The other art fair in town -artMRKT 2013, has quite a bit to see as usual – a huge venue, this time right down on our beautiful San Francisco Bay at Fort Mason. We guiltily skirted the picketers outside and wandered for an hour or two till our feet gave out. (Not sure how all those ladies in the black miniskirts and stilettos fared, not sure I want to…) Last night was a busy night at all the art fair previews!
One of the best aspects about ArtPadSF is it’s manageable size, just enough art display space so that one feels satiated – but not an overwhelming amount making your feet ache and your eyes go jiggy. Each gallery has its own hotel room – converted into a mini gallery, even the bathrooms. There is a restaurant and bar, palm trees and a gorgeous pool, sparkling in the sunlight to kick back and relax by, in-between room hopping.
We’ve shared just a tiny tidbit of the impressive art on exhibit – way too many great artists and art to cover here – just enough to tickle your fancy and get you on down to ArtPad’s happening scene.
Alexandra Manukyan paints surreal figurative works, some with involved narrative tableaus and others as set-up, posed portraits. They have a classic old master approach with vintage garb or fanciful head dresses, contrasting with contemporary tattoos and dominance inspired garb. Steampunk masks, bondage cuffs, nun hats, Victorian corsets and punk tattoos find their way across her canvas. Her women are real – strong, fragile and complicated, reacting to and presenting defiance to symbols of traditional romantic roles.
Coming up at Varnish Fine Arts is an exhibition not to missed – Dan Quintana’s solo show, Zero Instruments. We have long admired Dan’s dynamite painting skills and his newer works have evolved into more involved compositions, superbly surreal masterpieces.
Entranced by the cover of Olaf Hajek’s newest book , we delved into his portfolio and fell entranced. He has an abundance of stunning artworks – trying to edit this post down to just these seven pieces was incredibly difficult. So be sure to check out his other work on his site ( link below.) Olaf creates a world of surreal fantasy and melancholic beauty – full of flora, fauna and fanciful headdresses juxtaposed with the human condition.
Fatima Ronquillo’s paintings are a wonderfully eclectic combination of many styles – old masters, folk art, classical European portraiture and surrealism. We love the roundness and friendliness of her subjects, especially when combined with the added surprise of surreal elements and sarcasm.
