Riverwest Artists Association

2011-09-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

ArtWalk 2011 is taking place Saturday October 1st and Sunday the 2nd, 12-5pm. Please come and see, enjoy, and purchase some locally crafted art.

The Jazz Gallery's opening for the event is our annual membership show titled Circulation. The Gallery will be open both days during the event with live Jazz on Saturday from 1-4pm.

You can purchase ticket at the Jazz Gallery-926 E Center St, Fischberger's Variety store, Riverwest Coop, or Art*Bar. Enjoy a nice fall afternoon strolling through this creative community.

Namim Kim: Opening September 3rd 7-10 pm

2011-08-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

Opening Saturday, 3rd· 7:00pm - 10:00pm
At The Riverwest Artists Association Jazz Gallery
926 E Center St.
Free Admission | All Ages, All Night

Opening with live jazz musicians from Milwaukee JazzVision

Exhibition running September 3rd- September 24th with gallery hours:
Thursday 5:00pm - 8:00pm and Saturdays 12:00pm – 5:00pm

For more information:
Event Website: www.facebook.com/jazzgallerymke
Milwaukee Jazz Vision: www.milwaukeejazzvision.org
RAA Website: www.riverwestart.org

Shana Goetsch's Three Tributaries Exhibition - Opens this Saturday, August 6th

2011-08-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

Opening Saturday, August 6th · 6:00pm - 9:00pm
At The Riverwest Artists Association Jazz Gallery
926 E Center St.
Free Admission | All Ages, All Night

Opening with live jazz musicians,
The Waday 4 w/ The Kenny Reichert Quartet

Debra Field from Sojourner Family Peace Center will speak at 7:00pm

Evelyn Patricia Terry as a Portal Wisconsin blog contributor writes: Shana R. Goetsch's intense and provocative pieces, including 4,000 individual prints of row houses on one sheet of paper, challenge us to visually and emotionally connect to 4,000 victims of domestic violence.

Exhibition running August 6th through August 27th with gallery hours:
Thursday 5:00pm - 8:00pm and Saturdays 12:00pm – 5:00pm

Shana R. Goetsch's work frequently involves themes of social justice, empowerment, love, loss and bereavement. Often using words, cultural references or found objects, she injects personal voice and history into her work. Row houses are the subject of her newest pieces, and part of her continued goal to fight domestic violence pictorially. In three suites of images, Goetsch aims to portray the ...long-reaching effect of domestic violence (DV) in our neighborhoods, and the way in which our broader culture minimizes the effects of violence against women. Even though the row houses are seemingly silent and static buildings, they embody the "souls" of those affected
by violence.

For more information:
Event Website: www.facebook.com/jazzgallerymke
Artist Website: www.shanagoetsch.com/home.html
Milwaukee Jazz Vision: www.milwaukeejazzvision.org
RAA Website: www.riverwestart.org

Riverwest ArtWalk 2011

2011-07-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Each year at the height of the fall season, artists of the Riverwest

neighborhood put down their rakes and open their doors for one

of the finest walking art tours in the Great Lakes region. Now in its twenty-seventh year, ArtWalk 2011 is the first and largest in the city of Milwaukee and has spawned numerous other neighborhood artwalks including Bay View, Washington Heights and Waukesha.

ArtWalk 2011 provides an interface for artist and arts appreciators by inviting the public into artists’ studios, homes, businesses, and galleries in the Riverwest neighborhood.

October 1st and 2nd, noon to five

Tickets available during the event at:

Jazz Gallery 926 E Center St

Riverwest Coop 733 Clarke St

Art Bar 722 E Burleigh

Fischberger's 2445 N Holton

Art Camp at the Jazz Gallery: Week 2

2011-07-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

Funny thing about our week studying "Life on the River," the more we studied, the more it felt like we, in fact, were the "life" on the river :). Two words to describe the week? Fun and satisfying.

3Tributaries: Shana Goetsch

2011-07-03T10:19:00.001-07:00

Summer Art Camp at the Jazz Gallery: Week 1

2011-07-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

Our first week of Summer Art Camp at the Jazz Gallery, "Creative Reflections: Photography & Yoga, was a blast! We were impressed with every camper for their productive and creative energy. Campers stretched their physical limits throughout the week of yoga, and sharpened their visual skills during our "meditative :)" photo walks. We're off to a great start!

2011-06-21T19:23:00.000-07:00

Call for Artists at the Riverwest Artists Association Jazz Gallery

Please apply for: Figure of Speech: A juried exhibition of physical vocabulary.

Extended Deadline for Submission: July 2nd at 5pm.

“The turning of a phrase... is the use of words divergent from its usual meaning.”Stretch your vocabulary onto a physical plane, to practice using the power of language figuratively. This exhibition invites artists to create emphasis, freshness of expression, or clarity with their visual artwork and is open to all media and interpretations of the theme.

Exhibition running July 9th through July 30^th with gallery hours:

Thursday 5:00pm - 8:00pm and Saturdays 12:00pm – 5:00pm

To apply: $10.00 Juror’s Fee for applicants

$5.00 Juror’s Fee for RAA volunteers

Please send up to three images per artwork (in JPEG or TIFF formats, 300 dpi) to riverwestart@yahoogroups.com, Attn: Gallery Committee, Figure of Speech in the subject heading. In addition to your digital submission, please mail a cash payment or check payable to the Riverwest Artists Assocation to the Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center Street, Milwaukee WI 53212.

Your work will not be considered without payment receipt by June 25^th

Deliver work in person at the Jazz Gallery (926 E. Center Street, Milwaukee WI 53212) on June 23^rd from 5 – 8pm or June 25^th 12 – 5pm, with a cash payment or check payable to the Riverwest Artists Association.

Call for Artists 2011 Artwalk

2011-05-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

A community celebrating the creative spirit!

Each year at the height of the fall season, artists of the Riverwest neighborhood put down their rakes and open their doors for one of the finest walking art tours in the Great Lakes region. Now in its twenty-seventh year, ArtWalk 2011 is the first and largest in the city of Milwaukee and has spawned numerous other neighborhood artwalks including Bay View, Washington Heights and Waukesha. ArtWalk 2011 provides an interface for artist and arts appreciator by inviting the public into artists’ studios, homes, businesses, and galleries in the Riverwest neighborhood.

1. Deadline: is July 1st, 2011

2. Fees: Fees for this year’s ArtWalk are:

$5 for your artwalk site,

$10 to participate in the member show,

$15 to do both.

3. RAA will do a catalog this year with the

ArtWalk map.

4. Participating artists should send a jpeg

of their art (300ppi) before July 1st. Send

a high resolution digital image to

riverwestart@gmail.com.

Mail this application to: ArtWalk 2011

926 E Center Street • Milwaukee, WI 53212

visit our website for a printable version of the artwalk and membership application

www.riverwestart.org

PLEXUS: Exhibit of Experimental Architecture

2011-05-06T05:50:00.000-07:00

New Exhibition at the Riverwest Artists Association's Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center St.
May 5th through May 20th with gallery hours:
Thursday 5-8pm and Saturdays Noon-5pm, 7-9pm

Seared wood. Voluptuous aluminum. Sinuous veneer. Thirteen designers transform salvaged material and post-manufacturing scrap into provocative architectural installations. Sounds yummy.

For more info: www.microcosmstudio.blogspot.com, riverwestart.org,
& riverwestartistassociation.blogspot.com

Artists Leaving the Country SALE!

2011-04-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, please come to our "Artists Leaving the Country Sale" ( yes , that is us, we are going to Spain)
Cristian and I want to leave our art made in Milwaukee in Milwaukee!!!!
There will be paintings, weavings, and glass, silver and other types of one of a kind jewelry; All priced to sell!!!!!
Where: at Riverwest Artist Association 926 E center Street (Corner of Center and Weil)
When: Saturday April 30th from 10:00 to 7:00
I hope to see you there.
we will be hanging around until the summer, so we will have time to say our good byes!!!!!!!!
We hope to see you there!!!
besos

RAA ArtWalk LOGO Exhibit opens this Saturday!

2011-04-08T05:29:00.000-07:00

Stop by the Jazz Gallery this Saturday, April 9, 12-5 pm to view the ArtWalk 2011 logo submissions and cast a vote for your favorite. Exhibit up through Thursday, May 5th.

Riverwest ArtWalk 2011 Logo Contest

2011-03-28T19:50:00.000-07:00

Be part of a 30-year creative tradition! There's still time to submit your logo design to the Riverwest ArtWalk 2011 Logo Contest/Exhibition. Bring your gallery-ready original design to the Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center St, this Saturday, April 2nd, anytime between Noon and 5 pm. Logo exhibit will open Saturday, April 9th.

Find inspiration in past RAA ArtWalk logos...

2011-01-29T21:03:00.000-08:00

... then start designing!

ARTIST CALL - Logo Exhibit

2011-01-24T15:27:00.001-08:00

Riverwest Artist Association is looking for a design/logo for the annual Artwalk event. Deadline for design challenge is April 2nd. Gallery Opening April 9th. Designers will have the chance to have their work shown in a gallery setting, receive catalogue, t-shirt, fliers with use of logo for portfolio, and Riverwest Artist Association membership for a year. Please forward this if this fits into any of your programs and have those interested contact Susan Buss at susanjamiereddy@yahoo.com - she can forward past logos and ideas, and the history of our 30 years of the event.

Some ideas might include thinking about the neighborhood, walking, fall/autumn. there is no set idea or criteria.however, we would like it to utilize the logo for a variety of things, brochures, tshirts, pamphlets, buttons. a simplfied single image or icon that can be translated into black and white is preferred.

Riverwest Artists Asociation's ADMIT ONE FILM SERIES PRESENTS:

2011-01-12T20:46:00.001-08:00

All film screenings at the Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center St in the Riverwest

Family Day - Saturday, January 15th, 3pm

Social Action Night - Thursday, January 20th, 7 pm

Peace Action Center presents "Rethink Afganistan"

Good Eats Night - Thursday, January 27th, 7 pm

Riverwest Co-op presents "Fresh"

Milwaukee Night - Thursday, February 3rd, 7 pm

RAA presents films by local artists

Weaving Workshop Weekend!

2011-01-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

Riverwest Artists Association Weaving workshop weekend, January 6th, 7th, & 8th. If there is interest for another weaving workshop let us know! you can created a patterned scarf in three days. condensed and easy way to learn, class is limited to six and the cost is $100. materials not included however you will be emailed a material list, reasonable to pricey fibers. contact susanjamiereddy@yahoo.com

Kristmas Kitsch

2010-11-23T05:18:00.000-08:00

Gallery will be open and artwork on sale on the following dates: 12-5 pm on Sat 12/11, Sun 12/12, Sat 12/18, and 5-8 pm on Thursday 12/16.

Warped Milwaukee Opening Reception

2010-11-13T12:24:00.000-08:00

The Warped Milwaukee Fiber Art Exhibition opens today,

Saturday November 13th, 6 pm at the Jazz Gallery in

Riverwest. The Gallery is located at 926 E. Center St. We

would like to turn this show into an annual event with each

year getting bigger and better so come out and show your

support. We got wine and art, two of the finer things in life.

Here are a couple of sneak peaks....

(post courtesy of Warped Milwaukee)

"Aries Tjhin: Recent Works" opens tonight!

2010-09-04T15:58:00.000-07:00

Enter a world of visual enchantment and mythology, 7-10 pm tonight. Show continues Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons through September 25th.

Riverwest ArtWalk 2010!

2010-08-12T18:26:00.000-07:00

Monoprint with bike parts on canvas, bonus checkpoint activity by riders in RW24 (logo design by Maureen M. Kane)

Below are applications for the Riverwest ArtWalk 2010 and RAA membership. (Go for it! You know you want to!)

Thank you COA Youth & Family Centers!!!

2010-08-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

We thoroughly enjoyed sharing the Skyline Music experience with everyone! What a winning combination: music, art, balmy weather, beautiful downtown skyline, hanging out with friends and neighbors. Tonight, while listening to Paul Cebar-Tomorrow Sound, we made hula hoops and then discovered how our hips can move! See our final photos for the season below, and hope to see you all on the hill again in 2011!
Creatively yours,
Sue, Shannon, and all of us at the Riverwest Artists Association

Aries Tjhin: Recent Works

2010-08-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

September 4th - 25th
Opening reception Saturday, September 4th, 7-10 pmTjhin's current work deals with stories and mythologies read from childhood until present day. Fragments of words form into pictures, culling narratives and weaving them into something new, that reference the stories of different cultures. Using unconventional materials such as spray paint, shellac and hole-punch, paper is transformed into a medium that conveys narrative. Each piece contains a story within a story, where the viewer may see something full of depth, visual documentation of epic experiences translated onto paper. The result is a diverse tapestry of intricate narratives that neither end nor start; always in flux as if the artist's mind is in a state of delirium. It is this idea that fuels this current body of work.

Artist Bio:
Aries Tjhin was born in Jakarta, Indonesia in 1982. He moved to the states with his mom and sister to California where he completed his BA in painting and printmaking at the University of California in Santa Cruz in 2004. In 2008 Aries completed his MFA in printmaking at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. He is currently living in Milwaukee and completing an artist residency at Redline Milwaukee.

RW24 bonus checkpoint at the Jazz Gallery

2010-08-04T08:35:00.001-07:00

Congratulations riders! Visit the Jazz Gallery during Center Street Daze, Saturday September 11th, to see your completed gearhead canvases plus more art on exhibit!

Let's go fly a KiTE!!!

2010-08-04T07:56:00.001-07:00

Another exceptional evening on a windy hill in the Riverwest... the music of Midnight Groove courtesy of COA's Skyline Music and free kitemaking by RAA. Only one Tuesday left to the 2010 Skyline Music series, so be sure to join us next week for Paul Cebar. We will be making hula hoops!

Bubble wands & the magic of Skyline Music

2010-07-27T21:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you COA for another evening of fun in the park! While listening to the music of De la Buena, we made bubble wands and then tried our best to use them, contending with the science of homemade bubble solutions and the conditions at the top of a beautiful, yet windy hill!
Persistence paid off!

Chasing bubbles!

Faux Show Opening

2010-07-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

A Real Welcome, grass and daisies by Susan Buss

A Real Welcome greets you at the front door of the Jazz Gallery, cluing you into the fact that you are in for a real treat. The Faux Show opened on Friday with a collection of works that are notable for their clarity, yet still succeed in deceiving.

Untitled (2005),Pinewood by Scott Van Vreede

Swan, painted polyester resin by Joseph Bolstad

Photoshopped, oil on canvas by Sean Bodley

In addition to the unique collection of art, visitors during Gallery Night enjoyed the music of The Atomics. If you missed the opening, there's still time to enjoy the exhibit Thursdays, 5-8 pm and Saturdays, 12-5 pm through August 21st.

Faux Show opens this Friday

2010-07-21T06:09:00.000-07:00

For sure, you don't want to miss this one; a exceptional collection of work that plays with our perceptions. Live music by the Atomics. Here is a sneak preview:Can of Nails, Turpanoid Can, and Solvent Can
Stoneware pieces by Vijay V. Paniker

The best paper hat artists at Milwaukee's best outdoor music series!

2010-07-21T04:50:00.000-07:00

At Skyline Music last night, we were stylin' to the music of the Alex Wilson Band. Next week it's bubble wands and the music of De la Buena. What could be better?

RAA returns to Skyline Music!

2010-07-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

The Riverwest Artists Association is once again offering free art activities for families attending the COA Youth & Family Centers' Skyline Music concerts. Missed us and King Solomon Tuesday night? No worries, man! Skyline Music concerts are happening for the next five Tuesday evenings, through August 10th. Visit the COA website to see their lineup of great music, http://www.coa-yfc.org/events.htm. See you there!

Artists Call - the fo' sho' Faux Show!

2010-06-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

Drop off artwork at the Jazz Gallery
Saturday, July 10th & 17th, 12-5 pm
or Thursday, July 15th, 5-8 pm

• Entry is free to members. Membership forms can be picked up when submitting work. $10.00 jury fee for non-members of RAA.
• All works must explore the theme.
• This exhibition is open to anyone.
• Works in all media are encouraged. 2D, 3D and time based works can be submitted. Artists must supply their own equipment for showing time-based works.
• Works must be gallery ready, i.e. able to be hung or otherwise displayed by our volunteer staff.
•Contact us at info@riverwestart.org for more information

Stumulus Show bidding now underway!

2010-06-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

Bidding for art in the Stimulus Show opened tonight. Get in on the action! Below are just a few examples of the works of art available. Stop by the Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center St, on Thursdays from 5-8 pm or Saturdays from 12-5 pm throughout the month of June.by Maureen Kane

"Dreidl Drawing 4" by Thomas Gaudynski

"Unravel" by Susan Buss

"Be Purposeful" by Raoul Deal

"Boy 6" by Aries Tjhin

"Freak Show II" by Kari Couture

"California Condor" by Darlene Hagopian

"Imbue" by Shana Goetsch

"Byz-ro-main" by Mark Lawson

"Solitude" by Sue Pezanoski Browne

Call for ART! "The Stimulus"

2010-05-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

A benefit art auction for the Riverwest Artists Association

At the Jazz Gallery, 926 E Center St. Milwaukee, WI 53212

Please consider donating a piece of art to this fundraising effort of the Riverwest Artists Association.

Important dates:

Drop off days: Thursday June 3rd, 5 – 8 PM or Saturday June 5th, 12 – 5 PM.

Auction Preview Thursday, June 10, 5- 8 PM

Saturday June 12, gallery open from 12:00 to 5:00 PM, benefit begins at 7:00 PM

In the spring of 2008, the Riverwest Artists Association purchased the historic Jazz Gallery building to create a community art center for the Riverwest neighborhood. The building had been poorly maintained for many years and is requiring considerable renovation and repair. Much progress has been made over the last two years (we have new furnaces/air!) but there is still more work to be done. We need your help to finish this monumental task. Please consider supporting this project by donating a piece of your artwork.

RAA is an all-volunteer, non-profit, art organization aimed to further stimulate you, and our outstanding Milwaukee community.

The Magnificent Pierce Student Art Show

2010-05-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

May 15– June 5
Opening reception,
Thursday May 20th, 5 – 7 PM
At the Jazz Gallery/Riverwest Community Art Center
926 E Center St. Milwaukee WI 53212
"in the heart of Riverwest"

The show is a celebration of the students and art instructor at Franklin Pierce elementary school in Riverwest. On display will be a wide variety of student works including a site specific mural. In the face of MPS cuts to its art programming, these wonderful young artists continue to create works from their
hearts and vivid imaginations.

Shining more light on our subject of Illumination...

2010-04-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

...with artwork from the talented students in UWM's Visual Arts Living and Learning Community...

More photos of 'Illuminate'...

2010-04-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

...can be found in this Flickr set. Click the link below for lightlightLIGHT!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/riverwestartistsassoc/sets/72157623779598677/

Illuminating views from tonight's opening at the Jazz Gallery

2010-04-10T20:53:00.000-07:00

One young Jazz Gallery visitor seeing things differently.

Stop motion light animation by Jon T. Brown

Secret Forest by Cristian Muñoz

In the Absence of Light by Carol Knitter and Sue Pezanoski Browne

Pantoum by Ximena Soza

Electric/Luminescent Studies by Tom Galbraith

Just a Reminder

2010-04-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

RAA's Illuminate exhibition is premiering THIS Saturday at 5:00 PM. Don't miss it, as the installations will be filled with light and creativity and wonder. Come on down to The Jazz Gallery at 926 East Center Street in Riverwest! We'll be expecting you...

...and if you can't make it this Saturday, why not think about dropping in the next weekend, for Gallery Night and Day? The gallery is open both days!

Patrons, How We Love Thee

2010-04-01T10:59:00.001-07:00

I was browsing and found this piece written about art patronage. I found it an interesting read, it explains the necessity of art, that it is a sound investment. And it mentions the RAA...

http://www.fortunespawn.com/2009/04/26/patronizing-behavior

We are pleased that the author of this website, Fortune's Pawn chose last years' RAA Furnace Show to peruse for a portion of those investments. (Thank you, we finally got our new furnace!)

"Illuminate" Will Light You Up

2010-04-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

Make sure to see this amazing installation exhibition when it opens, Saturday, April 10. If you miss the opening, then be sure and check it out this Gallery Night and Day, April 16-17.

Artist Spotlight

2010-03-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

The last of our artist bios for Illuminate is posted below. Carol Knitter will be working on her installation in conjunction with Sue Pezanoski Browne.

Carol Knitter is a freelance graphic artist and illustrator. She also conducts hands-on workshops for kids and adults on everything from silkscreening to making sushi. Carol holds a BFA in Painting & Drawing and Visual Communications, as well as a degree in Occupational Therapy, from UW Milwaukee. She has worked as a photographer and ad agency art director. Carol has recently added carpentry and stereographic photography to her ever-expanding list of interests and know-how.

Artist Spotlight

2010-03-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

One more artist bio for the upcoming RAA exhibition, Illuminate...

Jon Brown is a traditional and Flash animator. He graduated from Vancouver Film School in 2006 and found gainful employment in television production doing layout, prop design, animation, storyboards, and digital clean-up for Studio B Productions in Vancouver, BC. He has done freelance animation for a variety of independent production companies as well as television commercials, web animation, logo design, caricatures, and advertising campaigns.

He is now a Resident Artist at Redline Gallery in Milwaukee where he is working on a new animated short and teaching stop-motion and 2D animation to kids.

Pen Light, Jon T. Brown

More of Jon's work can be found at: jontbrown.blogspot.com

Illuminate - Paticipating Artists' Bios

2010-03-10T06:54:00.000-08:00

Artist Bios for RAA's upcoming exhibition, Illuminate...

Tom Galbraith

An accomplished glass artist who works with neon and other luminous gases, Tom will exhibit several of his innovative signature works in the “Illuminate” exhibition. Having studied scientific glass blowing and the kinetic and luminous properties of various gases, Tom’s work is quite different than what is generally expected of neon art work. Existing somewhere along the boundaries between art and science, these pieces have an energetic sense of experiment, motion and drama.

Tom Galbraith

Ximena Soza

Ximena Soza was born in Chile in 1975, a country that was deeply troubled by the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet at the time. The experience has marked her as a person; she is now a teacher, writer and artist, whose work is always committed to social justice. Ximena has participated in several collective exhibits, showing her work in different medias, such as stone carving, metal work and weaving. In Milwaukee she has installed many Ofrendas for Day of the Dead at WPCA, UWM and Latino Arts. She also participated in the show Emergent Latinos in Milwaukee and In Borders, an exhibit about immigration into the United States, held at UW Oshkosh. Ximena has worked as a performing artist with different theater companies, and has also been awarded with
several international literary prizes for her fiction and poetry. She is currently a teacher in MPS and a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.

Sue Pezanoski Browne

Sue Pezanoski Browne is a local artist, and an art educator. She currently works as an art specialist at La Escuela Fratney, a part of the Milwaukee Public School system. Her art often involves community-based collaborations with other artists and students, in the creation of culturally responsive mixed media pieces. Sue has an extensive background in museum education, and holds undergraduate degrees in both Art History and Philosophy, as well as a Certification in Art Education. She is currently completing her MS in Art Education at UW Milwaukee.

Robert E. Koch

Robert has been a Riverwest area resident and businessman for many years. He has operated a sheet metal business and currently runs a property rental business in the neighborhood. His long time interests in art and science have brought him to the project on display in the exhibition, an installation that combines image and word in an exploration of the properties and influences of light.

Cristian Muñoz

Cristian Muñoz' artistic career started when he was still a teenager. During the years of the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet in his native country Chile, Cristian supported the student movement and the political struggle of that time. His political murals are now a part of several compilations on mural art. As a student Cristian used his art for making videos and documentaries, and has participated successfully in several short film festivals. One of his films is in the collection of The Historical National Museum in Chile. During his years in Santiago, Cristian was a teaching assistant at Universidad Arcis in several subjects, and participated in many collective exhibits. Since his arrival in Milwaukee in 2007, Cristian has been part of the show Emergent Latinos in Milwaukee at WPCA and many installations for Day of the Dead at UWM, WPCA, Latino Arts and The Milwaukee Art Museum.

(Carol Knitter, Jon T Brown, still to come.)

enLIGHTened

2010-03-07T09:48:00.000-08:00

This upcoming exhibition revolves around the theme of 'light'. Selected artists will receive installation and production assistance from UWM's Visual Arts Living and Learning Community, under the direction of Raoul Deal and RAA's Gallery Committee.

The artists chosen for their installation work to be featured in RAA's Illuminate exhibition are:

Jon T. Brown
Robert E. Koch
Tom Galbraith
Ximena Soza
Cristian Muñoz
and
Sue Pezanoski Browne and Carol Knitter

More information on our artists, and this interactive exhibition will be coming very soon! Please check back for updates.

We're Making It!

2010-03-04T05:09:00.000-08:00

Recently, Producer Adam Carr of 88Nine Radio Milwaukee started a series about art in Milwaukee. What do you know, our dear friend, RAA member, curator, and artist made the list! Evelyn Patricia Terry was interviewed in her new gallery, The Terry McCormick Gallery: Contemporary Fine and Folk Art. You can hear the entire interview here, and as a bonus, RAA member Shana Goetsch happens to be exhibiting in Evelyn's gallery also. She had a few good words to say about her own art, working with Evelyn, and the RAA. (This is the second interview snip) A good showing for our active members, congrats on 'Making Milwaukee' a creative place!

(p.s. I know the irony of posting this myself, but you do what you have to, if no one else is around to make the post. -sg)

Call for Artists Proposals (one week!)

2010-02-28T14:31:00.000-08:00

The deadline is fast approaching for proposals for our upcoming Light-themed exhibition. Installation artists welcome! Please consider applying or encouraging artists/art students that you know to do so. As stated on the form, completed proposals can be sent to the Jazz Gallery address, or sent electronically to riverwestart@gmail.com.

A Year In Review

2010-02-23T10:18:00.000-08:00

Recently, the RAA held its Annual Members Meeting. This is a chance to elect board members, check out the climate of art in Riverwest, and get together to talk with fellow artists. The juried exhibition, The Thin Line was up for viewing in the gallery as well.

I won't bore you with some of the details of the meeting (being that said 'details' were mostly about the building itself, and I always tune out when that happens, sorry). But I will say that every committee gave a brief report on their status. Grants have been applied for, so that we can possibly hire a part-time staff member next year.

The gallery committee has been working hard to bring quality and diversity to our Riverwest neighborhood. Last year, the RAA hosted 10 exhibitions in its space, The Jazz Gallery. The shows were changing just about every month, sometimes with only a week in-between, to get a new exhibit ready for the public. For an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, that boils down to a pretty serious amount of art that we handled. And, to attain much of this art, we put out free calls for local artists/art, for several of our shows last year. Additionally, we have some really great shows coming up, and an intriguing new partnership with UWM students and Raoul Deal...

The programming committee will most likely still partner with other local organizations to continue bringing free art activities to children and families. Last summer, The RAA partnered with COA, and Skyline Music Festival, as well as RW24. We also made art with the many children attending The Summer of Peace Festival. We would like to continue in the direction of partnership, and possibly add new venues to our summer, community programming list.

Of course, the bottom line, as with all meetings, is that the RAA needs more support. We need more funding, and we always need volunteers...to be on committees, work with children or community programming, to gallery-sit, and a variety of other activities, such as building repairs. So if you are handy with tools (your hands or your brains), we could use you, and would be so glad to get the help.

Please consider donating just one afternoon of your time to the Riverwest Artists Association. Or, if you seek a deeper involvement in the arts in your local community, please consider joining the Board of Directors, the gallery committee, the programming committee, or the building committee...all could use your help.

Other than that, we talked, and laughed and looked at some really excellent art at the Jazz Gallery...we're the RAA, and this is where we live!

The Jazz Gallery, RAA Community Art Center is located at 926 East Center Street, in the heart of Riverwest, Milwaukee.

The Thin Line (between love and hate) Opening

2010-02-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

Artist Gary Niebuhr and Board Member Darlene Hagopian

The magic happens once again. Thanks to the many talented artists for putting themselves on the line (so to speak) by contributing to the depth and breath of this show. The many visitors to the Jazz Gallery for the Thin Line opening on February 13th (including some V-day dates, I suspect) were not disappointed. Thanks also go out to the dedicated RAA volunteers for collectively curating another excellent show! Love is in the air.

Cut paper work by Aries Tjhin in foreground

A few more examples of art in the exhibit:

Shana R. Goetsch

Deer Hart (Dear Heart) - Warm

Watercolor, transfer, found object, collage

Kari Couture

Just Between You and I

Mixed media on plywood

Artists' Call

2010-01-13T21:26:00.001-08:00

The Thin Line

A thematic exhibition that explores the infamous line between love and hate.

-All works must explore this theme.

-This exhibition is open to anyone.

-Works in all media are encouraged. 2D, 3D and time based works can be submitted. (Artists must supply their own equipment for showing time based works.)

-Works must be gallery ready, i.e. able to be hung or otherwise displayed by our volunteer staff.

-All works must be dropped off at The Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center St. in Riverwest.

-Drop off your work either Thursday, February 4, 5-8PM, or Saturday, February 6, 12-5PM

-Jurying will be on Sunday, February 7 (all artists will be notified soon afterwards)

-The exhibition will run February 13 – March 11, 2010.

The Riverwest Artists Association will take a 25% commission on any works sold.

The Riverwest Artists Association reserves the right to exclude any work from the exhibit for any reason.

info@riverwestart.org

RAA Upcoming Exhibit-Hobby Fun For Everyone!

2009-10-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

Come and get it, November 14 - December 16, 2009
RAA's The Jazz Gallery hosts
Hobby Fun For Everyone!
...and we really mean it.

(click the image below for more detailed information)

Our Pick of Pics-30 Years of Dialogue

2009-10-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

ETA: We closed this show early, because it was getting in the way of our furnace guys. We really needed that furnace, so we did whatever they wanted. Also, we didn't want to ruin the artwork. Hope you saw the show, otherwise, here's your only option...

Because this exhibit premiered on ArtWalk, and I was gone most of those two days doing my own art thing, this may very well be the shabbiest "Our Pick of Pics" that I ever put out. I'll still try to amuse y'all though. 30 Years of Dialogue is our Annual All Members Show, with 30 artists participating in a variety of media. As you can see, I somehow didn't manage to catch a crowd.

Here is some of the work you will see at this exhibit...

It's still up until Saturday, November 7th...

We are open Thursdays, 5-8p and Saturdays, 12-5p...

Randomly, here is a photo of my dad looking at the exhibit during ArtWalk...

Unfortunately, on Gallery Night, we closed the building very early because of lack of people...

However, before we closed, John and I took pictures of each other, in order to simulate the art-viewing experience for those of you at home. Here's me...

And here's John. Yes, we are dorks. What of it?...

30 Years of Dialogue...

Please catch us for the next show, which opens on November 14th!

Remembering Elizabeth Birr

2009-10-11T05:38:00.000-07:00

Sadly, we recently lost one of our own...the young, talented, and vibrant Elizabeth Birr.

We hope that your soul is soaring to new heights...

You are missed.

ETA: A memorial for Liz has been started on the side of The Jazz Gallery on Weil Street. Please feel free to stop by and light a candle in her honor.

HOBBY FUN FOR EVERYONE! call for artists

2009-10-09T08:39:00.000-07:00

Have some ideas that break the boundaries between art and craft? Then click on this call!

We are looking for an intelligent mind, a sense of humor, and a free and willing spirit (also, some craft glue). Your due date is November 7th, so get out your trinkets and join us in the fun!

ArtWalk 2009 Info

2009-09-28T09:27:00.001-07:00

Here's your information...

...and with approximately 30 artists participating in 30 Years of Dialogue, the Annual Members Show, this event can't be beat! Would you like to read more?

Riverwest Artists Association’s ArtWalk 2009 marks the 30th Anniversary of Wisconsin's oldest and largest walking art tour. Conceived in 1979 in collaboration with the Milwaukee Art Museum as a way to introduce the public to the way artists live and work, ArtWalk gave birth to the Riverwest Artists Association.

On Saturday & Sunday, October 3rd & 4th from 12 noon to 5 pm, artists open their homes, studios, galleries and businesses, inviting the public to see how artists live and work. There is also an Art Party at the Art*Bar October 3 from 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM.

Riverwest Artists Association’s ArtWalk 2009 features over 65 established and emerging visual artists at 22 sites throughout Riverwest including the RAA Annual Membership Show, 30 Years of Dialogue, at the Jazz Gallery. Sue Pezanoski Browne will be doing a Make and Take Musical Instruments workshop and a Sound Garden Folk Art Installation and Sharon Giesfeldt Van Ruiswyk will be doing Make and Take Origami workshop at the Jazz Gallery. Limited Edition ArtWalk 2009 T-shirts, designed by artist Sharon Giesfeldt Van Ruiswyk to celebrate our 30th anniversary, are available in both men’s and women’s styles for only $10 at the Jazz Gallery and the Art*Bar.

TO PARTICIPATE
For just $3 for adults or $2 for seniors, students and children, patrons get a button and map good for the whole weekend. Buttons and maps will be available at the following sites during ArtWalk weekend: Art*Bar (722 E Burleigh); Riverwest Food Co-op (733 E Clarke); and the Jazz Gallery (926 E Center St).

ABOUT RIVERWEST ARTISTS ASSOCIATION (RAA)
As an all-volunteer organization dedicated to supporting artists and connecting artists with the community, we are proud to produce Wisconsin’s largest and longest-running neighborhood art tour. Thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers, members and friends in the community, RAA’s signature event, ArtWalk, opens the work spaces and the art work of neighborhood artists to the community.

Get Ready For ArtWalk 2009

2009-09-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

ArtWalk is coming, Saturday and Sunday, October 3-4, 2009, 12-5pm!

To get you warmed up, these are photos taken at one of the outdoor sites from last year's ArtWalk.

Organized by the Riverwest Neighborhood Association, the Art in the Alleys Project (2008) garnered much attention from our RAA artists and members, as well as the local government. (The event/issue was later included in a local debate about graffiti, murals and public art in Milwaukee.) Participants shared their spaces, time and artistic talents, all for the sake of safer public alleyways, and a more beautiful environment for all of the people living in our Riverwest neighborhood. It was a grassroots effort with ART as the main force! For more information on the Art in the Alleys Project (2008) please visit the website here. More ArtWalk fun and helpful information is coming...keep your eyes peeled.

Chris Christie and Vanessa Andrews

Artist Tia Richardson

Artist Shana R. Goetsch

Artist Juliet Jaeger, in front of one of her murals

Maureen M. Kane

Juliet Jaeger

Brian McGinnis

Kara Mulrooney and Kristopher Pollard

Shana R. Goetsch

Jessica Laub

Our Pick of Pics+Video - Center Street Daze 2009!

2009-09-16T05:28:00.000-07:00

The festival started out with the fun of the annual Cart Race. (Carts must be pushed or pulled by human means)

Aw. The agony of defeat...

Only the best dad ever...

Yes, he's pulling the 'Fart Cart' for the youngest of entrants...

This one was an interesting, bulky, choice...

Later, out in the crowd, the tiniest of kids was riding the tiniest of bikes...

Everyone was having fun with their families...

And people were very busy filling the giant chalk art piano keys, outside The Jazz Gallery!...

This lovely lady said we 'made her day'...

More awesome dads were on the scene...

This joker was our human edition of 'The Exquisite Corpse' chalk activity...

Cool...

So what was the RAA Board up to on Center Street Daze, you might ask?
WELL, we were all over the place.

Darryl and Mark pushed our cart in the race, and Darlene filmed the event...

Sue was on the roof with the neighbors, getting a bird's eye view...

Julie was in the kitchen helping me prepare the food...

After the Cart Race, Sharon was inside The Jazz Gallery, doing a make-and-take book demo with the kids...

Maureen was working hard on the chalk art outside the gallery...

And I was organizing/supervising/participating in the chalk art, giant piano keyboard, with Sue all day long...

I also shot this video of the finished product...

Love it!

Our Pick of Pics- P.S. Exhibit

2009-09-12T19:32:00.001-07:00

P.S Exhibit started off kind of slow, I'm not going to lie...

(I took this photo of our neighbor's cat, from inside The Jazz Gallery.)

Even so, we got a lot of foot traffic, and the message wall was a hit!

Rabbi, The Flower Guy set us up real well...

and then 4th Street Elevator arrived, and everything changed...

Several people brought out their own instruments to play along...

Elmo sat still and was quiet. (!) Seriously, these guys were magic...

Spontaneous dancing occurred...

in between the Pillars of Peace...

Finally, a packed gallery...

That's what we like!

This exhibit is up until September 26th, 2009.

A few more photos of this exhibit, and a video are located here.

RAA DIALOGUE SERIES-Heather Eiden

2009-09-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

The RAA Dialogue Series continues

Artist Interviews Artist
Highlighting RAA Member Heather Eiden
As Interviewed by Board Member Sue Pezanoski Browne

What artmaking have you been up to this summer?

I am working on a show, called "The Art of Flow", that will be exhibited at Danceworks in April 2010. I have been teaching watercolor privately. My grandma was a master watercolorist and she tried to teach me what she knew. I love seeing my students grow and gain confidence in their style.

What influences do you see in your own art?

I work with color, pattern, and nature for inspiration.

The practice of yoga is an important part of your life. How do your yoga and art practices relate to one another?

I feel the relation between art and yoga is sculptural. Often when I teach yoga, I see the human body as a living sculpture moving through space with grace. I enjoy hands on adjustments and helping people with correct alignment in the poses. I use my training as a visual artist to see forms correctly. The negative space is as important as the positive. There is a Yin and Yang in yoga that works with this duality for the mind, body and spirit connection. Yoga means Union and, at the deepest level, I hope for people to experience this through my art.

You have had opportunities to travel to many interesting places. How have your specific travels influenced your artmaking?

I have been fortunate with travel. In South America, I was inspired by the fabric art. I was inspired by tile work while traveling through Mexico, and in Spain by the mosaics of Antonio Gaudi. While on a scholarship from UWM, I studied the woodcarving and batik in Indonesia. While touring with my students in France, I was inspired by the intense light that made objects seem to dance. Whenever I am traveling, I work daily in my sketchbook.

Where did you study art?

I studied at UWM, and I feel it was a classical training. I have taken many outreach courses at MIAD. I attended Anderson Ranch Art School and had a scholarship for Arrowmont. I am now working on a master’s degree in Art Education at Concordia.

Do you experience any particular obstacles in maintaining the time and space in your life as a practicing artist?

Not in the past, but now that I’m in graduate school, I do find it more challenging. I would say my current studio practice is in transition. I would like to work with other artists in a studio setting. I imagine that we would have common interests, but ideally different styles.

How did you first become involved with The Riverwest Artists Association?

RAA was introduced to me by friends. I lived across the street from RAA when it was located on Fratney St. The center was vibrant, exciting and social. Darlene Hagopian invited me to be a board member, as I remember.

What is your earliest experience in which you saw yourself as an artist?

I felt I was an artist around age ten but rejected it. I told my friend I would never be an artist because I didn’t want to starve to death.

What do you hope people see in your art?

I would like my art to be a balancing agent.

Heather Eiden and Sue Pezanoski Browne
(Heather's ceramic work, pictured far right)

More of Heather's work can be seen at The Jazz Gallery throughout our current show, P.S. Exhibit, and during the upcoming reception on Center Street Daze, starting at 1p.

P.S. And It Was Fun

2009-08-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

It was an odd night. Not our usual crowd, but we made a lot of new friends during P.S. Exhibit's opening night. This isn't our official "Our Pick of Pics" post (which will be later), but something new....I shot a quick video!

One thing I neglected to capture though, was the 'Message Wall', depicted in the first two photos. It was a very popular, interactive part of our exhibit. The viewer helped us make art by writing a message to the world, placing it in a bottle, and then hanging it on our 'Message Wall'. This piece, along with the 'Growing Wall', will actually be changing significantly over the course of the exhibit.

We also have a few photos after the video, of the gyspy swing ensemble we featured from 7-9p, 4th Street Elevator. Such a good time, they were! (you will see how much, once I do post more photos.) We loved having them play at The Jazz Gallery! Make sure to check them out, on that link above. They are a very impressive live act.

Now, let the show begin!

Here we see people contributing to the 'Message Wall'...

And here's a shot of our friend Elmo doing the same. He's a regular fixture 'round these parts...

The video...

4th Street Elevator plays The Jazz Gallery...

And they play it while being so dapper...

Thank you guys. You made our night!

Sneak Peek

2009-08-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

P.S. Exhibit ~ Planting. Seeds. Cultivating Conversations in Art

(Blurry shots for enticement, you know the drill.)

Here we are arriving at the gallery with all of our stuff literally hanging out of the car. Sue made me drive all over Riverwest like this too. Ha...

Sue is a modern day Rosie the Riveter, she knows her power tools, and her materials, and can improvise well...

The new incarnation of our 'Pillars of Peace'...

Look at this...I GREW things, and in just three days...

Come to the opening reception this Saturday, starting at 5p. Live music, food and of course, conversation.

Opening This Saturday ~ P.S. Exhibit

2009-08-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

Come down to RAA's The Jazz Gallery this Saturday, September 29th, for the opening reception of our newest show, P.S. Exhibit ~ Planting.Seeds. Cultivating Conversations in Art. The exhibit starts at 5p on Saturday and runs through September 26th, 2009. A special reception for children and families will be held at Center Street Daze festival, September 12th at 1p, with free outdoor art activities at the gallery.

Also, playing the opening from 7-9p
at the Jazz Gallery this Saturday, will be
4th Street Elevator, Gypsy Swing Ensemble.

Our Pick of Pics/Memorial Exhibit For George McCormick

2009-08-22T19:59:00.001-07:00

Tonight, we celebrated the life and work of George Ray McCormick Sr. Come take the journey through his work with me.

The never-before-exhibited rooster series, and many dolls...

More details on the dolls...

Some of George's woodcut prints...

The famous coconut bug...

Even more prints...

There were seriously, a lot of people in The Jazz Gallery tonight...

Evelyn had a few words about George, and others read poems...

Darryl Jensen, our VP, made this (gorgeous) limited addition print of George from the photo a few posts below...

Evelyn, and George's son very much appreciated it...

Adam Carr Interviews Evelyn Patricia Terry

2009-08-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

...at The Jazz Gallery! I was lucky enough to be privy to such an event, but it's mainly because everyone else has a full-time job. Either way, I'll take it, because it was very interesting watching an audio interview happen. I was able to see more than anyone else will, hearing it.

You can find the entirety of Adam's audio interview here, on JSonline's Art City Blog:
Adam Carr and Evelyn Patricia Terry talk about African American artists

Please click the link above, and here are a few of the shots that I took during the interview:

You can actually hear my camera 'chirping' a few times during the interview. Yep. I never stop.

Bayshore Towne Center With RAA

2009-08-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

Our scheduled artists are starting at 10am this Saturday, the 22nd.

P.S. Exhibit

2009-08-14T08:03:00.001-07:00

Come see the show...

Slideshow for COA Skyline

2009-08-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

Have you seen it? Well here it is: http://www.flickr.com/photos/riverwestartistsassoc/sets/72157621009901379/show/

George Ray McCormick Sr.

2009-08-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

In loving memory of our friend and fellow artist, George Ray McCormick Sr.

The RAA will be holding a special showing for George's work on Saturday August 22, 2009, on the final day of our current show, 'The Permission To Paint Please! Tribute Exhibition'. Starting at 4:00 pm, you can purchase his small pieces, and help us celebrate his life.

The Jazz Gallery will be open 12-8p on August 22.

Our Pick of Pics (President's Edition) - TPTPPTE

2009-07-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to John Richards, our prez, for sharing these very interesting and cool shots of the opening of 'The Permission to Paint, Please! Tribute Exhibition'. The show premiered this last Friday, on Gallery Night in Milwaukee.

here's some mingling and some art...

a view of some of the great art we have at this exhibit...

this piece (and the photo) is very sanctuary-esque...

That's it. John has simply outdone himself with this photo...

a behind the scenes look...

Come see this fantastic show, it's open until August 22, 2009.

and if you don't, John will make this face at you...

('tongue' made from an orange pepper piece...you've gotta love his inherently grumpy creativity!)

Sneak Peak

2009-07-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

of The Permission to Paint, Please! Tribute Exhibition
Join us, for the opening Reception at 5:00 pm on Gallery Night!

What could be in all of these wrapped up packages!?!?

Come see the show to find out. July 24-August 22, 2009.

A Great Review

2009-07-12T12:37:00.001-07:00

The Jazz Gallery is featured in this season's Gallery Night and Day brochure...

You will, of course, be stopping in to see us now...right?
The RAA's new show, curated by Evelyn Terry, premiers on Gallery Night!

The 'Permission to Paint, Please!' Tribute Exhibition

2009-07-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Coming right up on Gallery Night!

Photostream for COA Skyline Music

2009-07-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

The RAA was there! And we will continue to be there for the next five weeks. Tuesdays at Kadish Park from 5-8p! Don't miss all of the free art-making activities for children and families that are coming up...

Here is the flickr photostream/slideshow.

Our Pick of Pics - (re)cycle (re)visit

2009-07-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

Welcome to (re)cycle (re)visit, an exhibition of found objects and ephemera...

some of these objects even hung on the wall...

our RAA Dialogue Series, first interviewee, Jamie Lee Ohland was in attendance...

some of Jamie's current work is up at the gallery...

this is woven with human hair...

fishies made by Fratney School's 2nd grade class...

you've always gotta check things out more closely...

Sharon gets some lessons with this home-made instrument...

it was all fun and games (really)...

we had some nice jazz, with Dave Glassner playing for us...

nothing better than smooth jazz on a sizzling hot night...

There is only one more week for this exhibit...come see it before it closes Saturday the 11th. The Jazz Gallery is open Thursdays 5-8p and Saturdays 12-5p, and is located at 926 East Center St. in Riverwest.

p.s. don't you dare miss seeing this cool elephant...

Slideshow for RAA's (re)cycle (re)visit

2009-07-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

Get it here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/riverwestartistsassoc/sets/72157620153264701/show/

RAA DIALOGUE SERIES - Jamie Lee Ohland

2009-06-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

Artist Interviews Artist
Highlighting RAA member JAMIE LEE OHLAND
as interviewed by Board Member Shana R. Goetsch

Front to Back, Jamie Lee Ohland

Jamie, could you tell us briefly how you got involved with the Riverwest Artists Association?

Long story short: I’ve known Mark Lawson for about half a decade and worked in the MIAD gallery for many years, as well as, helping out with other art events throughout the Milwaukee area. I very much enjoy hanging art shows, getting to know all the artists and those in attendance, installing the work so every piece looks its best, basically any activity involving making a gallery run interests me! So, when the opportunity came to help start the RAA inaugural show I offered my services.

Could you give us a statement about or an explanation of your current work?

This could be a very long answer... I usually work on multiple projects all at once. Some projects could take a couple years to complete certain thoughts while I finish several smaller, albeit just as important ideas, within that time frame. I rarely set personal goals with time lines in mind because I feel that hinders my creative process and the natural pace of things. With that stated, the work I am currently showing at the RAA is a very recent series of drawings, drawn out of the pure need to draw. The selected works out of the series of 120 took place within a pivotal week for me in early June. At this time, my garden started sprouting and while I attended to these tiny shoots of green I was able to recognize just how much I needed to tend to within myself, those darker corners I had purposely forgot about in order to pursue/maintain a failing relationship. With that realization in mind I wanted to capture those small moments of joy within my garden and celebrate them! I also needed to address the darker corners, which are represented by blind contours I drew while watching the black and white version of 'The Three Penny Opera' in German, a story I feel is quite timeless especially when applied to our current situation in the United States.

Room, Jamie Lee Ohland

Speaking of ‘timelessness’, how does your work differ, if at all, from the art you have created in the past?

My art has always been a representation of my thoughts, feelings, and observations of the time in which I created the work. If you can imagine all the thoughts one can accumulate over a lifetime there is an exciting palette to work with. I am just now allowing myself the right and pleasure to speak the truth even with my seemingly smaller observations. For a long time I was afraid I would be judged in reaction to my work, but then what benefit would it bring anyone to keep anything relatable behind closed doors? How can anyone learn without sticking to your convictions or making leaps of faith? I try to keep this in mind with everything I do.

Sam, Jamie Lee Ohland

What is your background in art? When did you get your start/inspiration?

My mother started me out by putting a pencil in my hand and guiding my hand over pieces of typing paper. Eventually, after many scribbled ramblings I started telling my mother what I was drawing. My mother kept my first drawings from when I was two years old. One drawing was of my grandpa’s hummingbird feeder which I drew the house in the background and the other was of a turtle. I still have a deep affinity for birds and turtles, and I never stopped drawing.

Mother, Jamie Lee Ohland

What is a typical day in the studio for you? How do you work? Where do you work?

I don’t really have a studio and I rarely have a whole ‘day’ to work in it. My work usually comes with me in the form of sketchbooks, small crocheted lace forms, smaller wood panels, or performances throughout the city. I create art on my way to work in the morning or while waiting for the bus, while drinking a beer by myself at one of numerous local establishments, while walking by the lake or in my garden, while making breakfast on Saturday mornings, anywhere and everywhere! Someday when I make the big bucks I would like to have a studio but I probably will just use it for storage.

Sam, (work in progress) Jamie Lee Ohland

Your proudest artistic moment...What has happened (moment/event) that made you finally think, “Yes, I am an artist!”?

As a kid I never questioned if I was an artist or not, I just knew I loved the art of making and presenting work. In middle school I didn’t have an art program so I worked vigorously on drawings and designs all the time just to keep sane. In high school when all depressive hell broke loose, I needed art to keep me alive. It never occurred to me that making art could also be a college focus or career, so when my teacher Mrs. Frederick told me they have higher education for people like me I couldn’t believe it. I nervously applied to several schools and was accepted. The reality that I was going to school for something I really wanted to do didn’t set in until my senior art show in high school when I witnessed a few people I never met before cry in front of my work. It was at that very moment in which my core was shaken and I realized that I directly had an effect on people using my primary language, visual art. I have felt blessed ever since.

Narcissus and Gold Man, Jamie Lee Ohland

What is one question that you always wished someone had asked you about your work? (and then give us that answer please)

Good question! I don’t I have a general answer, perhaps I have questions for specific pieces. I have been adding to a body of work called, Deep Sleep While Flowers Creep, since 2006 and most if not all the work is heavily steeped in symbolism. I took great care into researching the symbolic significance of specific animals, plant folklore, and the use of medicinal herbs, all of which I used to create ‘portraits’ of those whom I feel closest to. There often were times when I wished people would ask me what that flower meant or why I chose to represent such person as this animal and so on because everything even down to the colors (sometimes size of the work) would characterize the people I was portraying. I wanted to tell them all these stories I shared with the people I was painting, drawing, and crocheting. I wanted to tell them why my mother was represented as a single, bent over honeysuckle on a field of pale yellow. I am still delightfully surprised that even when people don’t know exactly why I chose what I did they are still able to feel for what I was going for. This occurrence is always deeply satisfying.

Leemer Cat Howls at the Moon at Night, Jamie Lee Ohland

Artists Jamie Lee Ohland and Shana R. Goetsch both attended the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, and received their bachelor degrees, in May of 2008.

Jamie's current work can be seen at The Jazz Gallery, along with our NEW show, (re)cycle (re)visit.

(re)cycle (re)visit Milwaukee!

2009-06-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

Opening night is this Saturday the 20th!
The Jazz Gallery is located at 926 East Center St. in Riverwest
Come see this excellent exhibit
Reception at 6PM on 06/20/09
Don't miss it!

stop by the gallery this Thursday for a sneak peek of us hanging the show!

LAST CHANCE CALL

2009-06-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

Call for Artists!
Submit your recycled fine art to us, starting this Wednesday 5-8p. We will continue to take submissions on Thursday 5-8p and Saturday 12-5p. There is no fee for your entry.

Need further details on submissions? Just scroll down and click on the Call for Artists...(call originally posted on May 1st)

This show will be up starting on June 20, 2009!

Our Pick of Pics, Memorias del Olvido

2009-05-17T06:15:00.000-07:00

The show started off strong. We had many art patrons show up right away!

People always looked closer at the weavings, I will simulate this for you...

Ximena and Cristian talk to our VP...

Art patrons discuss art. This is a lovely photo...

There is an installation piece on the floor...

A close-up, to show you the details...

If you haven't seen enough, please consider coming down to see this show...

Memorias del Olvido is showing through June 13th, 2009!
The Jazz Gallery is located at 926 E Center St. in Riverwest.
We are open Thursdays, 5-8p and Saturdays, 12-5p.

These photos, AND MUCH MORE can all be found in our Flickr slideshow.

p.s. John crafted this delightful fruit bowl...

A Sneak Peek...

2009-05-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

Don't ya just love my sneak peeks? They are always appropriately blurry and far away...for enticement purposes. Does it work?

Come see this show on Saturday May 16th at 6pm for the opening reception.

Cristian Muñoz y Ximena Soza at the Jazz Gallery

926 E Center St in Riverwest.

Check Out This Event!

2009-05-05T11:20:00.000-07:00

click the pic for a larger view....and come see this show, starting on Saturday May 16th!

Cristian Muñoz y Ximena Soza

2009-05-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

May 16th - June 13th at The Jazz Gallery

Memorias del Olvido
Memories of the Forgotten

(please enjoy the artist bios we have, for the two artists appearing in our next show)

Cristian Muñoz ‘s artistic career started when he was still a teenager. During the years of the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet in his native country Chile, Cristian supported the student movement and the political struggle of that time. His political murals are now a part of several compilations on mural art. As a student Cristian used his art for making videos and documentaries, and has participated successfully in several short film festivals. One of his videos is in the collection of The Historical National Museum in Chile. During his years at Universidad Arcis in Santiago, Cristian was a teaching assistant in several subjects and participated in many collective exhibits. Since his arrival in Milwaukee in 2007, Cristian has been part of the show Emergent Latinos in Milwaukee at WPCA and many installations for Day of the Dead at UWM, WPCA, Latino Arts and The Milwaukee Art Museum. He also assisted Raol Deal in the multicultural exhibit Implosion in UWM, 2008.

Ximena Soza was born in Chile in 1975, a country that was deeply troubled by the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet at the time. The experience has marked her as a person; she is now a teacher, writer and artist, whose work is always committed to social justice. Ximena has participated in several collective exhibits, showing her work in different medias, such as stone carving, metal work and weaving. In Milwaukee she has installed many Ofrendas for Day of the Dead at WPCA, UWM and Latino Arts. She also participated in the show Emergent Latinos in Milwaukee and In Borders, an exhibit about immigration into the United States, held at UW Oshkosh. Ximena has worked as a performing artist with different theater companies, and has also been awarded with several international literary prizes for her fiction and poetry. She has received scholarships and fellowships for her studies in education as well. Ximena is currently a teacher in MPS and a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.

Call For ARTISTS!

2009-05-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

(please click on the call to view it at a larger size)

It's time for a PLAY DATE!

2009-04-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Hey RAA!

It is time for a play date.

Come out of hibernation, look at the sun, and walk over to the Jazz Gallery for the
May Play Date:)

Bring something to work on to the gallery and create in a community of artists!

May 2nd, 1-3pm @ The Jazz Gallery! 926 E Center

-julie

Our Musical Guests

2009-04-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

Here are some highlights from last night's event.

We started off with a wonderfully intimate performance from Elizabeth Birr...

And later on, we jazzed it up with The Jason Spottek Trio...

We had a great time at the Furnace Show's Silent Auction Event last night. Thank You so much for giving the RAA such incredible music to enjoy!
Also, A BIG THANK YOU to all of our local visual artists who contributed to this show. We could not have done it without YOU!
Love,
The RAA

This Saturday, April 25th

2009-04-22T16:56:00.000-07:00

At our Silent Auction Event, we will have LIVE MUSIC
starting at 6p.

Be there for Elizabeth Birr on keyboards

followed by the Jason Spottek Trio.
_________________________________________

Final bids will be taken up until 7p
so get down to The Jazz Gallery
to bid on local art.

Please help us continue the wonderful time
we had on Gallery Night.

The Jazz Gallery is located at 926 E. Center Street,
in the heart of Riverwest.

*The RAA also got a mention on JS online this weekend.
You can find that here.

Our Pick Of Pics

2009-04-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Out of the many photos taken on our Furnace Show's opening Night, these are our favorites!
Enjoy the pics and come on down for more bidding throughout the rest of the week.

On Gallery Night, here's what happened.

there were intent looks at the art...

we learned that John IS Riverwest (so doncha be messin')...

and he puts out a really good spread...

all artwork is still available for purchase...

people really enjoy 'found objects' in their art...

a good, diverse crowd came (some with fur hats)...

I managed to catch some behind-the-scenes tom-foolery from Theresa and Adam of 88Nine Radio Milwaukee...

I took this blurry shot, but I love the little girl's pink rain boots, and everyone is happy...

we got even more support (and tom-foolery) from 88Nine Radio Milwaukee...

I looked down the length of the gallery and here's what I saw...

and I saw these two dudes, deep in their artistic thoughts...

and lots of discussions that were going on...

at many points in the night, the gallery was this full...

however there is still time for you to quietly bid on our show...

Please come and join us on Saturday April 25th for the Silent Auction Event! We are open 12p-9p. There is still time to bid!

To Whom We Love...

2009-04-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

The Riverwest Artists Association WELCOMES

to the Furnace Show

THANK YOU for your Support!

ETA: The Furnace Show just got a mention in Milwaukee Decider today too!

What You Could Get

2009-04-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

If you go to the Furnace Show this weekend and start your bids. To entice you to actually come down, I made sure I took these crappy/far away photos with my camera phone...

I can't give it all away, now can I? You wanna see things closer? Well then, you must attend. We are open Gallery Night and Day, 926. E. Center in Riverwest! Then stop back on the 25th for the Silent Auction Event to see how your bid is doing!

Don't Miss This Event!

2009-04-07T17:31:00.000-07:00

It's coming right up, my friends...

NOW ON TWITTER

2009-04-03T21:11:00.000-07:00

Yes we are. Follow us on twitter by going here: http://twitter.com/RiverwestArtist

Could You Help Us With This?

2009-04-03T08:56:00.001-07:00

WE are gonna freeze next winter if you don't donate art!Please donate a piece of art so RAA doesn't become a popsicle. We will auction off your art and use the $ to buy the much needed new furnace.

You can drop off donations for the Furnace Show tonight from 5-8pm and tomorrow from 12-5pm. You will receive a free T-Shirt as a thank you.

ALSO! Tomorrow is also our Play Date from 1-3pm so bring a project to work on and hang out... that is after you have brought us a donation:)

Play date Q & A

2009-03-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS A PLAY DATE?

I'm glad you asked you ominous internet voice.
A playdate is an event to which you bring a project you are working on. If you don't have a project started just bring materials to start a new project, and work among other neighborhood artists at The Jazz Gallery.

WOW THAT SOUNDS COOL. WHERE IS THE JAZZ GALLERY?

The Jazz Gallery is at 926 E Center St. Milwaukee, WI 53212 right down the block from Fuel Cafe.

THANKS FOR TELLING ME!

You are welcome:)

Play Date

2009-03-31T10:15:00.001-07:00

Everyone come to our next Play Date - Saturday, April 4th from 1-3.

Darlene

Nifty History

2009-03-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

The Jazz Gallery!

Originally built at the turn of the century, THE JAZZ GALLERY was initially a corner bar, one of the first on East Center Street. At some point, the bar added a west wing as a hall, which greatly increased its size and capacity for business.

The Jazz Gallery, one of the best jazz clubs in our region at the time, began in the late 1960's. On its stage some of the giants of Jazz performed, including Sun Ra, Sunny Stitt, Les McCann, Sunny Rollins, Ramsey Lewis and Jimmy Smith. Famed Milwaukee Jazz DJ, Ron Cuzner was the MC at most of these shows.

When the 80's rolled around rock bands such as The Violent Femmes played at the Jazz Gallery on a regular basis. Around that time the business was sold with the intent of making the space into a nightclub, but the necessary license couldn't be obtained.

In the mid-90's, the space was purchase by Bob Klavetter, a local real estate investor with a vision for Center Street. However, hard economic times in Riverwest kept this vision from being realized until after Klavetter’s death in November 2007.

Since Bob Klavetter was one of the original members of The Riverwest Artists Association, we believe he would have greatly approved of RAA's purchase of the building and creation of a new neighborhood art center.

As a salute to the amazing talent that graced this building throughout the years, the RAA board of directors has decided to keep the name THE JAZZ GALLERY and infuse it with new life as a contemporary art center featuring diverse visual art.

Please come over on a Thursday night or Saturday and check out the history space and its new tenants, The Riverwest Artist Association☺

A Successful Play Date

2009-03-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

(I took photos for proof of this fact.)

A good dozen people showed up on Saturday, and it was the first time we have hosted such an event at The Jazz Gallery. That means it can only get better next month.

It was encouraging for me to see such a good rapport with artists of all ages, working with such vastly different medias. There were a lot of good discussions happening...what we brought to work on that day, what we have done in the past. As an artist, I find that it is often times difficult to get an honest critique or even questions/interest about my work.

The Artist Play Date provides a venue for this, and gives us all an extra glimpse of each other, and our direct community. I also heard some excellent stories on Saturday, and considering the fact that I am the 'newbie', I have a lot to hear...and see...

Yes, it was a very fine Play Date indeed.

-sg

Call For Artists!

2009-03-06T15:22:00.000-08:00

That means YOU...

__________________________________________________

FURNACE SHOW

(because we really need a new one)

Gallery Night 2009

Shepherding the new Riverwest Community Arts Center into the thriving Riverwest neighborhood.

A collection of work by local artists will be showcased on Gallery Night at our new space, The Jazz Gallery. Early bidding starts on April 17, and the Silent Auction Event will be held on Saturday April 25, with live music and refreshments.

You can help The Riverwest Artists Association to further establish our new space by contributing to the aptly named, “Furnace Show”. We are hoping for your support...and some heat.

__________________________________________________________

Please donate a finished piece of your work to be exhibited and auctioned at The Jazz Gallery. All mediums are welcome. Drop off days will be April 2nd through the 4th between 5 and 8pm at The Jazz Gallery, 926 E. Center Street, Milwaukee.

~The first 50 entries will receive a free Artwalk T-shirt!

Again, your piece will be showcased on Gallery Night, and a part of the Silent Auction Event on April 25th.

The Gallery Was Grand

2009-03-01T06:44:00.000-08:00

I have recently acquired some photos of The Jazz Gallery's Grand Opening Show from Darlene. I have slightly edited them (mainly cropping), and am pleased with just how nice the gallery looks and photographs. Thus, I am sharing with everyone who may not have been at the opening in July, or seen the new gallery since then.

The design of the space is interesting, elegant, and a bit old Hollywood...

And it is certainly jazzy.

Please enjoy a few more photos of the opening show, courtesy of Darlene Hagopian...

Here are shots of a few of the pieces exhibited at the opening show...

Mark Lawson

Darlene Hagopian

Until the Play Date!
-sg

(P.S. If anyone knows the artists' names of the above pieces, I would like to include them in this post.)

The Jazz Gallery

2009-02-04T21:26:00.000-08:00

The Riverwest Artist Association is now located at THE JAZZ GALLERY! Yes that is right Riverwest we have a new gallery right on Center Street. For the month of February we will be closed to spruce up the building but we will be opening or doors soon for the...

Artist Play Date At THE JAZZ Gallery!

Saturday March 7th 1-3pm

Come and bring a project you are working on to the Jazz gallery, or bring materials to start a new project, and work among other neighborhood artists. Have fun while benefiting from each others creative energy and support!

The Riverwest Artist Association fostering reflective, innovative, and proactive art to
enrich and stimulate our community.

The Jazz Gallery 926 E Center St. Milwaukee WI 53212 (414) 374-4722 info@riverwestart.org