Art Attack: “not about fame, but about community”
Fresh Paint Gallery holds 12th edition of Art Attack
Photo by Kate Ellis
Back for its 12th edition, Art Attack has once again invaded the space at Fresh Paint Gallery. Every three months, new artists take on the walls and create a whole new world for audiences. I spoke to Chani Caron Piché, the communication manager for Fresh Paint, at the vernissage about the history of the gallery and the current exhibit.
Photo by Kate Ellis
Fresh Paint Gallery is an initiative coming out of the Under Pressure festival. “It’s the longest running graffiti and hip hop festival,” explains Piché, “and it’s all about community. But Under Pressure only happens once a year. This is to keep the community and artists together.” Co-founded by one of the founders of Under Pressure, Fresh Paint seeks to give visibility to emerging artists: “We give them the tools to develop their art and allow them to get recognized.”
Everything about this gallery, first opened in 2011, is on a volunteer basis and, Piché stressed, “it’s not about fame, it’s all about community.” Painters, illustrators, street artists, graffiti artists and even graphic designers gain experience and exposure within this tight-knit and enthusiastic community. The possibilities after are endless: “They can then get grants, residencies, shows in galleries.”
Photo by Kate Ellis
Photo by Kate Ellis
What’s interesting about Fresh Paint is that the art doesn’t go on the wall, it is the wall. “It’s a way to get out of the box,” says Piché. All you need is will and an idea, then you can conquer one of the walls. Then, three weeks before the next show, you get to watch as the walls change. “We’re open during the transitions. Usually, in museums and galleries, you don’t get to see the set-up,” says Piché.
The current show features all women artists, lots of colour and lots to discover. Fresh Paint works on a donation basis, as it’s a non-profit organization. So collect your spare change and don’t miss this!
For more information about Fresh Paint and their events (including talks, markets, conferences, and other activities), check them out on social media.
