Available Art
Are you one of these people who enjoys expressing disdain for the arts but harbours a secret intrigue to know more? Do you usually enjoy visiting galleries as much as visiting the dentist? Would you, on the other hand, like to start collecting art but don't think you have the money? Then this could be the one for you. Although many are suspicious of more conceptual and "off the wall" forms of art and art-making, the only thing you will find unbelievable here are the very low prices you will pay to obtain original works of art. Most of prices will be less then 50 zloty.
This show came to Krakow for the third time in 2006. It is unique in the sense that it showcases the work of around 100 up and coming artists from different countries, ranging from as far afield as Ireland and Turkey, and artists at all different stages in their careers. This really is your chance to pick up a piece at a great price by someone who could be one of the next big names in art.
The artworks on show are just as diverse as the countries they hail from, with a broad selection of talents being represented. There will be something for everyone, such as artists multiples, paintings, graphics, photography, even films on CD and DVD.
The project is the brainchild of artists Anna Morlinghaus and Magda Olasinska, graduates of the Krakow Academy of Fine Arts. And the ethos is simple: available works of art for a wider audience. The shop-like ambiance certainly makes this show much less intimidating than your usual "white cube" experience.
The exhibition has a very open and communicative approach: the artworks are made available not only by their low prices but also through conversations and explanations at the show. A visitor to the exhibition should be able to take something home - in his thoughts and in his hands.
Perhaps what's most important about the concept of the Available Art show is the fact that it addresses the need for a wider support network for the many young artists and graduates that work in Krakow but just have no opportunity to show their works. There is a lot of very diverse and challenging stuff out there that we just do not get the chance to see. This is displayed alongside the ever-burning issue of addressing ways to bring contemporary arts to new audiences. However, we can certainly hope that such an innovative concept for presenting a really different, fun and lighthearted show is rewarded with the attention it deserves.