art prize (dot org)

I’m behind… way behind… in life, in love, in projects, and especially in posts. Maybe I’m far enough behind that I’m actually ahead in the next cycle. Whatever works for me, I imagine. Anyway, I at least wanted to take the time to post this, while sipping a cold beer (Sage Against the Machine, at Hop Cat) and make my case for Art Prize. I was told that the best thing was to submit early, so in keeping with everything else, it makes the most sense that I wait until the very last minute.

However I have stirred interest in a couple of spaces, so that’s good. I just want to make sure I’m finding the right fit. From the beginning, I’ve envisioned the right space for I’m one of those Americans being some kind of grungy vacant mechanics garage or a dirty exposed-brick warehouse… which I would expect there would be no shortage of these in Michigan and the area… I just haven’t done the footwork.

So this is officially putting the feelers out… I’m looking for someone who has a space or wants to create a space to showcase about 30 large photographs, that are the main body of the essay… on top of that, I’d like space for about 100 to 150 small images of garage sale signs and sale items, framed in cheap metal frames that I collected at garage sales last summer. The right space could produce a fabulous opening party, drinks and music implied.

About the project… I’m one of those Americans is a story of the culture of garage sales in Michigan… particularly significant in a time of economic downturn and recession. I shot portraits of folks who were giving up items they would normally keep, but find themselves in a position to sell sentimental items in order to meet needs. This project was mentored by David Alan Harvey, a senior contributor to National Geographic, and a full member of Magnum, the most prestigious photography agency in the world. The slideshow was featured on BurnMagazine.org, and was an official selection in the top 200 of the Emerging Photographer’s Fund. It would be a shame if the opening somehow slipped by
Art Prize.

One major pitfall… I have the body of work ready to go, but I have zero funding to produce it. I’m estimating that getting the work ready to hang with an appropriate opening reception should cost between $3000 – 4000. If you think this is a worthy endeavor, and you are an art investor, please go to my Karma page, or contact me by email. Your kindness will be greatly blessed.

I’m half way through my second beer, and that’s all I’ve got for now.