biggest little art show in nevada VI: Juror’s Statement
Posted by sierraweb on March 11, 2008
Nevada Wide Open -2008
Nevada Wide Open was a great opportunity for artists to talk about the many issues that make Nevada interesting and exceptional. Coming from Washington and Idaho I had hoped to see engaging and serious dialog about social issues such as the transient population or the suburb/ casino dichotomy that is unique to Nevada. I was curious to see how the local artists would historically position themselves in a land with such a rich history. For example, I had hoped to see ghost towns juxtaposed with the energy and glitz of the casinos. With the title “Nevada Wide Open,” I was sure someone would have work about prostitution? I was shocked not one artist utilized such a searing issue. The theme was wide open.
As a whole, the majority of the entries were quite literal in their interpretation. While the landscapes of this state are beautiful, vast, and worthy of documentation, these landscapes weren’t any different from what I’ve seen in Idaho and Washington. Landscapes are overused and banal: simply romanticizing and documenting them isn’t enough. They need to be represented in a new and innovative way. Where are the casualties and the ramifications of urban sprawl? How is the desert population being affected?
In the absence of critical themes the ten awards were based on a combination of the artist’s interpretation of the title “Nevada Wide Open” and their use of the miniature scale. A few of the works that I really enjoyed were “Drive” by Gary Coyan, “Open NV” by Candace Nicol, and “Downtown Reno” by John Molezzo.
The sincere vulnerability of the artist who took advantage of the theme and scale by expressing something intimate and quiet is admirable. These types of images seem to entice the viewer and encourage revisiting the work many times. I also loved the innovative artist who used unconventional imagery, mixed media, texture, and color to communicate a narrative. Moreover, the colors and energy in the image of Reno nightlife are stimulating and intriguing. This exhibit has a great format and beautiful subtleties. Furthermore, it is definitely worth visiting a couple times. I highly recommend, and would like to see more work by, Gary Coyan, Candace Nicol, and John Molezzo.
I ‘d like to extend my appreciation to the entire staff at Sierra Arts for inviting me and allowing me to write about the work within this exhibit. I would also like to acknowledge the long hours the entire staff has put into creating this exhibition opportunity for the artists within Nevada’s art community. It is my understanding that there are many extremely talented artists who, for unknown reasons, did not participate in this year’s juried show. Healthy art communities exist because of the symbiotic relationship between arts organizations, artists, and the patrons of art.
MaLynda Poulsen-Jones
Aldema A. Ridge said
I also thank the Sierra Arts staff. As a “new visual artist” I appreciate being treated so respectfully.
Thank you, MaLynda Poulsen-Jones for your clear comments. I am a retired public school teacher who is beginning to explore her visual creative side. At my age, I really don’t have time to get an MFA, so I am reading books, attending lectures (heard Leah Ollman speak last night about the art of Victoria Gitman), submitting pieces to shows hoping for quality feedback like yours. Have not seen the show yet. When I do, I will have a copy of your notes with me to learn from the experience.
So thank you for taking your time to point me in the right direction. I will be taking up your challenge to be more vulnerable and express something intimate and quiet.