Before and After

The before and after Opening night of OpenWall: Faces and Spaces
47th Ward office Before and After OpenWall: Faces and Spaces

Alderman Pawar's vision of highlighting the works of local artists in his new office was realized through the OpenWall initiative curated by Patricia Larkin Green. Every quarter Patricia will work with a committee to determine a theme and select pieces for this public exhibit.

The opening reception of "Faces and Spaces" was held on June 24 to showcase Ravenswood Artwalk artists' reflections of the diverse faces and spaces within our community. Stunning paintings, prints and photography that include back alley scenes, Fourth of July celebrations, and block parties all celebrate our eclectic and inclusive neighborhood.  Ravenswood ArtWalk (RAW) sponsors the event with delicious treats donated from Blue Sky Inn (http://blueskyinn.org/) and Half Acre (www.halfacrebeer.com).  Artists mingled with the alderman and his staff, the local community and the media to discuss their works.

Featured Artists:  Hiroshi Ariyama, Bill Bartelt, Nico Camargo, Meredith Dytch, Patricia Larkin Green, Bill Moran, Mary Phelan, Ann Ponce, Jane Rickard, Emily Rapport, Hugh Spector, Andrew Steiner and Larry Zgoda. To learn more about the artists and the event please check out the OpenWall blog at http://openwallforartists.blogspot.com/ and leave your comments!

Curator Patricia Larkin Green said, "I was honored when the Alderman's office asked me to curate these events.  I am a fast believer that artists need a supportive community because as artists we are most vulnerable when we are taking risks.  Artists need to create, to exhibit and see each other's work.  When talking with Ameya about what he had in mind, he told me that 'this is how transparency looks to me, I want the office to be a place where people feel they can come inside and interact.  The walls are for the Artists.'" The current show will be up through September-come by and see our OpenWall exhibit!