock, Los Angeles County

3. What’s your background?
CSUN Graduate in English, Insurance Broker specializing in Fidelity and Surety Bonds since 1992. Insurance Industry background since 1968.

4. What kind of work do you do?
I own S&K Bonds and Insurance Agency in Ventura since 1992. Right now struggling to rise above the muck of the economy.

5. What do you draw upon for inspiration in your work?
Since my youth I have been fascinated with the vegetable world and have been playing in dirt since I can remember. Inspiration is all around me!

6. What’s your preferred medium?
Dirt and an interesting Succulent.

7. How do you see your work evolving?
I am a novice at presenting my work to the world so envisioning the future of it is not easy. However, I do see some larger opportunities than originally imagined.

8. What social issues are you interested in?
All of them! I am a raving Liberal after being brought to my knees by the heartache of war and the many other horrors of the Bush Administration. I worked very hard for Obama and was thrilled beyond description at his win but I do worry that his first year, with his majorities, has not been stellar. I keep looking for his BEST efforts.

9. What kinds of activities are you interested in supporting at the AUG?
This will be easier to answer after more time with the organization and more knowledge of its capabilities.

10. What would you like to see the gallery participate in?
Everything seems on track to me, but again, I am a newbie!

************************************

Member Mark Rubin Featured in News Story

2010-05-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

Artist's Union Member. Mark Rubin, is fetured in an online article

Electronics Exec Goes From Speakers to Sculptures

At the tender age of 54, Mark Rubin, president of Long Island, New York-based Shogyo International Corporation, up and quit.

“You reach a certain point when you realize you only have a certain number of years on this planet,” Rubin says. “I told my wife that I had never been happy doing what I was doing and she said, ‘I know.’ ”

They had a long talk and decided to take the plunge. That meant relocating clear across the country, where Rubin could pursue his dream of being a full-time artist.

“At one time I sold jacks, plugs, speakers, and cables -- hundreds of thousands of them at a time,” Rubin recalls. Now, Rubin is selling things like Barky the Barkpecker. Since 2004, Rubin and his wife, Nina, have been living in Ventura, California, where he creates sculptures and wall hangings out of found pieces of tree bark. ....

Link to full story

Getting to Know Your Fellow Artists - Q & A Interviews with AU Members

2010-05-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

Get to Know your Fellow Artists from your Membership Committee

Q & A Interviews with...........

Raymond Harris
Friday Lubina
Roe Estep

**********************
Raymond Harris

1. What town do you live in? How long have you lived here?
I moved to Ventura last September from La Canada Flintridge during the fires.

2. Where are you from originally?
I moved with my family to six different states growing up. I have lived In Southern California since 1970.

3. What’s your background?
I graduated with a Communication Design degree from the Art Center College of Design In Pasadena, California. I worked as a artist at Walt Disney for 23 years. I love to draw and paint.

4. What kind of work do you do?
I have worked In the film Industry as an artist since 1978. My drawings and paintings are an extension of the skills I use In Hollywood. I think of myself as a humble designer.

5. What do you draw upon for inspiration in your work?
I am always searching for good design and color In my work. I switch mediums and subjects often to stay excited. I am a plein air painter for that reason.

6. What’s your preferred medium?
I sketch daily with oils. I love to draw on the computer and also throw pottery on the wheel. My preferred medium Is black mountain clay.

7. How do you see your work evolving?
It seems to me It Is slowly changing. I suppose the choices I make are more Informed.

8. What social issues are you interested in?
Education Is my main concern. Good Design should be a part of everyday life.

9. What kinds of activities are you interested in supporting at the
AUG?
I would support lectures and demos by the membership.

****************************************
Friday Lubina

1. What town do you live in? Ventura
How long have you lived here? 20 years
2. Where are you from? Ventura County

4. What kind of work do you do?
I am a Board Member for the Ventura Film Society. I am assistant editor of ASKEW Poetry Journal. I volunteer at the Ventura County Humane Society and Ojai’s Raptor Rehabilitation Center. I host poetry the last Saturday of every month at the Bell Arts Factory’s, “Friday on Saturday” series.

5. What do you draw upon for inspiration in your work?
My muse is found in food, sex, relationships and general observations.

6. What’s your preferred medium?
The English language and words I create on occasion.

7. How do you see your work evolving?
S L O W I N G D O W N

8. What social issues are you interested in?
Gay rights & Freedom from Religion

9. What kinds of activities are you interested in supporting at the AUG?
Any and all

10. What would you like to see the gallery participate in?
I like the discussion/Q&A with the artists. I enjoyed the Convergence of Stone film created by Phil Taggart and the Q&A session that followed. I understand this is to happen more regularly. THUMBS UP!

**********************************

Roe Estep

1. What town do you live in? How long have you lived here?
Ventura, 15yrs

2. Where are you from originally?
Boston, Massachusetts

3. What’s your background?
high school degree, AA from Ventura College

4. What kind of work do you do?
Hair Stylist, poet, musician, artist

5. What do you draw upon for inspiration in your work?
nature/life

6. What’s your preferred medium?
clay/wood

7. How do you see your work evolving?
as I evolve so does my work

8. What social issues are you interested in?
elder care

9. What kinds of activities are you interested in supporting at the AUG?
gallery hosting

10. What would you like to see the gallery participate in?
Anything to do with art/poetry for all ages

***********************

First Friday Art Talk - May 7th

2010-04-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

First Friday Art Talk -- May 7th

featuring Gauvin, Perfomance Poet..

Starts at 6:30 PM

Call to Artists - Gimme Shelter

2010-04-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

Call to Artists -- Gimme Shelter An Open/Juried Exhibit

Jurors: Gauvin
Curator: Phil Taggart
Art Drop Off: Monday May 3rd, 4-7 pm and Tuesday May 4th, 9am - Noon
Link to Entry Form

The show explores all forms of marginalization whether in self, family or society. The creative impulse has often been used in the face of madness, despair and chaos, to make sense of it, to make sense through art. Creativity is idealized while mental illness is demonized, yet the same energy can fuel either. This show is an exploration of extreme states of being in the world.

Show Dates: May 8th thru June 13th
Opening Reception: Saturday, May 8th 6pm to 8pm

First Friday Artist Talk Series- Paul Lindhard & Phil Taggart

2010-03-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

First Friday Artists' Talk Series will present Phil Taggart's film "A Stone Convergence" showing the construction of two medieval stone ramparts at Grant Park Cross above downtown Ventura. A group of stonemasons, including Paul Lindhard, joined two 14th and 15th generation Japanese Master Stonemasons, all donating thei...r talents, completing this project in ten days. These ramparts will stand for centuries. Both Paul and Phil will talk about their work after showing the film.

More Information:
The Rocknockers are coming Ventura County Star By Marie Lakinon December 13, 2009

Artist Calls--Upcoming Open/Juried Shows

2010-03-01T17:36:00.000-08:00

Artist Calls--Upcoming Open/Juried Shows through July 2010

Earth Show - Open/Juried Exhibit
Jurors: The Green Art People
March 27-May 2, 2010
Art drop-off days: 3/22 and 3/23
This show challenges artists to re-imagine our relationship to nature, whether macro or micro, social or political, within ...or without. The Earth Show is a multi-media look at human nature and the wild.
Link to Entry Form

Gimme Shelter - Open/Juried Show
Curator: Phil Taggart
May 8-June 13, 2010
Art drop-off days: 5/3 and 5/4
This multi-media show explores the notion of home and its opposite—homelessness, through the lens of our ever-growing homeless population, particularly in the light of Ventura County’s 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness.

In Your Face:an Exhibit of Self-Portraits - Open/Juried Show
Curators: Jeanne LaRocco & elle-je' freeheart
June 19-August 1, 2010
Art drop-off days: 6/14 and 6/15
Self portraits are a way for artists to examine their personal lives and inner psyches. Our personal lives and inner conversations are fertile ground for developing ideas and imagery of universal concern.
Self portraits in any genre, medium, or style are invited. We want to encourage artists to push boundaries and have fun with this topic. This exhibit coincides with birthdays of two famous self-portrait artists: Frida Kahlo (July 6) and Rembrandt van Rijn (July 15).

“Wet” Erotic Poetry Reading

2010-02-28T16:41:00.000-08:00

WET!’ Erotic Poetry Reading Saturday, March 6th at 7pm

Always a full house, this popular companion event raises funds to benefit the Artists Union Gallery.
Well worth the admission: $10 -$20
Hosted by Friday and Marsha de la O •

Desire urges us on deeper
and farther into the coral maze
of the body, dense, tropical
where we cannot tell plant
from animal, mind from body,
prey from predator, swaying
magenta, teal, green-golden
anemones wide open…- from “Wet” by Marge Piercy

Readers:
Holaday Mason, Tree Bernstein, Carol Davis, Virginia Mariposa, Cathryn Andresen, Maggie Westland, Joyce LaMers, TL Cabrera, Chryss Yost, Gabriel LeMay, Patti Sullivan, Doris Vernon, Trish Falin, Ron Alexander, Polly Bee, Kevin Patrick Sullivan, Paul Guthrie,Lois Klein, Elijah Imlay, Shelley Savren, Carol DeCanio, John White, Mariano Zaro, Stephany Prominides, Roe Estep, Patricia Belkowitz, Tim Tipton, John Gentry, Ellen, Florence Weinberger, Jackson Wheeler, Elena Karina Byrne, Morgan Alexander, Kevin Carman

Wet Eighth Annual Sensual & Erotic Exhibit

2010-02-09T12:56:00.000-08:00

One of our most popular contemporary exhibits. A multi-media look at the sensual and erotic, distilled through the muse onto the many enticing visual palates of the arts community.

February 13th, through March 21st, 2010
Opening Night Reception: Saturday, Feb. 13th, 6 to 8pm
Curators: Phil Taggart & MB Hanrahan
Jurors: Robert Catalusci and Paul Lindhard

Poetry Fundraiser: ‘WET!’ Saturday, March 6th at 7pm
Always a full house, this popular companion event raises funds to benefit the ARTISTS’ UNION GALLERY. Well worth the price of submission!
Hosted by Friday and Marsha de la O • Admission: $10 -$20
First Friday Gallery walk: Friday, March 5th, 6-9pm

Desire urges us on deeper
and farther into the coral maze
of the body, dense, tropical
where we cannot tell plant
from animal, mind from body,
prey from predator, swaying
magenta, teal, green-golden
anemones wide open…
- from “Wet” by Marge Piercy

2010 Annual Membership Meeting & Potluck - New Date

2010-01-18T07:43:00.000-08:00

2010 Annual Membership Meeting & Potluck
January 28 6:00-8:00 PM

Join or Renew your membership for 2010.

Some of the many benefits of being a member includes the interaction with other local artists; showing your work in the Artists' Union Gallery; voting on how art is developed in the community.

Click here for the 2010 Membership Application

Full Throttle/Wide-Open Member's Exhibit

2010-01-01T09:42:00.000-08:00

Full Throttle/Wide-Open Member's Exhibit
January 9th to February 7th
Opening Reception January 9th • 6 to 8 pm

This members’ exhibit always offers a wide range of contemporary work......
Our key emphasis this year is on the unique spark of creative energy each artist carries within. So fire up your engines and join us in a high octane celebration of our eclectic collective!

Poetry every Tuesday evening at 7:30 pm......Open mic hosted by Roe Estep ~ 320-3524

Artists' Union Gallery Hours
Thursday & Sunday ~ noon to 6 p.m.
Friday & Saturday ~ noon to 8 p.m.
330 South California Street, Ventura 93001
phone: (805) 643-3012
www.venturaartistsunion.org

What's New: Interviews with New Artist Union Members of 2009.

2009-11-30T17:20:00.000-08:00

What’s New:Interviews with New Artist Union Members of 2009
from Lynn LeTourneau, AU Membership Chair

Julie Andrada – recently completed the MFA program at Brooks Institute. She is a professional photographer who serves people finding partners. She enjoys travel photography as well. Julie showed her artwork in the Member’s Show. Julie gallery sits and hopes to participate more in showing her work in 2010.

Briana Bainbridge – works in several media. Her oil paintings are inspired by anatomy and religious iconography. Her photography incorporates dolls and dollhouses as a vehicle to express her views on gender roles. Brianna is also a furniture maker. You can find her online at www.brianabainbridge.com.

Llana Baldwin – has a degree in Fine Arts. She was attracted to join the Artists Union Gallery because it is non-profit and involves member participation. In 2009 she showed her artwork in the Member’s Show. Llana recently won a Blue ribbon at the LA County Fair for a drawing. She also won an award in 2008 at the Harbor Gallery for their Ornament Show.

Roe Estep – is a hair-dresser by trade and enjoys taking art classes at Ventura College. Roe enjoys working in clay. Using slab-work techniques, she has completed a birdbath series. She is also a poet attending and facilitating the Tuesday night poetry readings at the Artist Union. In 2010 Roe hopes to show her artwork in the Gallery.

Bobbi Jo Free – is a dollmaker and fiber artist working out of a studio in Bell Arts. She paints using acrylic and collage in the impressionistic style as well. In 2009, she was in the Black and White show. Bobbi Jo is a gallery sitter.

Susan Guy – is a plein air artist who works in oil and watercolor.
She is an Ojai Studio Artist and has been juried for two years at the Ojai Valley Museum “Made in Ojai” Show. Her work is in the permanent collection at the Ojai Land Conservancy and the Ventura County Medical Center. Susan is also part of the Studio Channel Islands and was in the Cal State Channel Islands Show. She extends her invitation to other plein air painters!

Debra Kelley – is a member of the Arts and Crafts wing of Artist Union and sits the gallery two times a month. She creates mobiles using fishing line, sea-shells, bamboo and driftwood.

Contact Lynn LeTourneau if you would like to be featured in our next set of brief interviews.

Artful Aging October 31 - November 29

2009-11-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

The Art of Aging: Celebrating the Authentic Aging Self --video

Our Fall/Winter show is a multi-media show about aging and the art of aging. In the U.S., 10,000 people a day turn 60. This show addresses aging and all aspects of aging. From the physical, spiritual, the sensual to our relationships, the show looks at age through fear and joy in hopes to harvest the experience of aging.

Richard and Alice Matzkin will jury the show. They have recently published a book about their artistic journey confronting the fear and curiosity of growing old, The Art of Aging. You can visit their website at www.matzkinstudio.com

Opening Reception: Saturday, October 31st 6 to 9pm

Politics of Green - August 7 - September 13, 2009

2009-07-31T07:34:00.000-07:00

Politics of Green - Call to Artists
Open Juried Show
All things green (politically, ecologically, financially, holistically…) have come to a head, a crossroads, a climax of differing viewpoints and interests. As artists and citizens, it is our decision to confront and question the issues that affect our lives and society, especially in an ever more globalized world culture. The politics of green challenges us to address any of these issues in any medium, including video, installation and performance.

Entry Form
Art Drop off:
Monday, August 3rd, 4 to 7pm and Tuesday, August 4th, 9am to 12 noon
If you are considering an installation please contact a.s.a.p.: Paul Lindhard or Rude Calderon at 805-653-6380 or email artcity@artcitystudios.com

Opening Reception: Saturday, August 8th 6 to 9 pm
Soft Opening: Saturday, September 12th 7 pm

Artists Union Gallery on Facebook

2009-07-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

Join the Artists Union on Facebook. Become a Fan and you can post news and announcements, add photos, videos, have discussions, and more.

Ventura Artists Union & Gallery on Facebook.

Hope to see you there!

Open Letter to Members from AU Board of Directors

2009-06-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

June 28, 2009
Dear Fellow Artists of the Artists’ Union,

One of our goals as a Board is to keep in touch with our members and volunteers. For the immediate future, the Board has divided up the duties of the directorship, and we’re each filling some part of the position on a volunteer basis. The calendar is up on the website,[and this blog] the rest of 2009 is filled in, our organization is working well.

In the positive energy category, the Board is considering the idea of scheduling a second event for each show besides the reception. Some possible examples are: an artists’ salon, an art talk, a small party/happening, music night, poetry night, films on the wall. Can you think of more? We’d love to energize our gallery with free or low-cost events. The best way to get through hard times is by having a good time!

Now is the time to express our immense gratitude to the chairpersons of the committees that keep our gallery doors open. Kudos to our Gallery Host Coordinators, Barbara Turner and Alyssa Barber who work long hours to do just that —keep the gallery staffed and open. Not only are they essential, they’re also terrific!

Patty Van Dyke and her team of reception hosts keep the party going. Each reception is more creative than the last. A huge thank-you to our party-meisters!

Ramon Byrne and his construction committee keep the gallery sanded, spackled, painted, and lit. They also do all the other behind-the-scenes work that we often don’t realize has taken place. They’re indispensable, and we’re ever grateful.

John Parker has agreed to be our Media Director. He gets the word out in a professional, polished way.

Laurie Pegg-Scott, Dona Wieckowski and the art drop-off team keep the exhibits running smoothly, every five weeks. They make it a warm, friendly experience for all of us.

The Gallery Committee headed by Phil Taggart meets regularly and comes up with timely contemporary exhibits that fulfill our mission statement. Don’t forget that anyone can make a proposal for a show on a particular theme or in a unique medium—the form is on the website. Do you have an idea for an exhibit you’d like to bring into being? Don’t delay, just do it!

Lynn LeTourneau, our Membership Coordinator, has plans in the works to schedule more regular membership meetings and potlucks to bring us together for good times and group planning. The Board is so grateful for her presence, and eagerly awaiting the unfolding of her plans.

And finally, we are grateful to each and every member for your unique gifts that you share with our artistic community and the larger community. We’d love to get your ideas and expertise for next steps. See you at the next reception.

Thank you,
The Board of Directors of the San Buenaventura Artists’ Union

P.S. Please take a look up at the new awning painted by artist elle-je freeheart! The artists in the next dimension immediately above us are having a raging good time! Inspiration? You bet!

"And So Far" Members Exhibit - June 20 - August 2

2009-06-22T09:14:00.001-07:00

An artist’s journey has stopping points—pauses for reflection— ‘And So Far…’ looks at where we are, individually and collectively on our journey.

See a Video of this Exhibit

This exhibit of works by Artists Union Members runs through August 2nd

May 9th Exhibit Opening on Video

2009-05-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

Click here to view the video: Raz Raz Raz 2 & Women Growing Wings

Raz Raz Raz 2 & Women Growing Wings is an exhibit that runs from May 9 through June 14 at The Artists Union Gallery in Ventura.

Raz Raz Raz 2 features works by the Raz family, Sylvia, Alan and Karyn

Women Growing Wings in the upstairs gallery was jurored by Patti Post and Jill Sattler and was curated by Laurie Pegg-Scott.

Exhibit Associated Upcoming Events:

Saturday May 23 at 7pm “Women with Wings” Poetry Reading
hosted by Marsha de la O
Featuring: Joyce Lombard, Polly Bee, Enid Osborn, Mary Scott, Christina Paiges, Ellen, Doris Vernon, Tree Bernstein, Roe Estep, Shelley Savren, Judy Oberlander, Luzma, Friday, Cathryn Andreson, Maggie Westland, Glenna Luschei, Nereyda de la O, Elnora McNaughton…

Saturday May 30th, Joan Peters, professor of literature at Channel Islands University and author of two women’s books: When Mothers Work and Not Your Mother’s Life. She will discuss her books and how women are affected by the issues in her books.

submitted by Phil Taggart

RAZ RAZ RAZ 2 ~ Mother of all Shows

2009-05-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

RAZ RAZ RAZ 2

Mother of all Shows

Downstairs Gallery
Show Dates: May 9 to June 14
Opening Reception:Saturday, May 9th 6 to 9 pm

Exhibition ~ Women Growing Wings ~ Hope is the thing with feathers

2009-04-30T14:44:00.001-07:00

Women Growing Wings ~ Open/Juried show May 9th – June 14th – AUG Upstairs Gallery

There's a river of birds in migration,
A nation of women with wings.

An exhibit of women artists coming together to tell their stories.
Jurors are Santa Barbara artists Patti Post and Jill Sattler
Curator:Laurie Pegg-Scott

Saturday May 23 at 7pm “Women with Wings” Poetry Reading hosted by Marsha de la O
Featuring: Joyce Lombard, Polly Bee, Enid Osborn, Mary Scott, Christina Paiges, Ellen, Doris Vernon, Tree Bernstein, Roe Estep, Shelley Savren, Judy Oberlander, Luzma, Friday, Cathryn Andreson, Maggie Westland, Glenna Luschei, Nereyda de la O, Elnora McNaughton…

Women Growing Wings Entry Form: For an entry form Click Here.

April 30 - Spring 2009 Membership Meeting

2009-04-30T14:43:00.001-07:00

Spring 2009 Membership Meeting!

You and a guest are invited! THURSDAY, April 30th, 7-8PM
At AUG! (the Artists' Union Gallery)

Come and meet: Artist members! Non-Artist members! The Arts & Crafts members! The Board of Directors! (Did you know we even have a Board of Directors?) The various Committee Chairpeople! And the many folks that insure your gallery is well maintained and open to the public!

At the start of the meeting we will have a short Meet & Greet segment, then there will be a brief time dedicated to personally chatting with the Committee Chairpeople that are the leaders of the operations of this organization. We will finish off with a purely social ending that could possibly last longer than 8PM! Wouldn't that be fun?!

YOUR MEMBERSHIP and SERVICE insures the stability of this beach side gallery location and the organization as a whole.

Come this Thursday! Have a beverage and a nosh (i.e. a snack). Bond!
...because this IS your gallery and nonprofit arts organization!

I'll see you then!

Terry Bray
AUG - Director

MB Universe - CNN Headline News - Artist Interview

2009-04-30T14:37:00.001-07:00

MB Universe , is a story about longtime AUG member and artist MB Hanrahan,
and aired on CNN Headline News.

You can view the segment by clicking here

Provided by
Phil Taggart
Producer, SoCal News on CNN Headline News
phil.taggart@twcable.com
www.twcsocalnews.com

The Vampire Who Makes Us Behave -- Erotic Poetry Reading

2009-02-19T14:04:00.000-08:00

Annual Erotic Poetry Reading and Benefit
Saturday, Feb. 21 at 7:00 pm

The Vampire Who Makes Us Behave
…But the Vampire who makes us behave orders us to enjoy ourselves with what she leaves us, or in other words to be more amusing… - Arthur Rimbaud "Anguish"

Admission is $10 - $20 at the door.
Hosts: Friday and Marsha de la O
Benefit with all proceeds going to the Artists’ Union Gallery.

See Lusty ambitions Erotic art and poetry in Ventura by Michael Cicero in VC Reporter for more...

Poets reading include: Chryss Yost, Glenna Luschei, Perie Longo, Tim Tipton, Sarah Maclay, Holaday Mason, Roe Estep, Shelley Savren, Lois Klein, Fiona Spring, Elijah Imlay, Carol Davis, Ellen Reich, Florence Weinberger, Doris Vernon, Virginia Mariposa, Laura Diamond, Mary Kay Rummel, Polly Bee, Tree Bernstein, Paul Guthrie, Maggie Westland, Cathryn Andreson, Patricia Lynn Belkowitz, Marsha de la O, Friday, Phil Taggart, Tim Sheehan, Joyce LaMers, Virginia Mariposa, Kevin Patrick Sullivan, TL Cabrera

AUG's Seventh Annual Erotic Exhibit

2009-02-11T08:07:00.000-08:00

Some Like It Hot
AUG's Annual Sensual and Erotic Exhibit is a perennial favorite and a striking example of Ventura’s talent runs February 13th through March 22nd, 2009

Gala Opening and Reception:
Friday, February 13th, 6-9 pm.

Juror: Wayne Healy
Curators: Phil Taggart & MB Hanrahan

Be sure to experience this show in the flesh!

The Vampire Who Makes Us Behave
Annual Erotic Poetry Reading & Fund Raiser to benefit Artists’ Union Gallery.
Saturday February 21st at 7p.m. $10-20 donation.

Credits:
photo: Linda F. Peterson Photography
graphics: John Parker

Poerty inspired by the Inauguration of Barack Obama

2009-01-20T15:48:00.000-08:00

Colleen Cason from the Ventura County Star wrote an article about poetry and the inauguration. She interviewed Joyce LaMers and Phil Taggart. She included part of our Obama poems and an excerpt from a Ferlinghetti poem. She also invited folks to put their inauguration poems and comments in the comment blog spot.

Link to the Story: Cason Point: Inauguration gives reasons for rhymes

Video of Phil Taggart reading his poem

Provided by Phil Taggart

Open Letter from Terry Bray, Gallery Director

2009-01-16T11:26:00.000-08:00

Hello to one and all!

The SBAU 2009 Membership drive has got off to a nice start. We have some new members that are full of enthusiam and willingness to dig in and support where needed. Additional, we have a good amount of renewing members that are waiting to be of service! The offering of the option to serve on a committee vs. just being a gallery sitter was appreciated by many people. We again have a well diversified group of new and renewing members and I believe in the near future we will achieve the membership participation needed to keep our receptions and shows at top quality performance.

I will be formulating the new 2009 'flow chart' that will reflect the 2009 committee members and their respective Chairperson. It is my intention to have a "Committee Gathering" in the near future, at the gallery, to give everyone the opportunity to get acquainted with one another and simultaneously enhance the understanding of how these committees are inter reliant to one another. I will contact these 'service' members soon regarding the date and time of this "gathering". But hey! if you are a member (or considering membership) and has not yet chosen a service commitment, come and join us at this 'gathering'! Let me know of your interest so I can include you in on the update(s).

I have met so many wonderful people and have learned that most of you have been active with SBAU for years. I know that everyone is used to going directly to Dona for your inquires and needs. As you now direct your energy towards me I will be as responsive and proactive as I possibly to satisfy your concerns. Dona will remain with SBAUG and continue to be your Treasurer. She will be a visible and important participant to the preservation of this organization. She has been a HUGE part of the formulation, evolution and thrust of your organization. I continue to be amazed at how much she has accomplished through her many dedicated years of 'service' to SBAU and I appreciate her future availability to me as an important resource. I know that Dona is looking forward to finally having the time (and energy) to pursue her artistic interests, especially in the area of photography. She has had in her possession some nice, new equipment that, up until recently, she has not had the chance to become familiar with. I am sure she is excited to now be able to release her creative juices and produce some wonderful art. Maybe a solo SBAUG show in the near future? SBAU is here for you Dona!

I encourage you to contact me with any suggestions and innovative ideas or just to say "HI! How ya do'n?". I embrace new ideas and different perspectives and treat them as a learning opportunity that possibly would assist in achieving more productivity or a more enjoyable experience to being a member. I prefer you to contact me via e-mail. Your e-mail should be through the SBAU website, info@venturaartistsunion.org.

As your Director I will do my best to be available and as responsive to you as time and experience allows. My intent is to keep you informed of the business of your gallery. Your membership, and service, are essential to the success and longevity of SBAU. This is a nonprofit, membership supported, arts organization that is truly unique to the arts community. Its up to the entire membership to keep the gallery doors open and the events successful.

Ask not what your gallery can do for you?...ask what can you do to support your gallery!

I look forward to serving you.

Thank you.

Terry Bray
Director
SBAUG

Ch-Ch-Changes -- January 10 - February 8, 2009

2009-01-08T11:00:00.000-08:00

This ‘members’ exhibit always offers an exciting range of contemporary work. Looking to 2009, Artists’ Union Gallery embraces “Change”, a relevant theme at this moment in time. Bring your friends and join us in the new year for an outstanding array of artwork, as our talented membership invites you to “turn and face the changes...”.

Show Dates:
January 10th through February 8th, 2009

Opening Night Reception:
Saturday, January 10th, 5-8 pm
Open to the Public

Lucky & Ventura Artists' Fellowship Showcase - May 3-June 8

2008-05-08T07:29:00.000-07:00

City of Ventura Artists’ Fellowship Showcase
Main Gallery

An exhibit to honor all 2007/08 grant recipients which includes Brad Barron, Alison Casson, Zivana Gojanovic, Donna Granata, Hilda Kilpatrick, Jeanne LaRocco, Paul Lindhard, Amy Maloney, Teal Rowe, Stephen Schafer, Ralph Silerio & Larissa Strauss. Congratulation from your sponsors, the San Buenaventura Artists’ Union Gallery.

Lucky
Upstairs Gallery

This is an open theme exhibit created especially for our members. This is always a very eclectic exhibit and a special feature of this competition will be the lucky juried group chosen to compete for awards and prize money.

Opening Reception: Saturday, May 17th, 6pm to 9pm, Awards at 7pm
Curator: Paul Lindhard
Juror: Michael Kelly

Poetry Benefit for Turning Point Foundation-- Saturday April 12th

2008-04-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

Group poetry reading to benefit Turning Point Foundation Saturday 4/12 7pm
$10.00 Donation

Poets included: Doris Vernon, Mifanwy Kaiser and friends, Enid Osborn, Gauvin, John Gentry, Mary Kay Rummel, Grant Marcus, Shelley Savren, Elijah Imlay, Bill Mohr, Diane Blackburn, Jackson Wheeler, Neal Andrews

Hosted by: Marsha de la O and Phil Taggart

The reading is a part of :
From the Margins Exhibit
Curated by Phil and Marsha
March 22 to April 27

The show explores all forms of marginalization whether in self, family or society. The creative impulse has often been used in the face of madness, despair and chaos, to make sense of it, to make sense through art. Creativity is idealized while mental illness is demonized, yet the same energy can fuel either. This show is an exploration of extreme states of being in the world

Rick Sings
Poems, video and photos by Phil Taggart
Upstairs Gallery
March 22 – April 27

About twenty-five years ago my mentally ill brother showed up on my doorstep and has lived within a few blocks of me in Ventura’s Avenue neighborhood ever since.
As a writer I wrote about him, first unconsciously then consciously. Some years back, I started pulling all the work together into something I called “The Rick Poems”. In the last few years I started photographing him also. I then started melding the two visions together. I also photographed homeless folks as they are a part of Rick’s everyday world and subsequently part of mine.
This exhibit is an attempt to humanize a marginalized man and all marginalized humans. Turning Point Foundation was established in 1988 and is governed by a board of directors drawn from the Ventura County community. Serving more than 500 clients each year through its shelter, supported housing and rehabilitation programs, Turning Point is the only non-profit agency in Ventura county that addresses the critical community support needs of mentally ill adults.

Turning Point Foundation
www.turningpointfoundation.org
River Haven is home to a group of previously homeless county residents. They have created a self-sustaining tent community where their basic needs can be met in a stable, sanitary environment free of violence, drugs and alcohol until they are able to access housing. As the official sponsor of this group, Turning Point provides administrative and supportive services to ensure the ongoing success of this unique project. River haven is run by Turning Point.
Turning Point Foundation was established in 1988 and is governed by a board of directors drawn from the Ventura County community. Serving more than 500 clients each year through its shelter, supported housing and rehabilitation programs, Turning Point is the only non-profit agency in Ventura county that addresses the critical community support needs of mentally ill adults.

Ventura County Star on the "Rick Sings" Exhibit

2008-04-05T08:09:00.000-07:00

The Art of Rick

Link to Story in the VC Star The Art of Rick

Alicia Doyle of the Ventura County Star writes a poignant article about Rick and Phil Taggart and the Rick Sings Exhibit.

"Rick Sings" is an exhibit in the Upstairs Gallery at the Artists Union The collection of poems, photographs, and video by Phil Taggart reflect the life of his brother, who is schizophrenic and has been homeless.

In the Downstairs Gallery, "From the Margins" examines marginalization and extreme states of being in which artists within the community responded to the theme in a variety of forms.

From the Margins and Rick Sings Exhibits will be open until April 27th.

On April 10th, Phil Taggart and Marsha de la O will host a panel discussion on homelessness and a Poetry Fundraiser for Turning Point on April 12th.

This is a powerful exhibit not to be missed!

Art City on CNN

2008-04-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

Phil Taggart as news man extraordinaire with a video news story on Art City.
Art City in the News

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the background of Art City's building code problems (there may be a few), here is a link to an earlier piece from the Ventura County Star on October 1, 2007.
Art Loving City in a Tight Spot

Fandango Americana - Art City Fundraiser

2008-02-06T14:37:00.001-08:00

The Fandango Americana is an event of shared music and performance that brings a community together.

WHEN: March 8, 2008, 3 to 11pm
WHERE: Bell Arts Factory, 432 N. Ventura Ave, Ventura
MUSIC: Phil Salazar & the Harlem Holler with Hans Ottsen will headline with Left of Memphis, Dan Wilson, The Nish Initiative, Varon Thomas, Rude Calderon, Found Keys, Sus Corez, The Restless Hillfillies, Blue Moon, and Emy Reynolds. There will be music all afternoon and evening on two alternating stages.

FOOD & DRINK: Delicious catered food as well as beer, wine, margaritas and non-alcoholic drinks will be available at reasonable prices.
TICKETS: $10-$20 at the door, on a sliding scale. For information on advance ticket sales call 805-641-3845.

To find out more about Art City please read our ART CITY BLOG for current information on Saving Art City and visit our website Art City
*** *** ***
All profits from "Fandango Americana" will help re-construct the Westside Ventura icon, Art City. This innovative collective of artists has been part of the community since 1985.
Art City has recently undergone great struggle, having to tear down most of its existing building structures in order to comply with code enforcement in the City of Ventura.
Many people, businesses and cultural organizations of the region, including the City, are supportive of Art City Inventura in its efforts to initially raise $25,000 in the next 90 days. The funds from this kickoff benefit will be used to abate remaining code issues and to begin rebuilding for the next phase of invention.
While more funds will be needed to grow Art City to its fullest potential in the next several years, many fellow artists, patrons and supporters look forward to your help in making this one of Ventura's most memorable musical and cultural events.

For more information, photos, interviews, feature material
PRESS CONTACTS:
Sophia Kidd
impotech@gmail.com

Gwendolyn Alley
gwendolynalley@yahoo.com

Lorenzo DeStefano
Lorenzo@lorenzodestefano.com

Sixth Annual Erotic Exhibit:The Human Form Divine

2008-01-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

Sixth Annual Erotic Exhibit:The Human Form Divine
February 9th - March 16th
Jurors: Nora Yukon & Jim Melnik
Curators are Paul Lindhard & Phil Taggert.

Opening Reception Saturday, February 9th 6 to 9 pm

“You asked what I thought about before we were lovers. The answer is easy. Before I met you I didn’t have anything to think about”
- Kenneth Rexroth

One of our most popular contemporary exhibits. A look at the sensual and erotic, distilled through the muse and onto the many enticing visual palates of the arts community.

First Friday's Ventura -- Gallery Walk

2008-01-25T09:45:00.001-08:00

JOIN US for a free self-guided tour of local art galleries, art studios, museums and alternative art venues on the First Friday of every month from 5 - 8 pm.

Participating Galleries and Venues

OUR MISSION is to show why Ventura is California's NEWEST ART CITY! Spend your day relaxing by the beach and your evenings purusing the arts in Ventura.

Ventura’s Art City Needs a Miracle

2008-01-16T18:37:00.000-08:00

Please join as a community in taking a stand for the preservation of Ventura’s Art City. Art City is at a critical stage and there are immediate funding needs for re-building and restoration of the studio facilities.

The San Buenaventura Artists’ Union has arranged to accept tax deductible donations for Art City while it continues its application for nonprofit status for Art City Inventura. Donations can be made by check, cash or money order. Please make checks or money orders to San Buenaventura Artists Union.

Please deliver or mail donations to:
San Buenaventura Artists Union
c/o Dona Wieckowski
1684 Poli Street
Ventura, CA 93001

Each donation will be forwarded to Art City and an acknowledgement letter will be issued by the San Buenaventura Artists’ Union for tax purposes.

For more information please call:
Dona Wieckowski - 805 648.7544
Paul Lindhard – 805 653.6380
Russel Erickson - 805 648.1690

Please also visit and interact on the ART CITY BLOG at http://artcityventura.wordpress.com/ for current and evolving fundraising and activities information.

Ventura Music Festival - Appassionata -- January 5th - February 3rd

2008-01-16T08:26:00.000-08:00

The Ventura Music Festival - Appassionata
January 5th - February 3rd

The San Buenaventura Artists’ Union Gallery will be the first stop for the travelling Music Festival exhibit to be auctioned in March. The exhibit includes an unprecedented 40 pieces of artwork this year. Our Gallery will sponsor this event as one of our community support projects for 2008.

This artwork absolutely runs the gamut from traditional, to impressionistic, expressionistic, mixed media, sculpture, abstract and more. For additional information about the art auction gala in March, 2008 or art pieces available, visit the website www.venturamusicfestival.org or call 648-3146.

Tuesday Night Poets 2008

2007-12-24T10:07:00.000-08:00

The Tuesday Night Poets are taking a break on 12/25 and 1/1/2008 but will be back on January 8. The featured poets are listed below ...

Every Tuesday at 7:30 pm
Artists’ Union Gallery
330 South California Street, Ventura
Host: Roe Estep, (805)320-3524
Open-mic

January 8: Sam Harley
January 22: Chryss Yost
January 29: Jim Lenfesty
February 5: Doris Vernon
February 19: Jim Vernon
February 26: David Olivera
March 11: Lois Klein
March 25: Lynne Thompson
April 8: Diana Raab
April 22: Sojourner Kincaid Rolle

also at the Artists’ Union Gallery:
February 16: "I Like to think of You Naked" the erotic poetry reading
March 1: The Bear Flag Republic poetry anthology book reading
April 10: Ending Homelessness in 10 Years panel discussion
April 12: From the Margins poetry reading

Blogger Comments on Gallery Select Show

2007-12-21T10:44:00.000-08:00

Comments on the December 2007 Gallery Select Show on GoGallery Blog...

Gallery Select Exhibitition Nov 17 - Dec 16

2007-11-17T08:07:00.000-08:00

The Artists’ Union Gallery Committee presents its first Gallery Select Exhibition from November 17th through December 16th.

Featuring work by:
Morgan Alexander
Gary Chafe
Dan Layman
Joseph Palmoutsos
John Ramirez
Shalaco Sching

This is an ivitational outreach exhibit for artists who might not otherwise be able to showcase their artwork. These creative individuals will be brought into the light of the Gallery to expand awareness of their talents. Artists were selected and sponsored by Gallery Committee members.

Opening Reception at the Gallery on Saturday November 17th 6:00 to 9:00 pm

thanks,
The Gallery Committee
Gayle Childress, MB Hanrahan, elle je freeheart,G. Ramon Byrne, Paul Lindhard, Dave Rivas and Phil Taggart

Digital Diversity Winning Entries

2007-11-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Now, Ta-Da, for the award winners...

Best of Show went to Dale O'Dell, Prescott, AZ for his beautifully executed, whimsical & wonderfully creative piece, Wireless, Pets Allowed.

First place in the Digital Art category went to Yolanda Klappert, Los Angeles, CA for her impressive Grand Canyon Raphsody.

First place for Digital Photography went to Gabriel Rodriguez de Alba, Tlaquepaque, Mexico for his arresting shot, Muerte Roja.

Second & third place winners in Digital Art were The Engineer by Lois Freeman, IFillmore, CA and March by Liz King , Camarillo. Second & third in Digital Photography went to Susan Magness, Ventura, CA for What Lies Ahead and Evening Light on Lake Crescent, by Susannah Kramer, Camarillo, CA.

There were four Honorable Mention awards in each category.

For Digital Art, they were: Dancer, David Rivas, Ventura, CA; The Boat, Allen Lieberman, Thousand Oaks, CA; Snails, Richard Del Rosso, Hicksville, NY, and Two Trees & The Harbor, Sarah Kalvan, Ventura, CA.

Digital Photography Honorable Mentions went to Narrow Passage, Mark Jansen, Ventura, CA; Black Cat, Susan Magness, Ventura, CA; Distraction, Jessica Leza, Spring, TX, and Early Light, Fred Magness, Ventura, CA.

The Digital Diversity show was developed to celebrate the diversity of digital arts, well as the diverse and ever changing nature of the world we live in. Like our planet, the digital arts movement is in a continual state of flux. It is constantly changing, influenced by new technology, ever changing demand and the creativity and technical expertise of today's digital artists. The Digital Diversity showcase is designed to demonstrate the beauty and versatility of this relatively new art form.

Showing all entries on two 37" high-definition LCD TVs proved to be an inspired idea, by committee co-chair John Greenwood. John arranged installation of the TVs and prepared the looping slide shows for them, with Photography shown on one set, digital art on the other. The displayed images were sharp, clear & stunning - looking every bit as good, sometimes better, than framed work hung on the gallery walls!

Special thanks to all those who helped make Digital Diversity possible.
My best wishes & thanks to all!
Ken Fermoyle, curator & co-chair, Digital Diversity committee

Reflections on Glass - Opens September 8th - Upstairs Gallery

2007-08-29T13:12:00.001-07:00

Reflections on Glass
Sept. 8th to October 7th
Upstairs Gallery

A collaborative show featuring works by photographer, Julie Callahan and glass artist, Teal Rowe.

What do you get when you meld amazing hand blown glass with ingenious photographic interpretation?

Open Reception Sept. 8th
PUBLIC WELCOME

Salon 2007 Member Show Photos

2007-08-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

Jackson Wheeler awarded prizes to 1st,2nd,and 3rd place winners. As a special bonus he and fellow juror, Joe Rund, each selected three Honorable Mentions who received certificates.

Award Winners
1st Place = Judy Suzuki "Mystery"
2nd Place = Kathy LaForce "Disillusioned Perspective"
3rd Place = Harry Poliak "Ghost Spirit"
Jackson Wheeler Honorable Mentions
Grant Ensminger "Trees"
Kristina Grey "Manifesting Raven"
Jeanne LaRocco "Saint No.2"
Joe Rund Honorable Mentions
Taras Tulek "Old Mission Quad"
Kristen Walker "Make Art, Not War, Mary"
Nora Yukon "Together We Stand"

Awards Ceremony with Jackson Wheeler

Judy Suzuki and her first place winner "Mystery"

Harry Pollack third place winner with artist Amy Schneider

Enjoying Good Food and Good Company

Salon 2007- Member Exhibit -"United"

2007-07-31T14:04:00.001-07:00

Salon 2007 August 4th to September 2nd
Opening Reception: Saturday, August 4th 6 pm to 9 pm
PUBLIC WELCOME

A presentation of artwork by AU members with an open theme. This is always a distinctively eclectic exhibit.
Curator:David Rivas
Jurors: Jackson Wheeler & Joe Rund

Dave Rivas, AU Member to Appear on KCET, Tuesday July 31st

2007-07-31T13:46:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday July 31, Los Angeles public television station KCET CHANNEL 28, will feature Ventura resident David Rivas in a segment on "Life and Times".

The piece is a video titled "Boilerman" shot by Ryan Kohler and Josh Harmon from Brooks Institute.

It will air at 7PM and then again at 1AM then several more times in the coming months.

Dave is an active AU member and well-known in local art circles for his adstract photography and limited edition chromogenic prints. One of Dave's abstracts, Rose, has been selected for the 2007 Harvest ArtWalk posters.

Dave can be reached at 805.701.2466
david@rivasart.com
http://www.rivasart.com/

Photos from the AUG Membership Meeting

2007-06-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

Our Annual Membership Meeting was a rousing success. Over 86 artists and friends in attendance enjoying the meeting and a fabulous meal.

Black & White Exhibit - June 23 - July 29

2007-06-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

Black & White Exhibit June 23rd to July 29th

Open Juried Exhibit
Curator: Peter Eble
Juror: Marjorie Moskowitz

What is B & W and wall to wall? It’s plain as the nose on your face! Pop or Op or … Black & white equate elegance and intrigue. Put creativity to the test by filling our gallery with the contrast of anything black and/or white.

Annual Membership Meeting -- June 28 -- 6:30 PM

2007-06-13T10:04:00.001-07:00

Come One-Come All to the San Buenaventura Artists Union.
Open to the all ... Artists, Poets, and interested Public...

It's time to renew your membership and we are going to do things a little different this year! Our meeting will be a catered event at our Gallery. So bring your appetite, your date calendar and your ideas. RSVP to Dona Wieckowski by email donawieckowski@yahoo.com or call 648-7544 by June 25th.

On the Agenda:

Request for Gallery exhibit proposals:
Our Gallery Committee is currently seeking proposals for 2008. If you are interested or have questions about a solo exhibit, group exhibit or an overall suggestion for a gallery exhibit, we would love to hear from you at the meeting. Link to Gallery Proposal Forms

Membership Volunteer Agreement and Gallery Sitting:
The Gallery is open for viewing and sales only if volunteers are there to open the doors and greet people.
Levels of Membership:
Volunteer Membership Level requires the member to commit to a regularly scheduled 3 hours per month sitting in the Gallery.
Non-Volunteer Membership Level allows member to pay a higher fee with no commitment for Gallery sitting.
BOD members will be available for questions.

Request for candidates for the Board of Directors:
We are currently accepting requests for BOD members for our 2007-2008 elections. If you are interested, please submit a brief resume at the meeting or before June 25th by mail.

Upcoming "MEMBERS ONLY" exhibit:
Salon 2007 ~ "United" is scheduled for August 4th ~ September 2nd, 2007
With your 2007-2008 membership your first piece is guaranteed, (2nd & 3rd entries as space allows). There will be awards given during our opening night reception for this exhibit and the entry fees will be waived. That's right! FREE, no entry fees.
Our judge(s) will be announced at the members meeting.
First Place=$200, Second Place=$100 & Third Place=$50

Be there or be square...

Member Profile: Susan Ottevanger

2007-06-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Artists’ Union member Susan Ottevanger received some joyous news recently, but almost threw it away!

Susan got a request from the Smithsonian Natural History Museum in Washington, D.C. to use some of her paintings in an exhibit in 2008, "Going to Sea" that will open in conjunction with new Ocean Hall.

At about the same time, the Ritz-Carlton hotel chain requested limited rights to another one of her paintings for use in a new resort, Molasses Reef, Turks & Caicos. The sale of rights was completed to the satisfaction of both parties.

But these two wonderful success stories almost didn’t happen. Let Susan explain in her own words. “A Fish Story - ‘The Two That Almost Got Away!’

“Initial contact for both of these wonderful opportunities came in emails. “Neither were clearly marked – no RITZ, no THE Smithsonian - just a clump of initials that my annoyed and impatient self had checked and was about to DELETE, along with the Cheap Meds, Stock Pick, LOTTO and 3rd world royalty spam."

“Then my other side, the nitpicking, optimistic self, took over and read the mail. Yikes. “So, folks, be careful about what you delete. Spam is a drag, but don't let the bad guys really get the best of you.”

Susan grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with access to the woods and ponds.

“My favorite toy was a large glass jar I could fill with pond water and watch life forms swim around for hours. Prime time was going to a lake or one of the- Great Lake. In 1975 I moved to Toronto to live on Lake Ontario. I worked on props and special effects as my ‘day job’ and did watercolors and fiber arts by night.”

She married another water fanatic in 1983 and they packed up and moved to Florida.

“Never been there before. We lived, sailed and dove around Miami for 10 years. I was so overwhelmed by the colors and creatures, I didn't paint for a few years.”

Hurricane Andrew prompted another move, to Seattle.

“We loved the rugged coastline, the new birds, especially the exotic ducks, but after 10 years of heat and sunshine, a year of drizzle did us in.”

Next stop was Southern California, where they have been for 10 years. The couple lives on a boat in a Channel Islands Harbor marina.

Susan has designed and built props and special effects for film, television, commercials, theater, theme parks and retail environments using varied materials. Projects include huge puppets, a mock Manhattan, Mayan, giant mechanical flowers, model trains, a variety of creature costumes & more for clients from GM to Vegas hotels.

Susan's website
Contact:susan@seewater.com

"BEST OF ARTWALK” Exhibit April 21- May 6, 2007

2007-04-29T14:49:00.000-07:00

"BEST OF ARTWALK” Exhibit
April 21st through May 6th

Curators: Robin Elander & Denise Sindelar

The Spring ArtWalk, to be held on Saturday, April 28th from 1pm to 9pm, will be the first ArtWalk to include a “BEST OF THE ARTWALK” juried show to be held at the ARTISTS’ UNION GALLERY.

The Artists Union Gallery is the perfect place to start your tour of the Artwalk on April 28th.

Open Reception Wednesday, April 25th
7 pm to 9 pm
PUBLIC WELCOME

One of the goals of this exhibit is to have a gathering place for the public as well as all ArtWalk participating artists and merchants to convene at a pre-ArtWalk reception honoring the Best of ArtWalk artists. Mark your calendar for this reception on Wednesday, April 25th from 7-9pm at the Gallery.

AU Member Profile: Gordon Punt, Sculptor

2007-04-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

Member Profile: Gordon Punt, sculptor, contributor to AU, and now creator of Ventura Virtual Sculptor & Art Museum

Gordon Punt has been a mover during his life. When he came to Ventura he became a mover and shaker!

But let’s start at the beginning start at the beginning… He was born and lived in LA the first 18 years of his life. After four years in the Navy, Gordon moved to San Francisco for four years, and the went on to live in the Santa Rosa area for 24 years. That was enough time in one area for him, and several factors dictated his move to Ventura about eight years ago.

First, his mother was still alive and living here at that time, so he took care of her for six months, before she passed away. “The other big reason I moved to Ventura was Art City,” Gordon says. “For many years I had visited Art City, and Paul Lindhard had helped me when I needed some marble. I also needed a base to operate my commercial garden art business ("Creature Rocks"), for which I delivered to nurseries and garden gift stores all over California. I wanted to continue my fine art sculpture as well, and there is no better place in California than Art City to do that. “Soon after starting to work at Art City, I became interested in the Artists' Union because some of the other sculptors I worked around were involved. I wanted to meet other local artists so I joined the Union when the Gallery was first established on California Street.

“My experience in hanging my own shows for thirty years came in handy, so I gradually became more involved in the Artists' Union. I then started the Arts & Crafts Show, which began in the small park on Main Street, near the Farmer's Market. After a year at the Park, I moved the show to the Beach where it continues today. I also started the AU website. In July 2006, I stepped down from being Vice President of the Artists' Union to work on other projects. The website I created for the Union inspired me to make a more in depth website for local sculptors.” The result was Gordon’s museum site, entitled the Ventura Virtual Sculpture & Arts Museum(VVSAM). The website not only focuses on sculpture but the other art forms the sculptors create as well. “The Museum exists not to sell art, but to archive the masterpieces our local artists have produced in their careers. The Sculpture Museum is intended to continue for many generations, and hopefully will encourage other artists to make similar websites. You can see the website at: www.sculpture-museum.com and it is also represented in the new online Saatchi Gallery at: http://www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/dealers_galleries

“I love living in Ventura and enjoy the myriad of art and artists here that I have come to know.”

Gordon creates sculptures in various and in bronze. He also sketches in pen and ink. He explains some of the things that inspire his art this way. “"I am fascinated with the human face for many reasons. First of all the face is a meeting place between the inner and outer worlds. The expression on someone's face can tell you at one glance a story that would take paragraphs to explain in words. I also love shapes, so the combination of eyes, nose and mouth give me lots of variety and challenges as I move from one type of face to another. When I see a face emerging from my pen, clay, wax or stone, it looks back at me and gives me a kind of energy that I do not
find in abstract art. I can even feel a spiritual presence sometimes that is very
comforting."

Gordon earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at Sonoma State University and went to Carrara, Italy in 1984 to work on his Master of Fine Arts degree. His overall educational background is impressive. Here are other institutes he has attend for varying periods over the years: Academy of Art, San Francisco; Art Center School, LA, CA; El Camino Jr. College, LA, CA (Drawing and Painting); Santa Monica Jr. College, Santa Monica, CA (Sculpture & Drawing); San Francisco Art Institute, SF, CA (Honors in Figure Drawing); Evolution Art Institute, Petaluma, CA (Stone Sculpture & Tool Making; Sierra University, San Francisco.

Gordon can be reached at 805 340-0609; or via e-mail at: gordon@gpunt.com; gordon_punt@yahoo.com.
His web sites include: www.gpunt.com,
www.free-nude-drawings.com
and http://www.sculpture-museum.com

Written by Ken Fermoyle

Barbed Art Exhibit Ends April 8th

2007-03-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Last Chance to see the Barbed Art Exhibit....

Curated by the 8 founding artists: Charlotte Black, Gayel Childress, Lynne Farrow, Laura Gallardo, Joyce Lombard, Sylvia Raz, Mary Scott and Patty Van Dyke

Reconstructed fashion dolls and actions figures are the foundation for this show. The object is to raise awareness of, and money for, the Coalition to End Family Violence (CEFV).

Jackson Wheeler Art Exhibit -- Special Two Day Event

2007-03-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Jackson Wheeler Art Collection Exhibit -- Special Two Day Event
Saturday, April 14th, 12 noon to 9 pm
Sunday, April 15th, 12 noon to 6 pm

Featuring a Gallery Talk by "Jackson Wheeler on Collecting Art" Sunday, April 15th, 3 pm

Poet Jackson Wheeler and attorney Joe Rund will speak on he subject of buying local art and their experiences as collectors of local art.
Admission is $10. This talk is a benefit for the Artists’ Union Gallery.

Background on the Collection

For thirty years, Jackson Wheeler and Joe Gund have carefully collected pivotal works by Ventura County artists and photographers, making this a precious record of art produced in our area. Jackson has made a promised bequest of his collection to the Oxnard’s Carnegie Art Museum of over 50 works.

Jackson Wheeler,the founder of the Ventura Poetry Festival, is also known as a social worker & poet living in Oxnard, CA. A native of Andrews, NC in the Smoky Mountains, he is the author of two collections, Swimming Past Iceland (Mille Grazie Press, 1993) and with Glenna Luschei and David Oliveira, A Near Country: Poems of Loss (Solo Press, 1999). Having just stepped down as editor of SOLO: A Journal of Poetry, he is guest co-editing an American issue of the British journal, AGENDA as well as consulting on a Southern Appalachian issue of the journal Rivendell. He has work forthcoming in Praire Schooner, Rivendell, and an anthology from the Univ. of Iowa, A Fine Frenzy: Contemporary Poets Respond to Shakespeare. Jackson hosts the Arcade Poetry Series at the Carnigie Art Museum in Oxnard.

Artists represented in the Collections of Jackson Wheeler and Joe Rund: Cornelius Botke, Jessie Arms Botke, Kitty Botke, Christine Brennan, Horace Bristol, Michelle Chapin, Donna Clark, Carlisle Cooper, Peter Eble, Bob Eyberg, Bruce Freeman, Aimée French, Sue Gerding, Keith Haring, Lawrence Hinkley, Gauvin, George Hitchcock, Barbara Hoff, Gerd Koch, Mark Lane, Sherry Loehr, Hiroko Yoshimoto, Jane McKinney, Mary Michael, Mark Matthews, Ginger Moore Maxwell, Sally Miller, Carol Milton, Michael Moore, Mona Neuhaus, John Nichols, Julie Doll Nicolle, Aileen Worthley, Richard Peterson, Susan Petty, Howard Quam, Shirley Ransom, Frank Romero, Douglas Shively, Robert Smith, Paul Stempen, Charles Spink, Linda Taylor, Anne Veis, Robert Wassal, Charlotte Watts, Beatrice Wood.

Be there of be square....

Barbed Art Exhibit - March 10 - April 8 -- Opening Gala and Live Aution March 10th

2007-03-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

Barbed Art: Reconstructed Fashion Dolls & Action Figures
March 10 - April 8, 2007

There will be a LIVE AUCTION for all 8 Founding Artists Dolls and Stories on Saturday, March 10th, 5:00 to 9:00 pm. All proceeds go to benefit the Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CEFV).

Reconstructed fashion dolls altered in order to mount an exhibition will be the foundation for this show. All pieces in the show are comprised of one or more altered fashion dolls and/or action figures in a 2 or 3 dimensional format.

Curated by the 8 founding artists: Charlotte Black, Gayel Childress, Lynne Farrow, Laura Gallardo, Joyce Lombard, Sylvia Raz, Mary Scott and Patty Van Dyke.

These founding artists spent the last year as "Barbarians," tearing down an American icon in the name of social commentary, the upcoming exhibit, and a good cause. They worked on the dolls in round-robin fashion, each altering one doll and passing it along to the seven other artists, who took a turn adding to it. They were free to
embellish as they wished, and to add notes and even fictional story lines in journals they kept for each doll. The object is to raise awareness of, and money for, the Coalition to End Family Violence (CEFV).

Be There of Be Square!

March Poetry Readings

2007-02-26T19:49:00.000-08:00

Upcoming AUG Poetry Readings

Tuesdays at 7:30 pm
Artists’ Union Gallery
330 South California Street, Ventura
Host: Roe Estep, (805)320-3524
Open-mic

February 27: Maggie Westland
March 13: Richard Beban
March 20: Jeanette Clough

VC Reporter Reviews 'Better Than Chocolate' Poetry Reading

2007-02-26T19:40:00.000-08:00

News from Phil Taggert

There was a lovely review of the annual erotic reading, Better than Chocolate, in this weeks issue of the VC Reporter. The reading is a benefit for the Artists’ Union Gallery and co-inhabits the erotic show that’s still in exhibition there.

Oral Stimulation
A review of the “Better Than Chocolate” erotic poetry reading at the Artist Union Gallery.~ By MARGARET LANDREAU ~
Link to VC Reporter

Member News

2007-01-23T10:11:00.000-08:00

Member Lynn LeTourneau passes on this word of a new show at Santa Barbara's AFS Gallery. Lynn has work in the exhibit invites all AU members to attend the Friday, Jan 26 reception , 5 to 8 pm.

Art From Scrap Gallery Presents "DESPERATELY SEEKING..."
Mixed media/assemblage artwork by students in Jill Sattler's Santa Barbara Adult Education painting & mixed-media art class
(Students are gifted beginners to professional artists and instructors)

Show hangs from January 26th through March 9, 2007
Location: Upstairs at Art From Scrap at 302 E. Cota Street, Santa Barbara
Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10:00-2:00, Thursday 10:00-6:00

Camera's Eye View of the Wall to Wall Exhibit

2007-01-21T13:39:00.000-08:00

Join us for the Wall to Wall Gala on January 27th

Photos by Ken & Liz Fermoyle

Wall to Wall Gala -- January 27th

2007-01-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

The Artists’ Union Gallery will hold a Wall-to-Wall Party from 6 to 9 pm January 27, 2007.

Not only will it give you a chance to meet the artists selected for the current Wall to Wall exhibit, but there will be music, refreshments (including wine) and surprise “mystery” gifts. Come party with us and view this exciting, eclectic exhibition of work from talented Artists’ Union members.

There are sweeping minimalist nudes and exquisite figurines from Gordon Punt, the exuberant metal sculptures of Helle Scharling-Todd, saucy photos from MB Hanrahan, striking stone sculptures by Rude Calderon and Michele Chapin, avant-garde work of Dan Layman and Taras Tulek (including some “black light” paintings by Taras) and stunning photography from Linda Petersen.

Then there is the show-within-a-show: Carpe Diem – two survivors’ retrospective, featuring the work of Ken & Liz Fermoyle. It includes a representative sampling of their creative efforts since 1995, shortly after Liz suffered a massive stroke and just before Ken was diagnosed with cancer. There are pieces from their Clay Period (ceramics by Ken, porcelain by Liz), abstracts done by Ken during his 18 months of legal blindness, plus some of Liz’s award-winning oils & pastels (including the first two pastels she ever did). This truly is a “don’t miss” event. Join us, and bring your friends.

Note to Members:
We really need gallery sitters to fill in gaps during Wall to Wall. If you can spare three hours during the next 3-1/2 weeks, please call the Gallery at 643-3012 and sign up or leave a message. This would be an excellent time for those of you who agreed to volunteer time to the gallery when you signed up as members at the lower rate last June - and haven’t yet participated - to make good on your promise. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Ken Fermoyle
Newsletter editor, Media Committee

Member Profile -- Lynn LeTourneau, Painter, Sculptor

2007-01-12T11:05:00.000-08:00

Lynn LeTourneau, a multi-talented sculptor, printmaker, and painter, joined the Artists Union in 2006. She has already become an enthusiastic volunteer and currently holds the prized position of coordinating AU Gallery Sitters.

“I am privileged that I can live this life” states Lynn.

Lynn spent her youth in the museums of New York City and learned to draw the human figure at the famed Art Students League. She studied Jung and abstract expressionism, attended the Boston Museum School of Fine Arts, taught art classes, and received a degree in transpersonal psychology from Antioch University in San Francisco.

After graduation, Lynn attended classes at the Fort Mason Center exploring figurative clay sculpture finding inspiration in the figurative expressions of Redon, Goodacre, and other masters. This experience was vital according to Lynn. “I learned how to see accurately and carve interpretively.” For the next twelve years, Lynn primarily worked in clay sculpting the human form. She is a member of the San Francisco Sculptor’s Co-op and the San Francisco Women’s Art Gallery. In 2001, Lynn relocated to Santa Barbara and became active in the Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild. After a move to Carpinteria in 2006, Lynn joined the Artists Union.

Lynn’s newest works are mixed media paintings that are “kinesthetic in nature.” She begins by meditating upon a theme allowing feelings and thoughts to gestate until forms and colors arise. Sculptural elements and mixed media combine to give texture and depth to the canvases. Lynn says “For me, each canvas is a window to connect with visual archetypal patterns and materialize forms.”

“I observe the process and think about what is occurring within the activity and play with the elements of the picture. The paintings have a life of their own and form a collective visual story. The titles present themselves afterwards,” says Lynn.

Lynn became a member of the Artists Union because she enjoys the collaborative process that comes about when artists gather together. She also enjoys taking classes in Santa Barbara with Jill Sattler and others. Lynn has a studio at SeaBreeze Gallery and Studios which hosted her one woman show in April 2005. Her work has appeared in local shows and galleries including the Artists Union Salon 2006, the Juried Competition at the County Government Center, and Palm Loft in Carpinteria. Lynn’s figurative sculpture will be available at Allegory Fine Arts Gallery on Front Street in Ventura.

For more information feel free to contact Lynn for a visit her studio or online at essenceartworks@yahoo.com.

Written by Jeanne LaRocco

Member Profile -- G. Ramon Byrne, Stone Sculptor

2007-01-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

Leave Big Sur and move to Ventura; are you crazy?

G. Ramon Byrne explains his move this way:
"I had been purchasing stone from Art City for about 12 years when Paul Lindhard approached me with a proposition"

(Paul's words) "Ramon, I'm sitting on about 1,000,000 pounds of stone and I'd like to spend the next 10 years carving it, how would you like to come to Art City and join me?"

"Well, the rest is history... we formed a Public Art Team and we are actively involved in the AU Gallery of which I am proud to be a member. I have found it to be a very progressive and cutting edge gallery for this or any other area."

And part of it, he is! So much so that he was elected vice president in June. He also plays a very active role on the Gallery Committee and is a member of the Board of Directors.

Ramon, now artist in residence at Art City, was born in Lone Pine, CA and is a 3rd-generation stonemason and artist. In the early 70's he became apprentice to Edmund Kara, Big Sur's renowned wood sculptor. After a few years Ramon began carving stone, and has been doing so ever since. Ramon serves as an instructor/demonstrator for the annual Sculptors Symposium, at Camp Ocean Pines, Cambria, CA. Ramon’s professional assistance to other carvers, coupled with his design concepts and carving skills, have resulted in the beginnings of a large public art installation depicting marine life. This installation is destined to become a timeless landmark at Camp Ocean Pines. In addition to his Symposium involvement, he also facilitates stone sculpting workshops and tutors individual sculpture students.

Ramon's work has been installed in many public and private locations throughout Northern and Southern California and New Mexico.

Ramon’s background in stone masonry and Hardscape Design, as well as the more than 30 years he spent living on the Big Sur coast, influence his unique style and vision significantly. His interest in the metaphysical and the works of Carl Jung add depth to his work that reflects his inner mindscape and the intimate relationship he has with nature.

Ramon’s next workshop, The Mysterious Realm of Stone Carving, will be at Esalen Institute from October 15 to 20. This class is open to beginners as well as experienced sculptors.

Gallery 33 in Ventura currently represents Ramon. His work is shown there as well as in AU Gallery exhibits. He accepts commissions and will appreciate any information AU members can pass on.

Written by Ken Fermoyle

Member Profile -- Paul Lindhard, Sculptor, Art City Founder

2007-01-12T10:59:00.000-08:00

Meet the Art City creator and a “founding father” of the Artists’ Union.

Tour Art City with Paul Lindhard and you feel a palpable sense of community and creativity, characteristics that also typify the San Buenaventura Artists’ Union.

That’s no coincidence, because Art City was one of the major seedbeds in the formation of San Buenaventura Artists’ Union. And Paul was one of the “gardeners” who planted the seeds and
has nurtured the organization’s growth ever since!

“The idea for AU was born in artists’ studios, places like Art City, the dear departed Art City II and Micheles’s Stone Works,” Paul explains. “Then we began meeting in a local coffee shop, and started spending a lot of time sounding off at council meetings about the local art community, its needs and what it could contribute to the City of Ventura.

“Eventually the city fathers heard our message, and we got our current gallery space, plus continuing support from the city – for which we are eternally grateful!”

Paul founded of Art City, a unique artists’ enclave located on Ventura’s westside, in 1985. Primarily a stone sculptor, Lindhard wanted Art City to serve as a constant artistic stimulus to enhance his own work and the work of others. As the studios grew in both size and respect, Lindhard soon realized the value of a community studio and the numerous advantages of working in close proximity to other creative minds. Art City studios and gallery continue to
attract well-respected artists both locally and abroad.

His dream has evolved over the years, surviving a major fire at Art Cityand various other bumps in the road. His studio-workshopgallery complex now hosts over 20 professional sculptors, who make beautiful desktop pieces to monumental sculptures and fountains. They share common facilities and each other's knowledge. It also contains an inventory of more than a million pounds of various kinds of stone and other sculpture supplies. As an undergraduate, Lindhard studied fine art in California and Mexico, earning in a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from UC Santa Barbara in 1970. In 1976, he enrolled in the MFA program at Pennsylvania State University where he served as artist-in-residence and taught bronze casting. From 1978-1988, Lindhard taught sculpture at Santa Barbara City College.

Lindhard has traveled throughout the world selecting and frequently hand-quarrying the stone, but in recent years his searches for stone have centered on the Western U.S.. According to him, stones are basically found objects, which give voice to nature, and in his work, he seeks to balance what he sees on the outside with what he finds on the inside.

Carving for Lindhard is a visceral experience, a journey into unexplored and unending territory.

Written by Ken Fermoyle

Arts & Crafts by the Sea - Every Saturday

2007-01-12T10:46:00.000-08:00

Arts & Crafts by the Sea is sponsored by the San Buenaventura Artists' Union located In Ventura's California Street Plaza next to the beach, between the Crowne Plaza (formerly the Holiday Inn) And the Artists' Union Gallery.
Every Saturday 10am - 4pm

Handcrafts Jewelry Clothing & AccessoriesHome & Garden Art All items are hand-made, sold by the artist.

Need a gift? Or just looking for something different? Here's the Place to Shop.

For more information or vendor application:
Email: artsbythesea@verizon.net
Phone: Deidra, 805-421-9270
Or SASE to: Arts by the SeaPO Box 924, Santa Paula, CA 93061-0924

Welcome

2007-01-12T10:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Artists Union Gallery Blog

The San Buenaventura Artists' Union is a nonprofit association of professional artists creating in Ventura County, California. Since 1991 its members have worked to elevate the arts to the highest standards, through mutual support and the cultivation of individual and group endeavors that benefit the greater good of our cultural and aesthetic life.

The Artists' Union is an inclusive organization seeking to promote the interests of its' members by encouraging individuals creativity and public appreciation of contemporary art.

Check here often for news of events, calls to artists, and member information.