Verve: enthusiasm or vigor, as in literary or artistic work; spirit, vivaciousness; liveliness; animation. There was a lot this in the air at The Mod Club in Toronto on August 26th. This was the third RAW show that I've attended, but my first one in the summer months. I think that may have been why the crowd was a little smaller than I'm used to seeing. This show was also held over two days, August 25th and 26th, where previous shows were one-day shows.
So, what is RAW anyway? RAW provides independent artists within the first 10 years of their creative career with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity. Artistic talent is scouted for by RAW Directors. Artists that are selected need to sell 20 tickets to the show they are participating in. After they have met that requirement, they can showcase at any other RAW show in any other city for free. Each show I've been to, I purchased a ticket to support an artist that I knew. If you don't know any participating artists, you can get tickets at the door, or read through the artist bios and support an artist whose work speaks to you.
The shows spotlight talent in visual art, fashion design, film, music, performance art, hair & makeup artistry, and photography. RAW operates in over 60 cities across the United States, Australia, Canada and the UK. I was excited to hear that RAW is coming to Kitchener-Waterloo because there is a lot of artistic talent in the area. I met the new Director for KW, Daniel Ananka. He is also an artist and was showing his work at Verve.
Some of my favourites from the show:
"Eye On The Prize" by Nicole Moss
Strike Boogie The Artist working on art during the show. I always enjoy watching something being created from nothing.
A piece by Greg Merritt. His work is so detailed.
A piece by Daniel Ananka.
Fluid Creations by Jess
Creepy art by Patricia Taylor
Creepy art by Patricia Taylor
Work by Ottawa artist/musician/maker/designer David Pattee. His work was so different from anything I saw that night. Look for an interview with David on the blog soon.
Work by Ottawa artist/musician/maker/designer David Pattee. His work was so different from anything I saw that night. Look for an interview with David on the blog soon.
If you're looking for a fun evening that's part art show, mixed with a concert, fashion show, and film screening, check the RAW website to see when the next show near you will be. It's a great way to discover new artists and maybe acquire some art for your collection.
Story and photos by Glodeane Brown