Creative Buffalo

Artspace

2009-04-18T11:23:00.002-05:00

Kevin and I are gallery sitting for a few hours here at Artspace, which is featuring the MARK '08 show. I've been getting a lot of questions about what 'MARK' means. Some of you that follow this blog may remember last year at this time ; I was going nuts trying to get my presentation together (the MARK '09 group presentation is this Monday at Hallwalls, 7 pm). Check the archives last year- I was really happy to be involved in the program and wrote a lot about it.

This show has been good, too. All together, this year has been good for showing locally; the MARK show, joining the College Street co-op (show on the 1st Friday of each month, and Allentown), and the Film Photographers of Greater Buffalo (Night photography show at CEPA, May 2nd). Keeping me working...

Inspiration

2009-03-14T23:35:00.003-05:00

Inspiration. I must say, I have been reading so much about the creative process, ways to "see" differently, to 'shake up' my photographic flow, but lately, I feel a bit of a funk. Lack of inspiration? I'm getting ready for a show and feeling pressure to have really good work, and figuring out how to afford to pay for it. It was really getting to me today; getting a little depressed about it all.
Tonight was a somewhat (I hope) annual party at some friends art studio- both painters who I really like (personally and their work). Kevin and I go; a great old industrial building, their work all over the place, great city view from huge windows. Lots of friends-conversations from the serious to the sentimental to the silly. Offered a project, chastened for not having a proper website. I know this sounds so simple, so elemental, but tonight was, well, inspiring. The mix of friends, the setting, perhaps even the infrequency. First thing I did when I got home was to write a 'to-do' list for tomorrow-things I need to get done to get ready for this upcoming show. Second, I wrote this. As you can see- it's been too long since I've been inspired to blog....

The Holidays, etc...

2008-12-29T19:31:00.002-05:00

Haven't been on the blog recently, so I thought I'd play around for a bit...
The last week has sucked a lot out of me, mostly in a good way. It has seen Christmas Eve and Christmas itself. Good times. Marty and Susan's X-mas eve party was great, as usual.
The Christmas highlight (aside from the gifts, thank you all very much) was when my nephew Jack asked me a question. A bit of background. My mom decided near the last minute to un-invite my beloved dog, Walker, to the x-mas celebration at her house. He had a bath, gets along fine with her new dog, Nell, and is an all-around calm pup these days.. He was all ready. He was not allowed to come over. So, after all was done, and we were getting ready to go, Jack walks up to me and asks "Where is Walker?" Because I just had to, I told him to ask his G-ma (my mom), which he promptly did. I couldn't have planned it better...
The Fems played at the Town Ballroom. Bob Weider made a short, yet poignant (at a punk show?) comment about our late friend Mark Freeland. Aside from that, it was loud and obnoxious, just what we were waiting for! Until we all got kicked out for the Coolio show. I'm not kidding. Coolio.
I think that I overdid it though My body is telling me I need a vacation from the Holiday....

Buffalo Arts Studio Exhibit and Sale '08

2008-11-09T20:40:00.005-05:00

It's that time of year! The time of year when all of the studio artists take the work that they are really happy with, then get them framed and presentable. They go up on the wall for every one to see! We have a party, have lots of fun while quietly hoping to sell some work, to build up the holiday shopping money that we spent on framing. Come have fun with us- next Saturday, November 15th from 7 to 11. David Kane is playing music, then K. Cornelius and Brian Milbrand will be doing performance art 10-11.

Rivendell and More

2008-09-27T21:53:00.004-05:00

What a great day!
After eating breakfast at Amy's, I went out to S. Wales to Rivendell for my final ride of the season. It was great. Schopper (my horse) and I were getting along well, doing some balance work, feeling good. It is sad that it was the last ride, but I think I realized something today. When I was driving home, I was thinking about riding this summer, and it seems to me that it's finally less like 'therapeutic horse back riding for the disabled' , and more like 'riding lessons for a delicate person'. Makes me feel empowered. After my disability level was lowered by a half point last Thursday at the clinic, after a plateau that lasted 7+ years, empowerment may be the word of the week...
Kevin and I then went to Niagara Falls so that I could shoot an 'assignment' for the Film Photographers of Greater Buffalo. Of course, I can't post any yet, as I shot them with FILM. It was great- I never really investigated Goat (or the sister) Islands before. Hope I got some unique shots.
Next, we headed to the outlet mall. Now, those that know me understand that I'm NOT a fan of any mall, but we really did need a few things. I ended up with a sweater, a couple of B-day presents for Kevin, and the first new pair of winter boots I've gotten in a few years.
When we got home, we took Walker out for his night time jaunt, and we got to listen to the B-52s, who were playing in front of the Albright Knox. Sure, its about 2 miles from our house, but I could actually hear "Own Private Idaho" pretty clearly.
To end our day, we're now watching the Wisconsin/Michigan game that we DVR'd this afternoon. We just hit halftime, and , so far, it's been going just as well as the rest of the day.....

MARK: Buffalo, 2008

2008-09-21T16:51:00.003-05:00

Over the past year, I've written a lot about the NYFA program, MARK, that I was selected to be a part of. From that, I learned a lot about promoting myself as an artist, talking about my work, the importance of networks, and have made a lot of friends. I encourage the artists among you to go to the informational meeting for MARK 2009. You'll learn what the program is about, meet some people that will be involved, and hear stories from some of us who have participated. The meeting is tomorrow night, September 22, at 6 PM. NYFA has done a lot for artists accross the state, but I think the MARK program is the most hands on thing that we WNYers have the chance to experence. Check it out for yourselves, tomorrow night!

Ryan Miller, Drew Stafford with Robby and Klear @ Music is Art '08

2008-09-14T20:44:00.003-05:00

So, it was raining. People were having a ton of fun (as you can see in this video), and stuck around until the very end. Now, Robby told us last weekend in our Buffaloroots interview that he would be playing with Ryan Miller and Drew Stafford, along with the band Klear. Carla kept watch of my tent while we went to the mainstage to see it. I had my camera out in the pouring rain (I'll be posting some pictures soon), and Jim Grimaldi took a great video, which is posted here.
More on this fantastic day later. Enjoy!

Mark Freeland at the Albright Knox Collectors Gallery

2008-09-13T07:45:00.003-05:00

Robby and Carla did a fantastic job of curating Mark's work for the Albright Knox Collectors Gallery. Spoke with Robby at the opening last night (he was running around getting ready for Music is Art). He said at first he was overwhelmed at the amount of work Mark had done over the years, but started looking at his later work (the last 3 years). That choice made for a light, "happy" kind of show. Those who knew Mark know that the earlier years sometimes tended to have "darker" themes. He used a darker color palette, and a lot of collage, and the subject matter could sometimes be grim.
The later work utilized more of pastel color choices. A lot were works on canvas, and along with the 12x12" works on wood, have a great sense of humor. The subject was given room to breathe in the space it is in (the above painting is a fine example of this). Again, for those of us who knew him, it is a but reassuring to see that his work had a joyful feeling in the last years of his life.
Well, have a long day ahead- off to Music is Art. Hope to see you there!

Interview with Robby Takac

2008-09-09T09:35:00.004-05:00

Lots to do today, mostly political. Please don't forget to go out and vote, any NYStaters reading this....
Before I get moving, though, I'd like to tell you about a story that Kevin wrote and I posted on Buffaloroots last night. It was our sort of annual interview with Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls about his excellent event, Music is Art. I know I've been mentioning MiA, because I'll have a tent there, full of photography goodness, but the interview holds some surprises that I wasn't aware of until yesterday. Put it this way, Buffalo hockey fans have a good reason to go down, if you weren't planning to already. Read the article, you'll see. I know I'm psyched. Just have to find someone to watch my tent during this part of the day. I need to get some pictures to share with all of you....

End of Summer in the Air

2008-09-06T16:55:00.005-05:00

Photo by Cheryl Gorski

Was out at Rivendell riding yesterday. I can tell the summer is coming to an end- there were about 6 volunteers doing the work of a dozen getting the barn ready for the fall. The horses are moving to different stalls, poop is being cleaned out (well, that always happens), the ring is being cleared. Sorry to see it end. I was getting used to riding my new mount, Schopper. The horse in the picture above is Moe, who is also an awesome horse. But, I kind of "graduated" to Schopper, who is more disciplined than Moe; reacts to voice commands a lot better. Moe was like having manual steering in an old car, where Schopp is like the first car with power steering. At first, it almost too easy. Then the riding exercises get more difficult... But, I can't say anything bad about Moe. He is like my first car, a '68 Chevy Nova. Just loved that car.
Now, I have no problem asking for help when it comes to Rivendell. They are a great bunch of people and beasties out there, all going above and beyond. But the price of hay has doubled, and I did mention that the volunteers are doing a huge amount of work. I set up an internet donation site through Facebook- here's the link.
Maybe a week or two left of riding. It's been pretty damn good.

Getting Ready!

2008-09-01T13:13:00.003-05:00

Wow. It seems like this is coming up so fast now!
This year I'm taking the plunge. I'm going to have a tent at MIA 2008. I haven't done an outdoor show in over a decade, and I'm planning to have a lot of very affordable work there. And some big, framed stuff. This may be the first outdoor thing I've done in years, but it's actually the very first I'll be doing in te City of Buffalo. Closest I've been was the Canal Fest in Tonawanda, which, as I remember, was actually HELL. The organizers were great- Carnagie Art Center, but if one more mother or father came into my tent and told their teenage kid, "Hey, you could do THAT", I'd even join the NRA.
So, health, money, job and sanity have kept me from the art fests, but I know MIA's gonna be different. I just love Robby and the group that puts this all together (Special thanks to Eric Jenson and Conn Keogh), and I know a lot of the artists that will be showing, so it will be a great time!

Good Stuff

2008-08-24T19:49:00.003-05:00

Don't like to get political on this blog, but when the primaries come, remember how our community has grown with Sam Hoyt as our Assemblyman...

Art Fest!

2008-08-23T12:16:00.003-05:00

Yea! The Elmwood Arts Festival is here! Just waiting for Kevin to walk the pup and we can go. Lots of good music- we're going to the main stage for Terry Sullivan at 3, John and Mary at 4, scooting to the WilFa (Kevin hates it when I don't call is "The Farm") stage to catch a bit of DKQ, then back to the main tage by 5 for Gurf, then Them Jazzbeards at 6. Whew! Busy! My work is up at Dolci, so I want to stop there, too. And get my Mark Freeland t-shirt. We'd better get going!

Buffalo's Infringement Festival-Last Weekend

2008-08-02T21:27:00.004-05:00

Well, I don't feel I got to do a lot during the Festival, but since I was part of the Film Photographers of Greater Buffalo's 1st Annual Exhibit at El Museo, I felt I played a part. Tonight we did go to a couple of things, though.
First, at Alt Theatre, was David Butler's "Wading for Answers". It was a great performance written by David Butler and "soundscaped" by David Kane. It was dance and reading by several actor/dancers and Butler himself. I LOVE to see when Butler and Kane work together- they always seem to make it click. They've been working together on different projects since the 80's. For a while, as a duo known as D+D (maybe I can scare up some promo photos I did of them...).
Watching tonight brought up many memories; some from David's writing, from past performances, and some from when I got to do a play based on Poe and Lovecraft's writings- Butler directing and Kane doing music at the old Cabaret. Good times!
Then we went to Shakespeare in the parking lot- on Allen between Nietzschies and Lagniappes. Our old friend Ronawanda hosted some street theatre, complete with the crowd stepping up to act and blocking traffic. AJ Fries even did the last scene from Hamlet (the dead guy part). I need to remind myself how fun this was when it rolls around next year. At lest there's still the block party in front of College Street Gallery tomorrow...

Really, I'm Here

2008-08-01T16:13:00.003-05:00

Hello all! I'm really all over the internet. I am on the Boundless Living Challenge- 45 days to get close to or reach a goal. Since I am so interested in getting my photography to the next level, I figured this would be helpful.
I'm also getting into a photo project with the state wide MARK group. I want to work with the adapted reuse buildings in Buffalo. At first I was thinking about focusing on the mayors 5,000 in 5 years plan (demolishing a that number of houses in 5 years). But really, that's kind of depressing. The project is centered on the "inspiring" aspects of NYS. After Gov. Patterson's bleak look of the states economy, I figured I'd better go with something more positive. We do have some great examples of that, starting with Ani Difranco's church. Sending the proposal tonight!
Lastly, going to Greg Klyma's CD release tonight, if we make it after dinner with the in-laws. I helped with some photos for the package, and the songs are great!

Work Hanging at Dolci

2008-06-28T23:04:00.003-05:00

A portion of the "Ireland and Spirit" series is now being shown at Dolci Bakery at 732 Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo.
Dolci is a nice space- small, but good traffic and GREAT desserts! After I hung my work and was enjoying a treat, Kate, a lovely counter person, was serving some customers who walked down after they had finished dinner. She got into a very animated conversation with one of them in very fluid Italian. It was beautiful! So, that verified it all for me- the place has a great vibe. Do treat yourself to a visit,

MARK NYC Trip

2008-06-21T08:40:00.004-05:00

Finally! A minute to blog!
I want to write about an amazing weekend I had in NYC a couple of weeks ago with the group I have been learning and growing with. Brought together by the New York Foundation for the Arts, the 12 of us applied and were selected for a business of art series of workshops. This culminated in NYC when 6 like groups from across the state met up, presented our work, went to workshops, and stayed at the Hilton on 53rd and 6th.
I know most of us experienced a great deal of inspiration that weekend. Watching the presentations of 65 other artists, who've all been though this experience- developing the parts of us that "go along" with our work, helped us to learn a bit more about how we should grow. Our art differs in so many ways, so we saw so much that was new and thought provoking. There was a common thread between us all. We all want to learn to express ourselves regarding our work- we have become practiced in expressing through our art.
Personally, I found it life changing. I learned about my strengths and weaknesses, and how to work with them. Overall, I felt validated as an artist. After 40 years in this life, I didn't feel like my photography is some kind of expensive habit. I felt (and still do) like I got to eat at the "grownups" table at some holiday gathering of life. After all of the shows that I've done over the years, MARK is what really changed that feeling for me, and I am very grateful for that.
( I am also thankful for the friends I made. From the flurry of comments and activity since the weekend, it seems that we are going to do some things statewide. I think that the Buffalo group ; Dennis Bertram (painter), Lukia Costello (photographer), Kara Daving (painter), Jax Delucaexperemetal film maker), Amy Greenan (painter), Kevin Kegler (sculptor/mixed media), Connlith Keogh (painter/mixed media), Iris Kirkwood (painter/digital artist), Alberto Rey (painter), Richard Thompson (painter), and Jacqueline Welch (painter), finally hit it's stride in NYC. We traveled, hung out, laughed, drank, learned and presented. The four workshops that we attended once a month were very informative and helpful, but they came in "everyday life" time. Monday night-work tomorrow-I'll think about this next weekend-so much to do-life. In NYC, it was all about MARK, away from the normal pace; it seemed it was then that attention was truly focused.
As I stated, it was really good....

Another Busy May Week

2008-05-11T19:37:00.004-05:00

Mark Freeland, "The Idol Slept in an Infinite Rose"

Well, one week of rest, and back to a week of spectacular activities!
Tomorrow, I meet with the Buffalo NYFA MARK team to piece together the group portion of our presentation for NYC. I think that this group can really come up with something good- we can really wow them in New York. The closer it gets, the more psyched I get....
Then on Wednesday, there is a bit of a fundraising event for Rivendell- the place I go to ride during the summer. At Coldstone Creamery, 4110 Maple Road, from 7-9, they will be donating 10-30% of sales to Rivendell. Lets face it, that's gonna be easy. There is nothing that sucks about eating ice cream at Cold Stone.
Then Thursday, the 2nd half of Mark Freeland's birthday celebration will be at Gallery 164 (164 Allen Street) from 5-9. Music by David Kane, drink sales to benefit Lindsay Freeland's fight against cancer, and Marty Mcgee will be filming people telling their stories about Mark. Personally, I have hundreds of them, and I change my mind from minute to minute about which story I'll tell...

Mark Freeland Birthday Bash

2008-05-01T21:44:00.008-05:00

Last night was a fantastic night; a party that Mark surely would have appreciated.
First, 2 galleries filled with his paintings, and photos of him singing, playing and painting.
Then, bands of all styles paying homage to his music at Nietzsche's- all on the same block!
Another good thing (for us older folks) is that The Fems did their set early in the evening; it was the first time they played an acoustic set and it was a BALL!
Many old friends were there-Carla, Master of Ceremonies, Ed Koban started the music for the evening, Mar Penner Griswold had photos in the College Street Gallery, (a version of) Bob Weider's country ensemble performed, David Kane was playing (after we had to go-school night).
I also got the chance to add to my "spring wardrobe" with some Freeland apparel- Carla introduced a brand new tee design from Mark's later painting.
The above image is about 20 years old, taken while he was painting a mural on Connecticut Street. 2 photos from this series are hanging in Gallery 224 as part of the celebration. On May 15, the gallery will be open ; David Kane will be playing, and Marty McGee will be filming people telling their best Mark Freeland stories....

Music is Art on TV

2008-04-30T17:23:00.003-05:00

Last night, the episode was on! I have to say, the students at UB that put the show together are a talented bunch. Everything from the stage set-up, to the editing, to just how damn nice and professional they were through the whole taping.
Watching the show last night, I also recalled how inspired I felt working onstage while Them Jazzbeards were playing. I was talking to David Kane about it a while back. When I'm watching a band play, to match/use the energy present, I am photographing the band preform. This was the first time I was working on the artistic end of the process, and it brought this crazy insight.
When can I do it again?

Busy Week, Some Exposure...

2008-04-29T18:33:00.002-05:00

Last night, as part of the NYFA MARK program, we all gave our 5 minute presentations. They were almost a "practice" run for our NYC in June. We had a lot of spectators, and one was a writer for The Buffalo News. Read the article here...

This Week on Music is Art

2008-04-26T20:43:00.001-05:00

Heating Up...

2008-04-16T12:02:00.002-05:00

Well, now that Trimania is over, and I am mostly over this horrible sinus-thing that took over for at least a week, it's time to get back to work. By work, I mean my own stuff, not the day job i've been dragging myself to.
Busy week coming. On Monday, April 28th, as part of the NYFA MARK program , I'm giving my 5 minute art presentation at Hallwalls, between 7-9. It's going to be a slide presentation, cetering on the "Ireland and Spirit" series.
Then, on Tuesday, April 29, the episode of "Music is Art Live @ the Center" that I taped last fall will air on Buffalo's Thinkbright, Channel 21 at 8:30 pm. Musical guests are Them Jazzbeards and Andy Mac. They did an interview, and the I was onstage "creating" through the musical acts. I started a whole new series during Them Jazzbeards- the whole thing was so inspiring...
Then Thursday, May 1st is the "Electrorespect" show at Nietzsche's- a tribute to Mark Freeland (it would be his birthday). There is an accompaning art/photo show at the College Street Gallery and Gallery 164. I have some photos in that from hanging out with Mark long ago as he was doing a mural. That was a blast.
Also doing some retouching for State of the Art. Very, very busy...

Buffalo Getting it's Due!

2008-04-09T18:09:00.002-05:00

Yea, it's official. Buffalo has rated #1 among American mid-sized cities as an arts destination. Yes, we've been scrapping and clawing our way up over the years, but now we're NUMBER ONE!
American Style magazine has had this survey for a number of years, and the cities are grouped in Big Cities, mid-sized cities, and small towns and cities. And we're finally there. This is a great year to get there, too- with the new Frank Lloyd Wright boathouse and Darwin D. Martin restoration, the new Burchfield Penny Arts Center, and , well, all of us great artists, organizing in different ways (myself in the NYFA Mark program) to make ourselves known.

Trimania Tomorrow!

2008-03-28T09:52:00.003-05:00

Trimania is tomorrow night! If you haven't been, it is a swirling ball of party that the Buffalo Arts Studio hosts every 3 years. We take over 5 floors of the Tri-Main building with bands, beer, food, art, people you haven't seen in a while, DJs, Dancing, poetry- you name it! Don't just rely on my limited writing skills. The check these sites/articles: Trimania , Artvoice , Buffalo News .

The Tri-main Building is at 2495 Main Street (parking info at the website and Artvoice article). The event is from 7 pm to 1 am.
Can't wait to see you there!

JUST ONE WEEK

2008-03-22T21:17:00.004-05:00

UNTIL TRIMANIA!!!!!!!!!!
Next Saturday, March 29th at the Tri Main Center, 2495 Main Street there will be a BIG party.
Been working on it since last November. I put together the most incredible Music Committee, with Marty Boratin at the helm, and booked the best bands- John and Mary and the Valkyries, Rob Lynch and the Adjustable Friends, The Stay Lows, and, the gang pictured above, The Pine Dogs. And that's just the main stage. There are five full floors of this great 'ole factory that have stages, beer, and party! All of the bands, dance groups. performance artists and other stuff is all listed on the Trimainia website, so check it out, and make your plans to go. The proceeds go to Buffalo Arts Studio, the place I have been working at for several years. The party only happens every 3 years (it takes us that long to recover), so you just have to be there!

My Space, and Other Related Distractions....

2008-03-01T18:18:00.004-05:00

Hello, all. Aside from the dis-ease I whined about in the last post, many more distractions to write about, more fun (and accommodating)...
First is my MySpace page. I first signed up as a way to communicate with bands to set up spots for the Trimania event at the end of the month. Good place to listen to some song clips and send a couple of emails, right? Yeah. I check it now at least once a day, listening to all kinds of music, finding friends from far and near, keeping in touch with some I haven't seen in ages. Wow- though handy, it'll suck some time. Still better than reality TV I guess. So far I haven't used the blog feature. I guess I'd feel like I was 'cheating; on Creative Bflo. Don't worry, honey......
Another rather welcome distraction is a blog by my niece, Kim Hosey. Called AZ Writer, she is a great writer (taking after her uncle), and has had some really hilarious posts. 'Course her last one, about her departed father, Brian, had me in tears. The brother in law that I never met. I have been bugging Kevin to go down to Arizona soon...
So many more things to mention. One thing that I won't get on the internet, however, is dinner....I'll let that distract me for the moment.

Oh, Stop Whining...

2008-02-24T14:32:00.003-05:00

OK, as a lot of you may know, as well as being an artist in the fine city of Buffalo, I also have Multiple Sclerosis. I don't like to whine too much, or look for sympathy. I actually don't do as much in support of the organizations who support us as I'd like.
Damn it, I am going to whine for just a few moments here. February seems to be a bad month for me over the years, but I am really sick of being so exhausted and worthless over the last few weeks. Seems everything I accomplish (for example, grocery shopping with my excellent, supportive husband) always requires at least a nap afterwards, or a lot of times, I only get to do 1 thing a day- like go to work.
Maybe I am not whining so much, as explaining why I am so inactive. OK, done complaining. I'm going to take a nap now....

Great Video

2008-02-17T18:06:00.003-05:00

Gee, has big ideas about blogging today. but I got sucked into reading blogs, and now the hockey game is starting, and if you know Kevin and I, you know we will be live blogging over at Bfloblog. I am going to leave you with a video from Joe McNally. In my reading today, I have read tons of good reviews about his new book, "The Moment it Clicks". It is sold out for the moment, but I checked out this video by him in the meantime...

Interesting Article

2008-02-16T00:09:00.004-05:00

The Buffalo News had a very good article yesterday about the Buffalo art scene. It addressed the event that many of my readers know: the Buffalo art opening. The perfect way of describing the shindig was summed up by Mike Mulley (see previous post) -

“We have free food, free booze and relatively intelligent women and men, what else do you need?”

That just brings a tear to the eye...
And it's so true. Also, it is mentioned that you are bound to know someone as well. Congrats Colin Dabkowski, and welcome to our world.

CEPA Members Show Comments

2008-02-10T16:12:00.000-05:00

Last night's opening at CEPA was really great. Lots of people, former students whose work I got to see, and friends to catch up with. One such friend is Mike Mulley, owner of Allentown's College Street Gallery, and his recently opened downtown Queen City Gallery. It was my first time in the Market Arcade gallery, and I have to congratulate Mike on a job well done, both with the new space, and his new book "Buffalo in Black and White". He also has a book that he is working on, collecting his music photos.
Though there was a lot of fine work showing, I can't stop thinking about one back and white print. I can't for the life of me remember the artist's name (bad blogger, BAD!), but it was a photo of falls in Yellowstone, taken with a pinhole camera, printed from a paper negative. For those of you that are not up on darkroom technique, that is a monster, and he did a beautiful job. I have NO IDEA how that didn't get a jurors award- I think it was simply the best piece in the show, both ascetically, and technically.
The evening ended up being very inspirational. Gotta get some work going. Show in the spring (more later) to think of...

CEPA Exhibition

2008-02-07T14:01:00.000-05:00

For the first time in too long, I renewed my membership to CEPA. With that, I entered a piece in the Member's Show. There is always great work from the members- an inspiring show. If so inclined to attend, the opening at the CEPA Gallery is on February 9, 7-10, and is located at 617 Main Street, Suite 201Buffalo, NY 14203. See you there!

Writing...

2008-02-07T13:17:00.000-05:00

Wow. A lot of personal stuff going on, to bring myself to a more public level.
The NYFA MARK program started a couple of weeks ago. Basicly, there is a lot of writing about the BIG issues- who I am as an artist; a work statement about my latest work. Stuff that makes you dig really deep, and, if you're doing it right, sometimes you don't pay attention to much else in personal life. So writing may be spotty, but I swear if I get some big breakthrough, I'll be blabbing it on the blog....

The Pine Dogs Are Back!

2008-01-19T19:06:00.000-05:00

I was once the promo manager for the Buffalo band, the Pine Dogs. That was actually more years ago than I care to state, and the band was around longer than that. Today, however, I got to sit through a rehearsal , and it was freaking GREAT. The songs are just still so relevant, as Americana was really just starting as the Pine Dogs were ending their first run. And the band members have been active in music since they disbanded in the 90s; the musicianship has only improved.
They are playing at the Sportsmen's Tavern Sunday, Jan 27 at 5pm. They are also a headliner, along with the Valkyries, Rob Lynch and the Adjustable Friends, and the Staylows, at this years TriMainia. I'm going to be writing a lot about Trimainia in the near future. As an artist at BAS for the past 10 or so years, I am part of the music committee for the event, so I am pretty psyched.

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T10:06:00.000-05:00

OK, a cliche, but hey, I'm at work and full of them right now....
Personally, though, I am looking forward to this new year. I feel that I am creating some of my strongest art ever. I received the opportunity to study with NYFA and other New Yorkers on writing and promoting my art. Kevin got me a Christmas gift that will allow me to learn about my computer from Mac professionals. Taking a look from the perspective of the 1st of the year, things look pretty good.
I'm going to take this moment to thank the people who supported me (mentally, physically and monetarily) over the past year. The biggest accomplishment is the show at Betty's- the series of photos from Ireland. It has been a learning experience in so many different ways, and I really aprecicate the support I've had.
Let's start this year (insert cheering here)

Be Nice to Us......

2007-12-18T18:42:00.000-05:00

Ok, I'm running behind with all of my internet to-dos (but hey, my Christmas cards have been sent!). Today, I got a chance to read some posts on Buffalo Rising. There was a great article on our friend and neighbor Dana Fox Jenkins, a talented watercolor artist. Just don't read the freakin' comments. I thought I had cured myself of the comment habit on Buffalo Rising- it really seems the bitter, negative side of everyone shows in their comments. I didn't expect that a non- controversial artist profile would set off the reaction. Here's the video- enjoy her work- it's well deserved!

Buffalo Arts Studio Member's Show

2007-11-14T10:51:00.000-05:00

I can always mark the beginning of the Holidays with the annual Member's show at the studio.
Got to see the work, pre-hanging- the work is pretty nice. And the opening is always a fun party...

November 17 - December 29, 2007
Annual Artist Exhibit and Sale '07
Opening Reception, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2007
7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Please join us at the Annual Exhibit and Sale where you will find unique and
affordable artwork, perfect for holiday gift giving. BAS was voted by
Buffalo Spree Magazine "Best place to buy cheap art" in Western New York for
2007.
This years exhibit and sale has been expanded to include former Buffalo
Arts Studio resident artists, former exhibiting artists, as well as current BAS
teachers.

Workshop for Collectors

2007-11-14T09:10:00.000-05:00

Well, yesterday, I headed out to Batavia, NY, to speak/show at a workshop for potential art collectors.
First off, big thanks to Linda Anderson for inviting me- there wasn't a great turnout, but she taped it for a future DVD, so the talks won't go unnoticed.
Second, it was at my former Alma Matter, Genesee Community College. This was fitting, as when I entered GCC in '85, I was a Graphic Design Major, and Left a Photography Major (with side-trips in radio broadcasting and theatre). Bob Cooper was the photography instructor there (and I found out yesterday he is still there), and he was VERY influential in focusing my attention (did I mean that pun?) on photography- just a great teacher.
I did have MAJOR flashbacks being in that building. It's been 20 years. There are new buildings, but the 1 that was there (the "high school on the hill") when I was hasn't changed too much. The radio station, where I served as music director, has changed- right back to the old rock format that was in place when I got there. There were a few years of "college radio" music when I was there (read: alternative for 1985). When I walked by yesterday, Kansas was on the air. Oh well.
Quite a nice experience, though. I even ate at my favorite restaurant, That Taco Place. I guess Batavia is more fun to visit....

Good times...

2007-11-02T15:29:00.000-05:00

Wow, I have to say, taping Music is Art was a ball! Big thanks to Katherine Trapanovski and the whole gang at UB that work tirelessly to get the show together. Everyone really treated the artists and musicians very well, right down to the food !
Now, I have always appreciated the energy that is created from a band doing live music- that's why I love taking pictures during a show (see www.buffaloroots.com). For a change, I got to work on art while a band is playing. Them Jazzbeards were doing their thing, and I was getting really inspired. It was an incredible feeling. I listen to music (rather loud at times) when I'm working, but the energy exchange when the band is playing right there (especially one I really like) was really different....
The show will be airing sometime in the spring- I'll keep you posted...

MIA Live

2007-10-30T16:01:00.000-05:00

Hello, all-
Looks like there's some crazy Wi-Fi here on the Center for the Arts stage, so I thought I'd live blog a bit.
They are setting up a screen behind me, so I'd better be ready to work this whole time-big brother is right here....
The band is setting up- got Kane, Mike, Greg, Kent and company- been a while since I've seen Them Jazzbeards.
They are setting up the projector now, so I'd better start working....

Music Is Art Live @ The Center

2007-10-26T14:02:00.000-05:00

I hope you can join me Tuesday, October 30 at 7:00 at the UB Center for the Arts . Located on UB's Amherst campus, The Center has been the home to the Music is Art Television show ; which has a pair of musical guests, and artists working on and a the stage during taping. Tuesday night, I will be one of the featured artists. I picked this particular night because David Kane's Them Jazzbeards will be musical guests, and well, I love that band...

I think this is going to be a lot of fun. I've been an audience member at MIA Live @ the Center- it's a lot of fun- surprisingly cozy for that big building. As for the TV show- I've seen it a number of times, and they do a really nice job putting it all together. Now I'll be bringing in my "digital darkroom" to the taping (read: my computer). So there I'll be, working like a geek, right there on TV! I guess that's better than seeing me in my "wet" darkroom (read: black and white), where I plug my iPod into the stereo and dance, smelling of photo fixer while working (holding on to secure things as I do).

IT'S HERE!!!!!!!

2007-10-15T12:16:00.000-05:00

Just got back from Betty's- hanging the show. HUGE thanks to Kathy Sherin- printmaking artist and Betty's curator. It looks great!
Now, looking forward to seeing all the friends, acquaintances and art lovers tonight. Again, it's Betty's, 370 Virginia in Buffalo, 6-9 pm. The show is up until January 6th.

"Ireland and Spirit" at Betty's

2007-10-06T12:59:00.000-05:00

Yes! It's finally here! Of course, as all showing artists out there know, this last week is where all of the craziness sets in- framing, hanging, marketing, etc. It is nice to be in the home stretch, though.
Here's the grant (read:short) version of the artist's statement:

Photographing and printing the images from Ireland, I realize that there is a vision of culture. Does the fact that ancient, sometimes mysterious monuments are standing, mostly untouched, help to affect the way of life? Has it given the population inspiration to be a more spiritual/visual people?

As a photographer, I tend to focus on buildings that won’t be around long, such as buildings that will be torn down, or reclaimed by nature. In Ireland, neither of these seems probable. Buildings are not disposable. Being structures of stone, nature is certainly present, but only as an accent. This is something in American culture that really bothers me. Beautiful and useful buildings are often cleared away to make room for big box stores and parking lots. It’s refreshing to shoot without the pressure of the structure not existing the next day.

The opportunity to photograph in that atmosphere leaves room for a lot of thought. It has helped me cement the theory that when a people lives around their own visual history, they choose a way of building things in the present that can be appreciated by future generations.

Hope to see you all at Betty's, October 15, 6-9!

Tonight

2007-09-15T11:31:00.001-05:00

Yea! A lot of fun to look forward to tonight! Now, this is the kind of thing I think Mark would have wanted. People remembering him with music and showing his art. In a nightclub with loud live bands. The Fems will be headlining, as they should, though there will be an empty place without him. Robby Goo with Amungus, The Jumpers, Paper Faces, Industry of Life Divine, David Kane- the list goes on.
I was getting my hair cut at Simon Salon yesterday- I watched him sell his last pre-sale ticket. The place was buzzing with activity- Jon is playing a huge part in getting this together. When I left, Scott Michaels from the Jumpers was getting his hair dyed......
My contribution is a slideshow made of photographs I took of Mark in the late '80s. Some of those old negatives were a bear to clean up. Kevin and I were talking at dinner last night- we think we're gonna see every one we know! If you have ever loved anything in Buffalo music, there will be something there for you. Mark would have wanted it that way....

Starting September

2007-09-07T08:26:00.000-05:00

Well, I need to get to the darkroom, and it's going to hit 90 degrees. It's going to be interseting...
I will, however, focus on the end product here- the show is shaping up to be something great. And I'm using it, among other things, as a springboard to be a photographer as a living.
Not to put too much emphasis on the past, but I've spent an awful long time doing other things that do not make me happy; things that I was not meant to do. Now, in the past week, I've been scanning a lot of negatives of Mark Freeland- photos that I took twenty years ago, for the memorial party on the 15th. Alot of those photographs are pretty damn good! 20 years old! I really need to do this. This is just another revelation of many, but I have a feeling that this one is very strong because Freeland wants some credit- don't worry Mark-lots of credit...
The aforementioned party is at the Towne Ballroom in Buffalo on September 15, starting at 7pm.
And I'll have the slideshow up on the Buffaloroots website shortly after the party.

Freeland Tribute at the Elmwood Art Fest

2007-08-26T20:55:00.000-05:00

Paul Painkiller

David Kane and Bud Redding

Ed Koban

Thi was originally posted on the Buffaloroots blog, but I thought I'd mirror it here.
Today, I spent a great afternoon at the Elmwood Festival of the Arts, culminating at the Mark Freeland Tribute. It was a fantastic time.
It included a lot of different tributes. Char read something she had written about her friend. Zilla recalled a story about how Mark truly loved everyone (and made him appreciate Paris Hilton, a great feat in Zilla's eyes).
Now, because I depend on the writer in the family (Kevin, of course - he couldn't be there, his Mom is recovering from surgery) to take notes, I am not sure what the Painkillers Freeland cover song was, but, as usual, it was VERY energetic. Paul did a heartfelt job of describing his respect for Mark.
Then, there was a very creative performance by David Kane and Bud Redding, doing renditions of songs that Mark and David did with their cover band, The Erectronics. They were joined by some talented dancers (again, missing the writer...), who I was sure Mark would really have appreciated.
The afternoon's event was closed as it started - a flute performance by Ed Koban, a friend of Mark whose Native American music inspired him.
A good day was had by all. Here's hoping this is just a taste of the upcoming event on September 15th. A Mark Freeland party is being thrown at The Towne Ballroom, featuring some of the bands from today, as well as old favorites like Paper Faces, The Enemies and The Fems.

On a Roll Now....

2007-08-20T19:42:00.000-05:00

Well, it's my weekend again- only have one last Tues/Weds weekends left. I wasn't terribly thrilled to have to work on actual weekends, but it has got me to the darkroom very consistently, which, in retrospect, was quite good to get me ready for the Ireland show. For example, tomorrow, I'll be printing (and the darkroom will actually be a decent temperature, with the cool weather we had over the real weekend). Wednesday, I'll spend some time at my friend/framer Mar's shop, State of the Art, to prepare the photos for showing. I'm getting pretty excited....

The house is in it's last phase of work. Besides less pounding and dust, this means we can start peeling the plastic off of the electronics around here. That means the promised image snippets will be posted soon. Then there's the invitation....

Toning Day

2007-08-07T14:46:00.001-05:00

The temperature in Buffalo is finally getting more livable. The Tri-Main was a lot more comfortable for working today
For those of you who haven't spent time in the darkroom, using toner on black and white prints is a good way to make them archival (read: last longer than the photographer). So, that's one of the things that I did today in the studio. The selenium toner is a pretty caustic chemical. I'm sure that I put my bare hands in a lot of chemicals that i shouldn't, but even I wear gloves for this. I waited until I had 1/2 to 1/3rd of the prints done before toning the 1st batch.
I took a look at my negatives to get a feel about the next prints I want to do. It's funny, it seems that every time I look, I get new ideas about what to choose. At the very end, I'll make sure that I get a few other sets of artists eyes on them to make my final choices.
I also did a simple adjustment on my enlarger that should make things much easier to print from now on. Simple yes, but it took me until I had about 1/2 of the prints done for this show before I figured it out....(at least it wasn't the end?).
As soon as the dusty home improvement project is over and I get my scanner out from under the plastic, I'm going to have some images up. It feels good to have this much work accomplished this far ahead of the show. Except for college, I always wait too close to the last minute to get this ahead.....
I'm thinking "Ireland and Spirit" or "Ireland and Spirituality" as a title. The 2nd one sounds a bit new agey, though. Any thoughts, anyone?

Toning Day

2007-08-07T14:46:00.000-05:00

Heat of the Summer

2007-07-31T20:41:00.000-05:00

Thanks for sticking by, friends. Tons of stuff going on in life these days.
Work on the house, which sent us off to a hotel for a couple of days- believe me, living in a plaster-dust cloud is not good.
Turned 40- getting used to that- it hasn't hit me yet....
And, as you could see from the most recent posts, said goodbye to a powerfully creative friend in Mark Freeland. So, lots of excuses.

Thing is, I've got a photography show going up in a few months. Got a LOT of work to finish. Since I named this blog Creative Buffalo, I figure that I'll document making (and showing) art in this fine town. I think, for me, that will help with focusing on this task. For the reader, a view into the creative process- the happiness, the triumphs, the difficulties, frustrations. And the little stuff .

So all, look for posts from a photographer working in her darkroom in Buffalo Art Studio. I'm gonna be real busy.....

2 Hour Local Show

2007-06-24T16:02:00.000-05:00

Tina Peel is extending her local show to two hours tomorrow night. The special will remember Mark Freeland- music and interviews. One of the nice things is that the Lake has an online stream, so where ever you are, if you have an internet connection, you can hear it. It airs at 10 pm est. 6/25 on Buffalo 107.7 The Lake.

Artvoice

2007-06-21T20:58:00.000-05:00

Jamie wrote a fine article- put a nice cover together in memory of Mark Freeland. Here's the link, but pick one up if you can. It's beautiful in color. Careful of the end of the piece- it's a bit weepy......

Thank You, Mark Freeland

2007-06-20T10:20:00.000-05:00

I was trying to describe, in my last post, about what it feels like for those of us whose life was touched by Mark now that he has transformed to the next level. I don't say that we can relate to the Freeland family, or to his life partner, Carla- I can't begin to comprehend the pain there. No, I'm speaking about the many friends that we have seen in the last couple of days at the wake and the memorial. So, I tried to relate that feeling in the last post. But Tony Billoni hit that right on the head at yesterday's memorial. We're in a vortex. Time does not exist as we know it right now.
Tony was joined by many others speaking at the memorial yesterday. One of the common, and best things that was focused on were recollections that so many people in "real life" may not have found amusing. Because we all know who Mark was and what he was about, we all took a break from our mourning to laugh. It was great to see a lot of people I haven't seen in many years, although the circumstances weren't what any of us would have liked. I think it will take us all a few days (or weeks, months) to get our sense of time back. I don't know if I even want that....
I was speaking with Tina Peel a few minutes ago. She is planning an extended Local Show next week. It will be a tribute to Mark Freeland, with not only music, but with snippets of several interviews with him that she has had with him over the years- recent, as well as the late '80s.
The show will air on 107.7 The Lake, Monday, June 25, 10-Midnight.
Thank you Mark, and all the friends that I have seen in the vortex....

Post

2007-06-17T17:59:00.000-05:00

Mark Freeland, Connecticut and Normal 1998

I guess it's what a lot of people are feeling. This weird, empty feeling we got when we found out that Mark died. I found out that he was sick a few weeks ago- wasn't supposed to know, so didn't get to see him. Then I was thinking about how long it has been. At first I felt guilty, but then I realized that I was feeling bad for ME. That he was the most talented and creative person I may ever know, and I won't have the chance to ever tell him that.
Looking at the memories and stories that have been posted by countless people (WNYMusic and the Buffalo News , even VH1), he touched so many people. I know he's in a good place now, and there are a million stories that we who are still here could tell about knowing him. And I'm so glad to have these memories. It really makes me appreciate the people in my life right now. It's sad, and yet I have another reason to thank him. From reactions of other people that knew him, I think that this has hit a lot of us in a different way than other deaths we've experienced.
When I'm listening to "Girl Power" (as I have about 1,000x since Thursday), my heart races and I'm smiling. That, I think is how the memories will feel.

Allentown's Missing Piece

2007-06-12T08:50:00.000-05:00

Well, The Allentown "Art" Festival has come and gone, always marking the beginning of summer for me. With crowds, and personal health issues, getting to the fest has been rough for the last number of years....
Except the evolution of Music is Art. The last 3 years (before this one), have seen myself and husband Kevin Hosey, at MIA from start to finish each day. One of the main focuses of our website, BuffaloRoots, is local music, and there were two days of heaping servings. Because of Robby's worldwide popularity, weeks after the story went up, there were still hundreds of visitors from everywhere in the world coming to the site, and they saw what Buffalo has to offer.
Not signs or sprinklers (which mostly come from elsewhere anyway), but homegrown music, as well as Buffalo artists (I was one for a couple of years), and activities for the kids.
Yes, it was a "stop" for a lot of people attending the Art Fest, but for a lot of us, it was home base for the weekend.
Well, finally, thanks to the grief that the Allentown Village Society has bestowed on Robby for the past few years, he has moved the MIA festival to the Hamburg Fair grounds in August. Not because he wanted to, but because of the crap Mary Myszkiewicz and AVS has put him through. It is so maddening.
I know that a lot of bloggers have touched on this (BuffaloPundit is one) . Today's Buffalo News had the traditional "Wasn't Allentown Great Again This Year?" article. Because they have become so "modern" these days, they have a blog-like feature asking people to write their "memories" of the festival.
I liked what I saw there. Lots of people writing in about the hole that the departed MIA has on their experience, how they think that the AVS has made a huge mistake. Go to it Buffalo! I'm sure the News and the AVS weren't expecting this!
There is still the musical presence of Nietzsche's on the festival. I hear they donated the door proceeds to MIA....
Sorry, no pictures for this post. Wasn't there to take any.

Artists and Models 2007-The Aftermath

2007-06-06T16:07:00.000-05:00

Nocturminal was quite the event.
The Central Terminal was an excellent choice for Artists and Models, and the artists involved certainly ran with it. The thing about it was the space. Running into friends, I found that a lot more tan I thought had never been in the building. Now, having been there for several events, noticed a big difference. It seemed as if the sentiment at other events was that this was a once grand building. What a fantastic past! Oh the things that must have happened here "in the day"!
Nocturminal had a very different feel. Yeah, there are some crumbling walls, the marble floor dull. But there was also an energy that had nothing to do with the past- where people, art and music collide. There was so much to see and experience, that you had to live in the now; perhaps look to the future.
I guess this write up is not about specific installations , although the rep from Butlex Pharmaceuticals (David Butler, above) was kind. He was very informative about their new pill "Resurrecta", and gave us a lovely flyswatter. I digress. I was impressed with many of the installations, but I just can't get over the feeling the they inspired. I don't think I'll ever look at that building in quite the same way...

Getting on the Bottle...

2007-06-02T09:15:00.001-05:00

I'm trying it. Soho Dog needs to be on a soda bottle, don't you think? Well, he's in their gallery, waiting to be voted on! I know they just finished printing a run of labels, but I don't know when the voting ends for this one (so, go soon!).

Mmmmm...Soda

2007-06-01T19:51:00.001-05:00

Have you tried this soda? I first tasted it in the mid 90s. It is really awesome soda (and I don't drink much soda...), but I have to say, I was caught by the packaging. Black and white photography, stark lettering. I was impressed. I was also thinking "My photographs belong on one of these nifty bottles." Of course, I found the soda in some out-of-the-way place- I don't remember where, and never found it again.
Until now. Out of the way, I tell you! My neighborhood car wash/gas station/gourmet eating establishment- Delta Sonic! So I buy the tasty pop, and on the label, I find that I can enter my photos to be rated by staff and website visitors for addition to the attractive bottles. My dream!
So, watch this space for a link to my photo (up for judging, hint,hint) on the Jones Soda website; I'll get a photo on a bottle!
Oh, and I also learned on the website that they carry the beverages at Target. Not so out of the way, I guess. S'pose I don't visit the pop aisle....

Artists and Models 2007

2007-05-28T20:50:00.001-05:00

This Saturday! Artists and Models has been the high point of many a Buffalo artists' spring for over 20 years. There is always a mix of the unusual art, the dark humor, the sweaty dancing, the fashion (both high and low), the drunkenness, the mystery and the who's who. And all for a good cause! This year, it will be held at the Central Terminal - one of my very favorite places in the city. One of the best things about Artists and Models is the way that the artists and organizers both take advantage of the vibe of the space that's being used and make it clearly their own, just for that night. This artist has had tons of fun at all I have attended (and I have only been to 6 or 7).
Buffalo Rising has posted a great podcast about the event. There is a guest appearance by David Butler (who I was specifically thinking of when I used the term "dark humor" above) who has been an artist in 18 of the 20 A&M events that Hallwalls has presented over the years. He not only describes his installation at this years party, but recalls some memorable A&Ms of years gone by.
See you at the Central Terminal this Saturday, June 9th!

Nullstadt at Hallwalls

2007-05-18T08:20:00.000-05:00

I just have to say WOW. Though I don't have my camera here with me this morning to upload the many photographs I took last night, I just have to put down some preliminary thoughts about last night. A full review will be on our music website, Buffaloroots, soon.
On the evening of May 17, there was a reading by Mark Nowak from his essay in the book "Goth-Undead Subculture". It is about the Buffalo music scene at The Continental in the early 80s. Specifically, the band Nullstadt.
On a previous post on Buffaloroots, I made no secret of the fact that I was a die hard fan of the band. I do feel a bit like an overzealous groupie, but as Mark read some snippets of his essay, I began to feel justification for my devotion. It started with the feeling in Buffalo at the time- the urban decay and the death of the steel industry. He spoke of the creation of art is such an atmosphere, which, as a photographer, makes complete sense.
He showed a video postcard of sorts from Steven Collins, which was great to see for band and crowd alike. SGC was deeply missed at this reunion, as he was a songwriter and his on-stage persona is unique among the other distinct personalities.
Then the band started. I'm not going in to much detail- Kevin was furiously taking notes as the show went on. The feeling was quite spectacular. I haven't heard the music in years (except watching the band's 2 videos on YouTube) and hearing it made the hair on my arms stand up; it made my palms sweat. Speaking with them later, we found out that they had limited rehearsal time, but they did not sound it. When I closed my eyes, I could almost smell that stinky old wonderful club. I guess this is what the grown-ups meant by reliving the past....
Big thanks to Donald Kinsman, David Kane, Kent Weber, Greg Gizzi, Darren Burns, and the absent yet present SG Collins for a memorable night (past) .

Past videos for your pleasure....

"A Similar Crisis" Nullstadt

"Mayday" Nullstadt

David Buck

2007-04-13T21:26:00.000-05:00

Painter David Buck will be showing his work at Betty's on Virginia Street in Buffalo. The opening is Monday, April 16 , 6-9 pm.

Hockey, Anyone?

2007-04-08T09:46:00.000-05:00

Granted, this is an arts blog. Sports, well, don't quite fit...
It is, however, a Buffalo blog as well, and this town is pretty happy right now!
Yesterday, with a win against the Washington Capitals, The Buffalo Sabres won the President's Trophy- guaranteeing home ice for the playoff run, and signifying the best season record in the NHL. All the details are well reported on Bfloblog, where many from around the country (and around the world) gather for an open thread during Sabres games. Pretty damn cool, and the playoffs haven't even started yet.
The Toronto Maple Leafs won their game last night, which means that, on this Easter Sunday, I will become an New York Islanders fan. Today only.
The picture above is from NHL.com, taken yesterday in Washington.

Spring Art Classes at Buffalo Arts Studio

2007-03-28T20:42:00.000-05:00

So, is that 35mm camera just gathering dust? Think it would be to hard to learn how to use it, with everything being so "automatic" these days? Well, now is the time to dust it off. Join me for the Intro to Black and White Photography class. Spring is the time when you want to get out and get busy! Not only will you learn how to use that camera, you'll also make prints in the darkroom.
Photography is not the only class offered, either. There's both adult and youth classes offered in oil and acrylic painting, pottery, drawing, and even contemporary graffiti for the kids. For a full list, go to the Buffalo Arts Studio website. See you up at the studio!

The Elmwood Festival of the Arts

2007-03-25T17:38:00.000-05:00

The Elmwood art fest applications are ready to go. Artists have a deadlind of April 14, so get your images together. BuffaloPundit beat me to it, so I'll leave the details to him.
Good. That means I can comment on the festival itself. When it first started, it was a much needed breath of fresh air. The Allentown fest is fine for people watching, but there are very few Buffalo artists involved. Less than a handful. The past few years, that weekend is spent at Music is Art. A couple months later at Elmwood, it is quite the opposite. Being a Buffalo artist myself, I know so many of the exhibitors. They're your friends; your neighbors.
The musical entertainment is supurb. Buffaloroots (myself and Kevin) covered it last year (2nd story on the link), and we were running between the stages, making sure not to miss anyone we wanted to see- Terry Sullivan, The Valkyries, David Kane and Mike Miskuly, etc.
The exposure to many Buffalo non-profs is nice too. Everyone from WBFO to the Buffalo Animal Shelter (complete with adoptable pets) is there with plenty of information about their causes.
The Elmwood Festival of the Arts is really a well spent summer weekend.

Like it or Not, Albright's Moving On

2007-03-17T14:17:00.000-05:00

The vote has been taken- 1,224 to 428 of gallery members voted to go ahead with the sale of about 200 antiquities from the gallery collection. The injunction to halt the sale has been thrown out by the court. The sale at Sotheby's will proceed this Tuesday.
On this blog, I have written about pros and cons of the sale, which does deplete the Gallery of some of their classic (abet not seen much) collection, but insures the future acquisition of contemporary pieces. I'll admit, I did not take a particular stand, mostly because of friends on both sides, but also because of the merits of both sides.
Now that the sale is cleared, I think the real work begins. First, let's make a LOT of money, but second is the always precarious purchase of art. The Albright lucked out with Picasso and Pollock when they weren't yet the popular painters they turned out to be. I think the bad blood needs to subside- the big job is now at hand...

Kara Daving and Becky Koenig at NCCC Gallery

2007-03-06T10:51:00.000-05:00

March 5-30
Opening reception Thursday, March 8 5:30-8
Niagara County Community College,
D building
1111 Saunders Settlement Road
Sanborn, New York 14132

Burchfield-Penney Opening

2007-03-02T23:01:00.000-05:00

Ceramic artist Bryan Hopkins, a member of the Buffalo Arts Studio, will have a show at the Burchfield-Penney Art Center, March 9- May 6th. The opening reception will be Friday, March 9, 5:30- 7:30.

The Other Side

2007-02-23T14:33:00.000-05:00

I received my regular Hallwalls member newsletter e-mail, written by John Massier, today. They have a different view of the deacession at the Albright-Knox. I'm going to copy an excerpt here:

Crazy Carl Dennis turns to the Erie County Legislature
In a scene that was not quite Kafkaesque but nonetheless ludicrous, Ed Cardoni, Bruce Adams and myself attended a session of the Erie County Legislature, which had agreed to hear the grievance of the Buffalo Art Keepers against the Albright Knox and its deaccession plans—BAK hoping that the County would halt the impending sale. Representatives for the Albright spoke, as did Patrick Klinck and Carl Dennis. Cut to the chase: the legislature gave Dennis and Co. their day in the legislature but, wisely, deferred to the Albright’s long history of professionalism, not to mention the previous opinions about the institution as defined by ECCRAB (Erie County Cultural Resources Advisory Board), AND the lawyer for Erie County—who, interesting, pointed out that the County had no hand in creating the Albright OR developing its collection, so had no real legal position to interfere with its activities.
I say the following without malice, since I don’t know the man: every word I heard Carl Dennis speak dripped of deluded insincerity. Or should that be sincere delusion? Or maybe just crapola? If he truly believes he is somehow in the right, well...sad is a paltry word to describe him. It was infuriating to hear this self-styled cultural vigilante intone about the mistaken course the Albright had imbarked upon with that gravelly poet/grandfather voice and that subtle tone of someone who knows best and is there to tell you how wrong you are. At one point, Dennis tried to make the case that the issue was not a struggle of the contemporary vs the traditional but one of people with “historical imagination” and those who lacked it. That, my friends, was the moment I hurled my imaginary rotten tomato at his big pulitzer-prize winning head.

Jeff Simon also offered his opinion on the subject. The battle rages on....

Post-post- Check Elizabeth Licata's post on the Buffalo Spree Blog, and Bruce Jackson's article in Artvoice.

Press Release: Buffalo Art Keepers

2007-02-19T21:53:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Patrick Klinck, Buffalo Art Keepers

"Erie County Legislature takes up controversial Albright-Knox art sale
The Erie County Legislature will address the issue of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery’s controversial decision to sell at auction 207 works of art from the gallery’s permanent collection at the Feb. 22 meeting of the legislature’s Community Enrichment Committee. The auctions are scheduled to begin at Sotheby’s in New York on March 19. Michele Iannello, Erie County legislator for Kenmore-Tonawanda and chair of the Community Enrichment Committee, which oversees cultural non-profits that receive county funding, has invited representatives of the Albright-Knox and the Buffalo Art Keepers, a group of members that is opposing the sale, to present their respective sides at the meeting. Museum director Louis Grachos and members of the museum’s board of directors are expected to make a presentation explaining their case for the sale. The Community Enrichment Committee was instrumental in preventing the sale of the Buffalo Museum of Science “Milestones of Science” collection in the mid 1990s. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 22 at 9 a.m. in the legislature’s chambers on the fourth floor of County Hall, 92 Franklin St., Buffalo. Buffalo Art Keepers is a group of Albright-Knox Art Gallery members who are fervently opposed to the sale led by Carl Dennis, retired University at Buffalo faculty member and winner of the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for poetry. “Selling off so many objects at once, many of which are rare, and of the highest quality, is unprecedented in the history of our museum, and should not have been done without the most extensive, open consultation with the gallery membership and the larger community,” said Dennis. “The scheduled sale has not only been justified unconvincingly and managed without transparency but (it) has also betrayed the basic obligation of the gallery to cherish the cultural heritage of our community.” No gallery members or supporting foundations were consulted during the decision-making process that led to announcement of the sale in The Buffalo News on Nov. 11, 2006. The complete list of works for sale was not announced until Feb. 13, 2007. The Buffalo Art Keepers group is currently seeking authorization from 300 gallery members (five percent of the total gallery membership of 6,000) to improve its standing as representatives of the membership interested in blocking the sale. Members can access a copy of the authorization form at ah.bfn.org/bak/bak.html. Membership in the gallery can be obtained over the phone, in person or on line at albrightknox.org."

Mardi Gras (part 1)

2007-02-18T18:47:00.000-05:00

Yep, Fat Tuesday is this week. NBC just showed some Bourbon Street and parade scenes. I know NO has it's problems, but I love that town. I was in the city for the weekend before Mardi Gras in '93 (I think) with friends; and spent actual Fat Tuesday was spent in Mamou, LA, ( we stayed in the Hotel Cazan- the white building on the linked site) which is deep in the heart of cajun country in the south-central part of the state. I swear I've never had more fun. I plan to go back when I can...
I have been checking out a lot of websites that I'll share with y'all. BloggingNewOrleans is one that I check on a regular basis- he puts both good and not-so-good about everyday life there. The New Orleans Times- Picyune also has a great Mardi Gras specific page. Finally, there is a link page, that has a ton of sites to check out. I can't wait to go back...

From the Hallwalls email

2007-02-15T10:44:00.000-05:00

John Massier sent this from Hallwalls-

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Nocturminal
Artists and Models #20
Saturday, June 2, 2007
9:00 pm to 2:00 am
Central Terminal
Buffalo, NY

In the past 19 incarnations of Hallwalls’ Artists & Models Affair, a multitude of Buffalo sites have served as the locus for temporary artistic expressions and controlled insanity: the Broadway Market, abandoned factories, warehouses, auto showrooms, roller rinks, deserted downtown malls and department stores, the Tri-Main Center, and the Buffalo Convention Center. This year’s event—officially, the 20th version of A&M—will take place at none other than the Central Terminal, architectural landmark, emblem of Buffalo’s glorious past, moniker for Buffalo’s phoenix future. Visible from miles away, the Central Terminal will, for one evening, become the hub for
NOCTURMINAL—a location, a state of being, a condition, an apparition, a temporary psychosis, an inevitably...

Nocturminal embraces things, entities, animals and situations that only occur at night.
Nocturminal blooms in darkness.
Nocturminal may lead us down the road to final demise—but what doesn’t?
Nocturminal houses those with undeniable conditions and ailments.
Nocturminal could be the extreme point or limit of….something.
Nocturminal only lasts for a limited duration.
Nocturminal constitutes the end—but of what?
Nocturminal is the dark locus for ambiguous transportation—to and from unknown realms.
Nocturminal is the shadowy conduit that transmits energy.

Hallwalls is currently accepting proposals from visual artists for temporary one-night installations to be a featured element of NOCTURMINAL. Only a limited number of installations will be included, so preference will be given to the dynamic, the compelling, the arresting, the creatively deranged, and the thematically-apt. Your proposed installation may be dark—thematically or actually—or it could glow in the dark. It’s a big venue, so big proposals are encouraged. Your proposal could include sculpture, painting, video, performance, but whatever it is, it should be devised for maximum impact. It should leave people wondering what hit them.

Your Nocturminal proposal should include:
1) your name, address, phone, email
2) a detailed description of your idea (max. 250 words) with any accompanying photos/sketches
3) an indication of the minimum space required to realize your installation
4) a list of your technical/equipment needs (if any)

Proposals for roaming performative works will also be accepted.

Participating installation artists will receive an artist’s fee to offset expenses.
Participating artists will have between 5-7 days of installation time.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Friday, March 16, 2007

Email submissions to BOTH:
John Massier, Visual Arts Curator, john@hallwalls.org
Carolyn Tennant, Media ArtsCurator, carolyn@hallwalls.org

OR mail submissions to BOTH:
John Massier, Visual Arts Curator
Carolyn Tennant, Media Arts Curator
341 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202

Call 716-854-1694 for more information.

The Sale

2007-02-13T11:40:00.000-05:00

The Buffalo News printed a partial list of the artwork going on sale at Sotheby's starting in March. I've written about this before, noting that I see both sides of this argument- the Gallery and the Buffalo Art Keepers. For selfish reasons, perhaps, I don't want them sold. I have spent countless hours wandering the Albright, and always fascinated by the antiquities, always raising questions in my mind about how the works were created, the tools and skills that were used in their creation. I wonder what questions will be missed when young people don't get to see those pieces.
Then, there is the fact that a lot of these artworks have not been out of storage in years- even decades. Is it right that no one sees them; that the money that can be made will expand the collection with contemporary work that will bee seen? After all, art is being created all the time, the contemporary showing the inspiration of the now. This argument will rage on both sides. I'm going to stand back...

Finally!

2007-02-08T22:23:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all of you that have been checking in on the site. An aforementioned computer issue, and some other issues have kept me away, but I'm back in earnest.
Now, I don't want to go on about a corporate entity, but I have to say- I LOVE Apple. I got hooked on their computers when I was working for a band; had no computer of my own. Then, I had a great experience in a Photoshop class, and now it's a no-brainer. The Mac/PC argument will go on forever. I've worked with both and, perhaps because my first love is art, I'm Mac all the way.
I do have anther reason, though. The Applecare extended warranty thing. In short, a hardworking laptop died last month. The Apple Store (or 'heaven" as I call it), worked feverishly to get him back up for me. Alas, he is gone. But Apple treated me well, and I'm writing to you again. This completely rules.
So, in all, I'm glad to be back. Don't forget, send me your stuff. Buffalo has the best we could look for in art, and I want to share...

Buffalo Arts Studio Opening

2007-01-25T15:58:00.000-05:00

Opening Saturday, Feb. 3, 7-10
Exhibition dates: February 3- March 30, 2007

Hello

2007-01-25T15:53:00.000-05:00

Ok, I have been pretty lack in posting. My computer is at the Mac hospital, and I've been working a hellish night shift. Thankfully, the latter is over, so I will be visiting remote computers and giving you the updates as I have them. Thanks for your paitence during my absence...

Spiders on Drugs

2007-01-10T23:20:00.000-05:00

Ok, this has nothing to do with art. Or Buffalo. But it is funny...

Happy New Year

2006-12-31T21:04:00.000-05:00

Funny, we don't have any plans for tonight, New Years Eve. And I don't care. Kevin and I will toast in the New Year with some hot cocoa. I guess I may be getting old or something, but nothing really got us excited about leaving the house. Having plans to go to Jen's house for brunch tomorrow, the taking in both the Wisconsin bowl and the Sabres games before I need to go to work, well, makes me want to sleep. Yeah, guess I'm old....

Reasons for Spring

2006-12-27T23:14:00.000-05:00

First, I'd like to wish a Happy New Year to all of CB readers. I know I've been a bit light on the posting, but I'm hoping you got to see our Seasons Greetings on out brother site, BuffaloRoots.
Now, the news, which you may have seen on Buffalo Rising, but I thought I'd reiterate it here, because, well, it's really damn cool. June 2, Hallwalls will be throwing their first Artist and Models event in 4 years at The Central Terminal. The event will benefit both Hallwalls and the Central Terminal Restoration group.
Many of you have experienced an Artist and Models in the past, but for those of you who have not, you are in for a treat. It's a party, it's a dance, it's a bar, it's a variety of Art Installations. It's fun, it's decadent, it's an eye-opener. And this year, it'll be at the terminal- man, I can't imagine what they are going to do with all the space, but I am really looking forward to this. I'll report back as news comes in....

Make Way for the Waterfront!

2006-12-21T00:38:00.000-05:00

I love the DVR. Last night as I was working, Channel 4 had a special about Buffalo's Waterfront, and I watched the recording this evening. It spanned the years - all the failed attempts at development, and the plans for present day renewal. I realize that here in Buffalo, the popular thing seems to be waiting until it happens, and saying that it won't. I'm not biting this time. Feel free to tell me I told you so, but there is a really good feeling in this town, and I think we're going to ride it this time. There is a good plan, and Benderson can't seem to stop building, so perhaps they can spend their energy building something worthwhile for a change. The living spaces downtown are filling up, and hell, even Dunkin' Donuts is even making their way down town. So I'm with Buffalo Pundit (he's got the drawings on his site) on this one: let's all get behind this and make it work. That Ch. 4 special was really inspiring. Buffalo is (back) on it's way....

Hockey at Barkloud

2006-12-14T23:44:00.000-05:00

Now, so far my Cafe Press store has been photography. But I'm also a hockey fan. My friend Roza had a great idea for clothing items. Together, we put a design together that will please the Buffalo hockey enthusiast in us all. Above is the picture of the front- check it out at the store!

Santaland

2006-12-10T17:09:00.000-05:00

I spent my weekend off at Santaland, the Christmas Celebration at Chestnut Ridge Park. My husband Kevin did a guest appearance as Santa, and I was there to help him with candy canes, letters (to go to the North Pole), and making sure he kept his Santa voice. Because I was only the co-star, I'll let Kevin tell you the detail on thr Buffaloroots blog. There are, however, some day one pictures I thought I'd share (day two to come). A great big thanks to Alan Bedenko (Buffalo Pundit) and Amy Maxwell (Revitalize Buffalo) for putting this together and making it work!

The following video was furnished by WNYMedia.net, and can also be seen on the Save Santaland website

Comment on the Art Sale

2006-12-07T22:36:00.000-05:00

The other morning, driving home from my overnight shift, WBFO played some of the many calls that they have received since the announcement of the art sale. Not many comments were positive...
Well, much has been written about the "deaccessioning" of 200 pieces of classic art at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Artvoice did a good story a few weeks ago.
I'm not going to get on the soapbox, except to comment on the educational angle. I remember the wonder I experienced as a kid of seeing the antique art work. Wow. How old is this? What were these people like? What kind of tools did they use? I have nothing against the contemporary works. I'm an artist living in these times. I know that the Albright wants to keep up with the times. They do have a pretty healthy endowment, though. I think the wonder of the kids that view ancient works of art. Personally, I think that starts the journey of the appreciation of all art. Sorry, I thought that's what this museum thing is all about....
So, please feel free to comment on this. Honestly, I am still torn a bit by the topic, so comments are gladly accepted (Logging in as anonymous will get you past the whole open an account thing)

Cultural Reaction

2006-11-29T21:09:00.000-05:00

The last week (or last few years, if you're really keeping track), there has been a big push for awareness of the county funding for the cultural organizations in Erie County. The budget needs to be approved by the legislature by next Tuesday; on Monday, there was a budget public hearing where representatives of the culturals were able to speak on their behalf. On Monday, Buffalo Rising had an article to make the community aware of the issues at hand. Lawrence Brose, Executive Director of CEPA Gallery, wrote a piece in the article to explain different ways to make a difference during the budget process. All good contributions, I think, to an effort to get people behind getting our culturals healthy.
The whole purpose of this blog was to get people talking about the City of Buffalo and the strength of our art community - the future Creative Class and cultural tourism. So some of the comments on the above mentioned article, were, well, sickening.
The comments centered on themes like "welfare" and the need to rely primarily on private money instead of the government, and there seemed to be the insinuation of culturals being linked to the "elitists."

I left a comment with the BR story, but it was the middle of the night when I read it on my break (an overnight shift - last I checked, elitist jobs don't have those shifts), so I thought I would elaborate.

Many of the culturals in question have educational programs as well as shows open to the general community. I myself have taught photography at Buffalo Arts Studios to adult students, young and older teens, and scholarship students who have demonstrated financial need. CEPA, Squeaky Wheel and Locust Street Neighborhood Art Classes also offer classes to children of all income levels. With the hits that the arts have taken in funding in the public school system (arts programs are usually targeted first for cuts in educational budgets), the independent art organizations are sometimes the only real exposure kids get to a vigorous art class.
College students also rely on these institutions for internship experience for credit - hanging shows, curating, etc. A lively art community goes hand in hand with higher education, and Buffalo's economy does rely on the many colleges that grace our city.

I do think that it's really important to take a look at Buffalo's future. We need to have the quality of life component that will attract and keep great minds in our town. The Center for Excellence in Bioinformatics is going to rely heavily on this to get the researchers that will put the Center on the map. Richard Florida ("The Rise of the Creative Class") has written tirelessly about the need for creative thinkers to propel the economy in the 21st century.
Bashar Issa needs to get a certain percentage of occupancy (business and otherwise) before he can begin the high-rise at Elmwood and Mohawk. There needs to be more than a casino to make entire businesses move to Buffalo.

We have this all here. Buffalo has appeared as an Arts destination in Style Magazine for the last five years, and that's with city and county funding being cut over the same amount of time. The inner city is crawling with private investment, and cultural entertainment is what many new city dwellers will be looking for. Now is the time to invest in the culturals. I believe the way Buffalo is growing, they will be able to take care of themselves soon.

Christmas Shopping

2006-11-28T01:45:00.000-05:00

Well, Kevin and I decided that again this year we'll be doing all of our Christmas shopping on Elmwood, or online . Shopping online is even more fun this year- The WNY Homeless Alliance is getting a 5- 10% donation from several online shopping sites. Just go to the above link, the pick between Petsmart, itunes, Linnens n' Things, Overstock.com, Amazon, Macy's, Toys r' us, Shop PBS, The Disney Store, Drs Foster and Smith, and Cookin' Light. I have to say, those are sites I do use- I don't have to mess with my list to get this donation in line. Cool. Check it out!

Let's get on board, Buffalo

2006-11-19T19:10:00.000-05:00

Today I read an interesting article in The New York Times Style section under Travel. Titled "Liberal Arts in Philadelphia" , it examines the art scene in that city, and stresses it's pluses in comparison to NYC., specifically it's "community of generosity". The simalarities to the Buffalo art scene are striking. The availability and affordability of space to work; the low profile of the artists themselves (while not a big plus on the surface, less pressure is a better atmosphere to create), and the lack of the intense competition, which promotes cooperation in the art community. I must say, the fact that the New York Times gave such a high profile to Philly is a sign that NYC may be seeing the good sides of art scenes that differ from their own.

Note: I found this article link on the "Creativity Exchange" blog.

Member's Show

2006-11-16T22:55:00.000-05:00

OK, gang, I'm going to remind you one more time. This Saturday , November 18, between 7-10, there is the Annual Member's Show at Buffalo Arts Studio. That's on the 5th Floor of the Tri Mail building, 2595 Main Street in Buffalo. I was there tonight, as the show was being hung, and it looks like it's going to be a pretty nice show. Go. If you're really nice, I'll invite you to the darkroom to listen in on the Sabres game (yeah, I can't help it)

Jumping The Gun

2006-11-14T21:29:00.000-05:00

OK, I know we live in America, the most capitalist place on earth. But c'mon- it's still more than a week until Thanksgiving, and we're already seeing TOO MANY Christmas ads on TV. Go to the store, I've seen X-mas trees since before Halloween. This is just sad. Please, is anyone else tired of this? If I had any christmas spirit, I think that this is snuffing out any that's left...

In town....

2006-11-13T17:35:00.000-05:00

I am a photographer. I went to Buffalo State College. My Photo Teacher, Leslie Krims, was named one of the Top Underrated Photographers in the last 30 years in American Photo magazine. Now, Les is not the type of guy who makes a big deal of being heralded in an american magazine, so I'll make a big deal here. There is a huge rivalry between UB and Buff State photo students. Well, here's out na-na nah na-na. I got an A from this guy...

Buffalo Arts Studio Residents Show

2006-11-13T01:31:00.000-05:00

It's that time again. Time for you all to come down to the Buffalo Arts Studio and see what we've been up to. And it's not a bad party, either. It's this Saturday, November 18, 7-10. Hope to see you there.

Politics on the Web

2006-10-30T17:17:00.000-05:00

Starting with Howard Dean's primary run in 2004, the internet is starting to play a big part in elections. You'll notice the Move On.Org banner to the left. They are getting concerned citizens to call undecided people from home. Not going to an HQ and spending time "volunteering" (although that is a lot of fun, and you make great friends doing it that way), but taking a few minutes to call from home. The DailyKos (granddaddy of the political blog) wrote a good piece on the drive. I don't know about you, but the direction of this country in my opinion, is sickening. I think the "Call for Change" is a good way to begin to turn this around.

A Commercial Endeavour

2006-10-29T22:53:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm starting to get my online store in order. I've been collecting some of my popular photos from back in the day I did outdoor shows, and have shot some new photos for a Buffalo, New York series I've been working on.
The store is on Cafe Press. They allow digital images to be uploaded to their site, and a customer can pick from may available items, which will be printed when ordered. I think I first chose this method for personal, perhaps selfish resaons. There is this one photo that I always wanted to make into a shirt ( Soho Dog, above), and this was a great way to do it. Thus, a store began. It has been kind of snowballing; I'm feverishly getting the Buffalo photos uploaded for the Christmas season.
So, when you get a chance, give it a look- I would really welcome any comments so I can make this accessible to all. www.cafepress.com/barkloud

It Was A Great Summer to Try Something New

2006-10-22T21:06:00.000-05:00

As summer ends (with a BANG if you experienced the October storm in Buffalo), I figured I would relate to you my time at Rivendell Recreation Center.
As some of you might know, I have Multiple Sclerosis. Not as bad as some, but it still basically sucks. There are a lot of things I thought I would need to give up- one of them being horseback riding.
I volunteered to help my friend Mar, owner of State of the Art custom framing shop, in judging some art for a fundraiser last fall, "Horsin' around Rivendell". Rivendell is for a non-profit center that teaches handicapped people off all ages and level of disability therapeutic horseback riding. I met Trish Dudek, director, and had a talk about perhaps joining up.
Now, I never rode a lot, but I figured I would not have a time to try again. But starting last May, I got on Smokey (that's him rolling around above) and started. It felt so good to be doing something that I really liked and never thought I'd get to do again. I had a few weeks of getting used to riding, and then the therapeutic part started. My balance was tested and improved, I used muscles I forgot I had (hell, it's October, I had a lesson yesterday, and man am I sore). It was (is) an amazing experience. Trish and all of the staff are great, and really supportive.
Bottom line is, if you have a physical disability and a love of animals, I suggest that you at least try this- it's beneficial for the mind and spirit as well as the body. The "Horsin' Around" horse auction is November 3 at Samuel's Grand Manor, 8750 Main Street in Clarence. It is a good time, and benefits a great cause. There will be an online action, so keep your eyes on the site...

Dog Days Fire?!

2006-10-19T22:28:00.000-05:00

I went to drop off Walker Evans Dunne Hosey at daycare this morning, and the door was locked.
I only found out this evening that there was a fire at Dog Days of Buffalo last Thursday (as the storm hit). Because the storm took over the news (and we had no cable, so we coulden't watch anyway), we had no idea. It must have been shortly after Kevin picked up Walker (Thursday is Walkers day there each week). An internet search on the story brought up no results, except a couple of pictures. If anyone has any details about this, please leave the info in the comments. We're worried about the staff and owner Susanne Harris- a friend to us for years.

Friday the 13th (and beyond)

2006-10-15T20:13:00.000-05:00

Well, that was the earliest I've seen winter in these parts...
We finally got cable back, and the Internet and phone came with it. We lucked out- there were people just houses away on our block that lost power. We just (imagine this!) read books! (I say that sarcastically-I have a job where I have had to talk to people in hurricane zones whose priorities are all messed up in a disaster). OK, we did miss 2 Sabres games, but for the most part.....
I think that weather like this, in a weird way, is really good for the spirit of this town. By this, I must stress that I know that many are still not out of the woods (Kevin's mom is staying here - Depew still has no power), and I wish the best for them. People here really seem to pull together in times like these. No matter what your differences, we are all in the same boat. Out of towners often mention how nice Buffaloians are. I think that we have an innate sense of humility that builds up during times like these. No matter how many people were watching the Weather Channel in Florida or California, feeling sorry for us (mostly laughing), they lack the very camaraderie that we have here. Oh, and we'll pick up a book when the TV is out....

Done it Again

2006-10-08T17:11:00.000-05:00

Donn Esmonde has done it again. Written something that will (hopefully) wake Buffalo out of it's sleep. This is not a "silver bullet". This has been around , in some cases, for 100+ years. It's Buffalo's architecture, and people will come to see it (if we can keep from destroying it). The unveiling of much of the newly restored Darwin Martin house is just the beginning. We have the Richardson Buildings. We have an Olmsted Parks system. We have many structures that don't have a famous name associated that are marvelous. Time to shout from the rooftops. Time to stop dragging our heels (see the aforementioned Richardson Complex). Time to stop whining when people ask questions about tearing something down in the name of "progress". Time to spend some money to let people know what is here! Artists are ready to show how inspired we are by the community we are surrounded by. Let's get some funding back. There is a whole school of thought that believes that the "Creative Class" (those people who know that creativity has a growing role in our economy) is the next step in the greatness of this country. This is the time to show that Buffalo is a hotbed of such a class. We are here! Count us in!
Wow, thanks to Donn Esmonde for getting me going today.....

Pizza Night

2006-10-02T20:27:00.000-05:00

Well, I've finally rolled myself to the couch to "rest" after being a participant in the judging process of the Pizza Grudge that Buffalo bloggers Geek and Pundit have been fermenting (big thanks to them for putting this together). The contest was held at Zetti's in University Plaza in Spamhurst.
Pundit is a big New York style pizza fan, while Geek is a Chicago style fan. In what ended up being an impromptu Bloggercon, many of us showed up with pies, and , in a very organized way (thanks in part to the great crew from Buffalo Spree), we judged the pizzas for crust, sauce, cheese, texture and toppings, ending in an overall score. We judged 10 different kinds of pizza. I had a great time, but must admit, am uncomfortably full. We won't get to find out who actually won until the December issue of Spree, but I think I have a new place for pizza out in the 'burbs

Nice!

2006-09-29T17:50:00.000-05:00

Yeah, we have one of those Buffalo weekends when there's too much stuff to do. Tonight, Mary Begley's opening at Kepa3 (below), tomorrow, Terry Sullivan and David Kane's Subterranean Puppet Show at Club Diablo (picture, above, by Jill Shanley-Morlock). And, (I know, I'm using my blog to whine), I have one HELL of a cold. Freakin' brutal! Even my teeth hurt. I will be missing Mary's opening tonight ('cause I'm so friggin' miserable I want to die), and I really hope I can make tomorrow's festivities. I'll take the Ny-Quill and see what happens.....

Mary Begley at Kepa3 Gallery

2006-09-25T20:59:00.000-05:00

Mary Begley
"Nature Scapes"
Abstracts, oil on canvas
September 29 - October 23
Opening Reception Friday, September 29 from 6:00-9:00pm
Kepa3 Gallery
31 Barker, Buffalo NY 14201
884-2606

Gallery hours:
Tues & Fri 11:00am - 5:00pm
Wed, Thurs, & Sat 11:00am - 3:00pm

The Dalai Lama's Visit to Buffalo

2006-09-19T17:40:00.000-05:00

First of all, I have to say that I did not get to go today, which makes me very sad (damn tickets and job). I am very grateful the Amy Maxwell and BuffaloGeek were there to live blog- they did a fantastic job of covering the speech.
There were/are plenty of things going on in WNY to celebrate his visit. I saw Rick Ray's film "10 Questons for the Dalai Lama" at Daemen on Sunday. Ray was there to present the film, and answered many questions. And the Dalai Lama- well, he is simply amazing. I know that he truly beleives that we are all the same, but he is my hero. And let's face it, he's very cute too- his great smile, his giggle and sense of humor- there is no one like him on earth. We are so blessed that he came here- especially when the world is in the shape it's in....

Terry Sullivan Documentary

2006-09-18T18:12:00.000-05:00

I just blogged on my sister-blog- Buffaloroots, about a movie that was done about Terry Sullivan, Buffalo's rock star. Click here to view......