Work of Art’s Weakest Artists Remain

by Paddy Johnson on July 1, 2010 · 235 comments WANGA

Abdi Farah's "I.E.D." (Improvised Explosive Device)

BRAVO promised to send a Work of Art screener yesterday so I could view it in Canada but it never arrived. As such, readers won’t see a recap of this week’s “shocking” art episode. Judging by everything I’ve seen and read though, this episodes only further proves the complaining observations of gallery extras prior to the show’s airing: All the interesting artists were being eliminated. Speaking to this, SPOILER ALERT: John Parot and Nao Bustamante got the axe this week. Shock and awe artist Andrea Serrano was the guest judge.

Neither artist produced particularly strong work, which puts them on par with just about everyone else in this week’s episode (Peregrine Honig’s drawings were the only works that seemed passable to me). There goes the show’s two most legitimate artists.

Just so it’s clear, Work of Art’s weakest artists are, Ryan Schultz, Eric Johnson, Jaclyn Santos, Abdi Farah, and Mark Valesquez. None of them have been eliminated yet and this distortion ripples its way through the media. Yesterday evening NYMagazine critic Jerry Saltz described Abdi’s floor-displayed black heads with wicks as full of “magic and presence.” Yeah right. We’re heading for a grim grand finale with Abdi and Valesquez. If Bravo’s track record remains in tact, Peregrine Honig will be eliminated next week.

{ 233 comments }

Hypothete July 1, 2010 at 3:12 pm

That should be Andres Serrano, not Andrea.

Hypothete July 1, 2010 at 3:12 pm

That should be Andres Serrano, not Andrea.

Hypothete July 1, 2010 at 11:12 am

That should be Andres Serrano, not Andrea.

t.whid July 1, 2010 at 3:27 pm

It’s truly pathetic. I’m done with it.

t.whid July 1, 2010 at 3:27 pm

It’s truly pathetic. I’m done with it.

t.whid July 1, 2010 at 11:27 am

It’s truly pathetic. I’m done with it.

Jerry Saltz July 1, 2010 at 4:04 pm

Paddy;
Thank you for the post.
Which three contestants would be in your final episode of ‘Work of Art?
Just wondering.
Jerry Saltz

Man July 1, 2010 at 8:54 pm

I’m not Paddy, but couldn’t resist:

Trong, Nao and Peregrine.

Man July 1, 2010 at 8:54 pm

I’m not Paddy, but couldn’t resist:

Trong, Nao and Peregrine.

Man July 1, 2010 at 8:54 pm

I’m not Paddy, but couldn’t resist:

Trong, Nao and Peregrine.

Dear July 1, 2010 at 10:06 pm

Miles, Miles, and Miles. That’s my vote.

Kathleen July 3, 2010 at 12:31 am

Mine too. He is the most creative, does his homework, has ideas and knows art theory. Too bad about his arrogant personality. One can only hope he will mature.

Kathleen July 3, 2010 at 12:31 am

Mine too. He is the most creative, does his homework, has ideas and knows art theory. Too bad about his arrogant personality. One can only hope he will mature.

Art Fag City July 5, 2010 at 1:48 pm

This comment from James:

I disagree. I thought that Miles’ piece in this episode was too similar to Arturo Herrera’s 1999 painting ‘All I Ask.’

jack August 12, 2010 at 12:26 am

yes it does. Miles seems to have an idea before they name the challenge. all he has to do is find a connection between his idea and the challenge.

Dear July 1, 2010 at 10:06 pm

Miles, Miles, and Miles. That’s my vote.

Dear July 1, 2010 at 10:06 pm

Miles, Miles, and Miles. That’s my vote.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 2:58 am

That’s a tough question to answer because of course who knows what they would have made. To my mind though, the strongest artists on the show were/are: Nao Bustamante, John Parot, Miles Mendenhall, Judith Braun, Trong Nyugen, Peregrine Honig, and Nicole Nadeau. Based on what I’ve seen and researched about each artist, I would have liked to see what Nao Bustamante, John Parot, Miles Mendenhall did for a show most. Only one of those picks is still around for a show, and should Mendenhall win the series, I think this represents a serious problem for the Brooklyn Museum. He’s a great artist….so far. 23 year olds simply haven’t been making art for long enough to have reached any kind of maturity.

Dave July 2, 2010 at 4:47 am

Based of a combination of portrayd artist skill and a general sense of who could make something good, if you asked me the first week, i would have said the final three would have been Judith, Nao, and Miles. if you asked me the second week I would have thought maybe Trong would be in the mix (boy was I wrong!). Third week, i would have said probably John, Miles, and Nao. Now in the fourth week, and this really makes me feel a little icky, if Miles doesn’t win, I will eat a tube of cadmium red oil paint.

Dave July 2, 2010 at 4:47 am

Based of a combination of portrayd artist skill and a general sense of who could make something good, if you asked me the first week, i would have said the final three would have been Judith, Nao, and Miles. if you asked me the second week I would have thought maybe Trong would be in the mix (boy was I wrong!). Third week, i would have said probably John, Miles, and Nao. Now in the fourth week, and this really makes me feel a little icky, if Miles doesn’t win, I will eat a tube of cadmium red oil paint.

Dave July 2, 2010 at 4:47 am

Based of a combination of portrayd artist skill and a general sense of who could make something good, if you asked me the first week, i would have said the final three would have been Judith, Nao, and Miles. if you asked me the second week I would have thought maybe Trong would be in the mix (boy was I wrong!). Third week, i would have said probably John, Miles, and Nao. Now in the fourth week, and this really makes me feel a little icky, if Miles doesn’t win, I will eat a tube of cadmium red oil paint.

Budd Dees July 4, 2010 at 9:48 am

REALLY???? I want to play this one, Jerry Saltz! Miles and Nao for the artists who watch and Eric for middle America (and because he gives us astonishing statistics… like that priest AIDS thing that he definitely did not just make up on the spot and was definitely not completely dripping with homophobia). Or Abdi for my grandmother. Or Ryan for my boner. Third choice is just for kicks right? Miles and Nao.

Ellen B Cutler July 4, 2010 at 3:55 pm

Jerry,

Let’s be reasonable–this is a reality television show where producers had to round up artists of different ages, races, and backgrounds, working in a variety of mediums, who might be entertaining and would likely generate some interpersonal drama. The producers did a good job.

Some of the artists are extremely interesting and have the skills, imagination and intelligence to make a mark: Miles and John certainly. Nicole and Peregrine, I think. Abdi needs some growing time and more education but I’m pretty impressed. Mark does strong work but photography is difficult to relate to painting and sculpture.

All brought something of artistic value to the mix.

In the end, however, you are not identifying the greatest artist in the group, merely the one who for a variety of reasons escaped expulsion.

The show isn’t about art. It is about China Chow’s wardrobe and Simon de Pury’s tailor and accent, and the way people behave under huge amounts of stress.

It could have been at least a little about art if you and the other jurors had encouraged meaningful discussion of art, what it isn’t or was or could be, instead of resorting to sound bites that are meaningless to the viewer, hurtful to the artist, and embarrassing to those of us who regard ourselves as arts professionals. Of course Jeanne Rohatyn is the worst, but I am deeply disappointed in you.

But then, reality tv is about triviality. I just wish art didn’t lend itself so easily to trivialization.

Ellen

Jerry Saltz July 1, 2010 at 4:04 pm

Paddy;
Thank you for the post.
Which three contestants would be in your final episode of ‘Work of Art?
Just wondering.
Jerry Saltz

Jerry Saltz July 1, 2010 at 12:04 pm

Paddy;
Thank you for the post.
Which three contestants would be in your final episode of ‘Work of Art?
Just wondering.
Jerry Saltz

Man July 1, 2010 at 4:54 pm

I’m not Paddy, but couldn’t resist:

Trong, Nao and Peregrine.

Dear July 1, 2010 at 6:06 pm

Miles, Miles, and Miles. That’s my vote.

Kathleen July 2, 2010 at 8:31 pm

Mine too. He is the most creative, does his homework, has ideas and knows art theory. Too bad about his arrogant personality. One can only hope he will mature.

Art Fag City July 5, 2010 at 9:48 am

This comment from James:

I disagree. I thought that Miles’ piece in this episode was too similar to Arturo Herrera’s 1999 painting ‘All I Ask.’

jack August 11, 2010 at 8:26 pm

yes it does. Miles seems to have an idea before they name the challenge. all he has to do is find a connection between his idea and the challenge.

Art Fag City July 1, 2010 at 10:58 pm

That’s a tough question to answer because of course who knows what they would have made. To my mind though, the strongest artists on the show were/are: Nao Bustamante, John Parot, Miles Mendenhall, Judith Braun, Trong Nyugen, Peregrine Honig, and Nicole Nadeau. Based on what I’ve seen and researched about each artist, I would have liked to see what Nao Bustamante, John Parot, Miles Mendenhall did for a show most. Only one of those picks is still around for a show, and should Mendenhall win the series, I think this represents a serious problem for the Brooklyn Museum. He’s a great artist….so far. 23 year olds simply haven’t been making art for long enough to have reached any kind of maturity.

Dave July 2, 2010 at 12:47 am

Based of a combination of portrayd artist skill and a general sense of who could make something good, if you asked me the first week, i would have said the final three would have been Judith, Nao, and Miles. if you asked me the second week I would have thought maybe Trong would be in the mix (boy was I wrong!). Third week, i would have said probably John, Miles, and Nao. Now in the fourth week, and this really makes me feel a little icky, if Miles doesn’t win, I will eat a tube of cadmium red oil paint.

Budd Dees July 4, 2010 at 5:48 am

REALLY???? I want to play this one, Jerry Saltz! Miles and Nao for the artists who watch and Eric for middle America (and because he gives us astonishing statistics… like that priest AIDS thing that he definitely did not just make up on the spot and was definitely not completely dripping with homophobia). Or Abdi for my grandmother. Or Ryan for my boner. Third choice is just for kicks right? Miles and Nao.

Ellen B Cutler July 4, 2010 at 11:55 am

Jerry,

Let’s be reasonable–this is a reality television show where producers had to round up artists of different ages, races, and backgrounds, working in a variety of mediums, who might be entertaining and would likely generate some interpersonal drama. The producers did a good job.

Some of the artists are extremely interesting and have the skills, imagination and intelligence to make a mark: Miles and John certainly. Nicole and Peregrine, I think. Abdi needs some growing time and more education but I’m pretty impressed. Mark does strong work but photography is difficult to relate to painting and sculpture.

All brought something of artistic value to the mix.

In the end, however, you are not identifying the greatest artist in the group, merely the one who for a variety of reasons escaped expulsion.

The show isn’t about art. It is about China Chow’s wardrobe and Simon de Pury’s tailor and accent, and the way people behave under huge amounts of stress.

It could have been at least a little about art if you and the other jurors had encouraged meaningful discussion of art, what it isn’t or was or could be, instead of resorting to sound bites that are meaningless to the viewer, hurtful to the artist, and embarrassing to those of us who regard ourselves as arts professionals. Of course Jeanne Rohatyn is the worst, but I am deeply disappointed in you.

But then, reality tv is about triviality. I just wish art didn’t lend itself so easily to trivialization.

Ellen

dan July 1, 2010 at 4:22 pm

This show reminds me of high school art class in which a student has not yet developed the ability to “think”, so the instructor must give an assignment. Matured art is about a self search into ones own psyche, not “who’s the best?” Not recognizing this, in my opinion is the shows down fall.

Carol July 5, 2010 at 9:40 pm

This is one of the best insights into the show I’ve heard. There are so many things wrong with it, but its juvenile treatment of supposedly mature artists is at its core. That, plus the wild mixture of media and sophistication levels amongst the artists, which turns this into a competition between apples, oranges, and pomegranates.

dan July 1, 2010 at 4:22 pm

This show reminds me of high school art class in which a student has not yet developed the ability to “think”, so the instructor must give an assignment. Matured art is about a self search into ones own psyche, not “who’s the best?” Not recognizing this, in my opinion is the shows down fall.

dan July 1, 2010 at 12:22 pm

This show reminds me of high school art class in which a student has not yet developed the ability to “think”, so the instructor must give an assignment. Matured art is about a self search into ones own psyche, not “who’s the best?” Not recognizing this, in my opinion is the shows down fall.

Carol July 5, 2010 at 5:40 pm

This is one of the best insights into the show I’ve heard. There are so many things wrong with it, but its juvenile treatment of supposedly mature artists is at its core. That, plus the wild mixture of media and sophistication levels amongst the artists, which turns this into a competition between apples, oranges, and pomegranates.

Olympia July 1, 2010 at 4:35 pm

Just wondering what’s up with the redesign of the site here. It cuts off the first sentence of every post before you click on it to open. It looks really weird.

Olympia July 1, 2010 at 4:35 pm

Just wondering what’s up with the redesign of the site here. It cuts off the first sentence of every post before you click on it to open. It looks really weird.

Olympia July 1, 2010 at 4:35 pm

Just wondering what’s up with the redesign of the site here. It cuts off the first sentence of every post before you click on it to open. It looks really weird.

Olympia July 1, 2010 at 4:35 pm

Just wondering what’s up with the redesign of the site here. It cuts off the first sentence of every post before you click on it to open. It looks really weird.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 3:02 am

Not all the posts cut off, just this one because I didn’t bother writing a summary excerpt for the front page. If I don’t write the excerpt it simply pulls the first couple of lines from the intro paragraph. Of course it’s preferable if I actually write a full excerpt, but I wrote this while on vacation. You’ll have to cut a little slack.

Olympia July 3, 2010 at 10:01 pm

Maybe it’s Internet Explorer. All the posts start off with the headline, then author, but it’s all mid-sentence to the direct right, or even further into the article. Would have to send you a screen shot. It still looks weird.

Olympia July 3, 2010 at 10:01 pm

Maybe it’s Internet Explorer. All the posts start off with the headline, then author, but it’s all mid-sentence to the direct right, or even further into the article. Would have to send you a screen shot. It still looks weird.

tom moody July 3, 2010 at 10:43 pm

Olympia is right–on Internet Explorer 8 the pink tag doesn’t line up over the photo but moves to the right, cutting off the first couple words of text. This is only on the front page–the text is fine in the actual post.

Art Fag City July 5, 2010 at 3:45 am

Annoying. I’ll look into getting this fixed.

Olympia July 3, 2010 at 10:01 pm

Maybe it’s Internet Explorer. All the posts start off with the headline, then author, but it’s all mid-sentence to the direct right, or even further into the article. Would have to send you a screen shot. It still looks weird.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 3:02 am

Not all the posts cut off, just this one because I didn’t bother writing a summary excerpt for the front page. If I don’t write the excerpt it simply pulls the first couple of lines from the intro paragraph. Of course it’s preferable if I actually write a full excerpt, but I wrote this while on vacation. You’ll have to cut a little slack.

Olympia July 1, 2010 at 12:35 pm

Just wondering what’s up with the redesign of the site here. It cuts off the first sentence of every post before you click on it to open. It looks really weird.

Art Fag City July 1, 2010 at 11:02 pm

Not all the posts cut off, just this one because I didn’t bother writing a summary excerpt for the front page. If I don’t write the excerpt it simply pulls the first couple of lines from the intro paragraph. Of course it’s preferable if I actually write a full excerpt, but I wrote this while on vacation. You’ll have to cut a little slack.

Olympia July 3, 2010 at 6:01 pm

Maybe it’s Internet Explorer. All the posts start off with the headline, then author, but it’s all mid-sentence to the direct right, or even further into the article. Would have to send you a screen shot. It still looks weird.

tom moody July 3, 2010 at 6:43 pm

Olympia is right–on Internet Explorer 8 the pink tag doesn’t line up over the photo but moves to the right, cutting off the first couple words of text. This is only on the front page–the text is fine in the actual post.

Art Fag City July 4, 2010 at 11:45 pm

Annoying. I’ll look into getting this fixed.

L.M. July 1, 2010 at 4:48 pm

I auto-follated through the whole episode.

…because, like, why not?

L.M. July 1, 2010 at 4:48 pm

I auto-follated through the whole episode.

…because, like, why not?

L.M. July 1, 2010 at 4:48 pm

I auto-follated through the whole episode.

…because, like, why not?

L.M. July 1, 2010 at 4:48 pm

I auto-follated through the whole episode.

…because, like, why not?

L.M. July 1, 2010 at 12:48 pm

I auto-follated through the whole episode.

…because, like, why not?

Patrick July 1, 2010 at 5:25 pm

Next week: calligraphy! That way we can really have fun with spelling. Saltz now asks Paddy which three. It doesn’t deserve consideration unless the producers remove that word ‘grate’ (sic) from the title of the show. He is correct, however, in his assessment from last week: a show like this has no hope of another season, unless, of course there might be a chance to see more tits and hear the word ‘dick’. Pablum is too kind.

Patrick July 1, 2010 at 5:25 pm

Next week: calligraphy! That way we can really have fun with spelling. Saltz now asks Paddy which three. It doesn’t deserve consideration unless the producers remove that word ‘grate’ (sic) from the title of the show. He is correct, however, in his assessment from last week: a show like this has no hope of another season, unless, of course there might be a chance to see more tits and hear the word ‘dick’. Pablum is too kind.

Patrick July 1, 2010 at 5:25 pm

Next week: calligraphy! That way we can really have fun with spelling. Saltz now asks Paddy which three. It doesn’t deserve consideration unless the producers remove that word ‘grate’ (sic) from the title of the show. He is correct, however, in his assessment from last week: a show like this has no hope of another season, unless, of course there might be a chance to see more tits and hear the word ‘dick’. Pablum is too kind.

Patrick July 1, 2010 at 5:25 pm

Next week: calligraphy! That way we can really have fun with spelling. Saltz now asks Paddy which three. It doesn’t deserve consideration unless the producers remove that word ‘grate’ (sic) from the title of the show. He is correct, however, in his assessment from last week: a show like this has no hope of another season, unless, of course there might be a chance to see more tits and hear the word ‘dick’. Pablum is too kind.

Patrick July 1, 2010 at 1:25 pm

Next week: calligraphy! That way we can really have fun with spelling. Saltz now asks Paddy which three. It doesn’t deserve consideration unless the producers remove that word ‘grate’ (sic) from the title of the show. He is correct, however, in his assessment from last week: a show like this has no hope of another season, unless, of course there might be a chance to see more tits and hear the word ‘dick’. Pablum is too kind.

pinecode July 1, 2010 at 7:44 pm

On the exit interview for Nao on the site, China Chow says that Andre Serrano was impressed with her work and wanted her to stay. So why exactly do they have guest artists if their opinions don’t matter?

John had a misstep but didn’t deserve to go home over Erik who has yet to put out anything remotely on the same playing field as the others.

pinecode July 1, 2010 at 7:44 pm

On the exit interview for Nao on the site, China Chow says that Andre Serrano was impressed with her work and wanted her to stay. So why exactly do they have guest artists if their opinions don’t matter?

John had a misstep but didn’t deserve to go home over Erik who has yet to put out anything remotely on the same playing field as the others.

FramingDevil July 2, 2010 at 8:45 pm

I agree with Pinecode…John did have a misstep….I saw what he was trying to convey, but his approach wasn’t fully developed (how can it be when you have less than a day?) especially when you are not inspired to shock. John never has been a shocking person as far as I know. However Erik seems lost and has no idea what is going on inside of himself. Dude needs to dig deep if he is gonna pull anything good off.

FramingDevil July 2, 2010 at 8:45 pm

I agree with Pinecode…John did have a misstep….I saw what he was trying to convey, but his approach wasn’t fully developed (how can it be when you have less than a day?) especially when you are not inspired to shock. John never has been a shocking person as far as I know. However Erik seems lost and has no idea what is going on inside of himself. Dude needs to dig deep if he is gonna pull anything good off.

FramingDevil July 2, 2010 at 8:45 pm

I agree with Pinecode…John did have a misstep….I saw what he was trying to convey, but his approach wasn’t fully developed (how can it be when you have less than a day?) especially when you are not inspired to shock. John never has been a shocking person as far as I know. However Erik seems lost and has no idea what is going on inside of himself. Dude needs to dig deep if he is gonna pull anything good off.

FramingDevil July 2, 2010 at 8:45 pm

I agree with Pinecode…John did have a misstep….I saw what he was trying to convey, but his approach wasn’t fully developed (how can it be when you have less than a day?) especially when you are not inspired to shock. John never has been a shocking person as far as I know. However Erik seems lost and has no idea what is going on inside of himself. Dude needs to dig deep if he is gonna pull anything good off.

pinecode July 1, 2010 at 7:44 pm

On the exit interview for Nao on the site, China Chow says that Andre Serrano was impressed with her work and wanted her to stay. So why exactly do they have guest artists if their opinions don’t matter?

John had a misstep but didn’t deserve to go home over Erik who has yet to put out anything remotely on the same playing field as the others.

pinecode July 1, 2010 at 7:44 pm

On the exit interview for Nao on the site, China Chow says that Andre Serrano was impressed with her work and wanted her to stay. So why exactly do they have guest artists if their opinions don’t matter?

John had a misstep but didn’t deserve to go home over Erik who has yet to put out anything remotely on the same playing field as the others.

pinecode July 1, 2010 at 3:44 pm

On the exit interview for Nao on the site, China Chow says that Andre Serrano was impressed with her work and wanted her to stay. So why exactly do they have guest artists if their opinions don’t matter?

John had a misstep but didn’t deserve to go home over Erik who has yet to put out anything remotely on the same playing field as the others.

FramingDevil July 2, 2010 at 4:45 pm

I agree with Pinecode…John did have a misstep….I saw what he was trying to convey, but his approach wasn’t fully developed (how can it be when you have less than a day?) especially when you are not inspired to shock. John never has been a shocking person as far as I know. However Erik seems lost and has no idea what is going on inside of himself. Dude needs to dig deep if he is gonna pull anything good off.

alex July 1, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Dan, yeah, sure, real art comes from within, but how do you square that with having a reality show? In order for WANGA to recognize that, it would have to… not be a reality show. Or at least not in the Magical Elves vein; the format is following a specific set of rules: Give a challenge, deprive contestants of sleep, provide some sort of surprise, give tough snarky reviews, eliminate a contestant, rinse, repeat.

Paddy, I’m not sure I get your evaluation of Peregrine’s work. Do you think it rose above the rest, or was the very weakest? If you think it rose above, why? I think the only way it was remotely shocking, which it wasn’t (not to me), was that it appeared to be mocking China Chow’s wardrobe. Bloody-faced fancy clothes figures? Shocking how? Successful how?

Call me a little surprised on Abdi winning. Not shocking, but pretty traditional message art. I think it was a pretty dumb challenge. I’m also a little confused by how little time the contestants are offered per challenge.

alex July 1, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Dan, yeah, sure, real art comes from within, but how do you square that with having a reality show? In order for WANGA to recognize that, it would have to… not be a reality show. Or at least not in the Magical Elves vein; the format is following a specific set of rules: Give a challenge, deprive contestants of sleep, provide some sort of surprise, give tough snarky reviews, eliminate a contestant, rinse, repeat.

Paddy, I’m not sure I get your evaluation of Peregrine’s work. Do you think it rose above the rest, or was the very weakest? If you think it rose above, why? I think the only way it was remotely shocking, which it wasn’t (not to me), was that it appeared to be mocking China Chow’s wardrobe. Bloody-faced fancy clothes figures? Shocking how? Successful how?

Call me a little surprised on Abdi winning. Not shocking, but pretty traditional message art. I think it was a pretty dumb challenge. I’m also a little confused by how little time the contestants are offered per challenge.

alex July 1, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Dan, yeah, sure, real art comes from within, but how do you square that with having a reality show? In order for WANGA to recognize that, it would have to… not be a reality show. Or at least not in the Magical Elves vein; the format is following a specific set of rules: Give a challenge, deprive contestants of sleep, provide some sort of surprise, give tough snarky reviews, eliminate a contestant, rinse, repeat.

Paddy, I’m not sure I get your evaluation of Peregrine’s work. Do you think it rose above the rest, or was the very weakest? If you think it rose above, why? I think the only way it was remotely shocking, which it wasn’t (not to me), was that it appeared to be mocking China Chow’s wardrobe. Bloody-faced fancy clothes figures? Shocking how? Successful how?

Call me a little surprised on Abdi winning. Not shocking, but pretty traditional message art. I think it was a pretty dumb challenge. I’m also a little confused by how little time the contestants are offered per challenge.

alex July 1, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Dan, yeah, sure, real art comes from within, but how do you square that with having a reality show? In order for WANGA to recognize that, it would have to… not be a reality show. Or at least not in the Magical Elves vein; the format is following a specific set of rules: Give a challenge, deprive contestants of sleep, provide some sort of surprise, give tough snarky reviews, eliminate a contestant, rinse, repeat.

Paddy, I’m not sure I get your evaluation of Peregrine’s work. Do you think it rose above the rest, or was the very weakest? If you think it rose above, why? I think the only way it was remotely shocking, which it wasn’t (not to me), was that it appeared to be mocking China Chow’s wardrobe. Bloody-faced fancy clothes figures? Shocking how? Successful how?

Call me a little surprised on Abdi winning. Not shocking, but pretty traditional message art. I think it was a pretty dumb challenge. I’m also a little confused by how little time the contestants are offered per challenge.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 4:08 am

John Waters noted recently that it’s impossible to be shocking any more, so I don’t really think that it “not being shocking” means much. She made a bloody line of clothing infected with an imagined STD. That’s weird enough to be interesting. Nothing else was interesting, and once again the slickest work won.

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 2:53 pm

AFG, could you define ‘slick’. Saltz uses this word too. Granted, I understand context makes a difference; how are you defining it in regards to Abdi, or otherwise?
Thanks, A

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 4:59 pm

Actually, slick may not be the right word for Abdi — his work is a little too pat. In other words the concept is complete resolved because the artist never presented himself with a problem he had to solve in the first place. So far all of his concepts lack sophistication, (though in this challenge, that’s obviously asking for a lot). Jaclyn however presented the most slick work and it was in the top three. What I mean by this is something that’s not that complicated conceptually, employs representation and and has a crisp clean look.

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Thanks.

Abdi’s work didn’t remind me of hand bombs, they looked like candles and did not convey his thinking. I wonder if the judges immediately saw hand bombs/grenades or if they were clued in to what it was before they saw it.

Abdi explained/described his work. I think this is similar to what press releases do by telling us what the art at a show is suppose to ‘exude/ be’.

To be fair, I do think Abdi’s thinking was coming from the right place. If anything he surprised me by thinking within himself and experience. Of course, I find him naïve, especially after knowing he was clueless about Serrano’s Piss Christ. His ‘lack of curiosity/research’ with the art world and whatever school/educators he had did a disservice to him.

A

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Thanks.

Abdi’s work didn’t remind me of hand bombs, they looked like candles and did not convey his thinking. I wonder if the judges immediately saw hand bombs/grenades or if they were clued in to what it was before they saw it.

Abdi explained/described his work. I think this is similar to what press releases do by telling us what the art at a show is suppose to ‘exude/ be’.

To be fair, I do think Abdi’s thinking was coming from the right place. If anything he surprised me by thinking within himself and experience. Of course, I find him naïve, especially after knowing he was clueless about Serrano’s Piss Christ. His ‘lack of curiosity/research’ with the art world and whatever school/educators he had did a disservice to him.

A

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Thanks.

Abdi’s work didn’t remind me of hand bombs, they looked like candles and did not convey his thinking. I wonder if the judges immediately saw hand bombs/grenades or if they were clued in to what it was before they saw it.

Abdi explained/described his work. I think this is similar to what press releases do by telling us what the art at a show is suppose to ‘exude/ be’.

To be fair, I do think Abdi’s thinking was coming from the right place. If anything he surprised me by thinking within himself and experience. Of course, I find him naïve, especially after knowing he was clueless about Serrano’s Piss Christ. His ‘lack of curiosity/research’ with the art world and whatever school/educators he had did a disservice to him.

A

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 7:51 pm

Thanks.

Abdi’s work didn’t remind me of hand bombs, they looked like candles and did not convey his thinking. I wonder if the judges immediately saw hand bombs/grenades or if they were clued in to what it was before they saw it.

Abdi explained/described his work. I think this is similar to what press releases do by telling us what the art at a show is suppose to ‘exude/ be’.

To be fair, I do think Abdi’s thinking was coming from the right place. If anything he surprised me by thinking within himself and experience. Of course, I find him naïve, especially after knowing he was clueless about Serrano’s Piss Christ. His ‘lack of curiosity/research’ with the art world and whatever school/educators he had did a disservice to him.

A

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 8:58 pm

Abdi’s heads definitely look like satanic candles first, little bombs second. Despite his statement about the powder-kegs that are inner-city black men, I’m primarily seeing really constipated and/or scowling comic-book villains; not dreams-deferred ready to explode (though a reading of “A Raisin in the Sun” would’ve cheered the judges, who obviously love a rousing & cliched artwork explanation – especially Rohatyn, apparently). This is really bad art on a platter (rather, on a wood plank that was clearly used as a base to spray-paint the constipated villain candles, and then lazily used as a base).

And what about Erik’s swift association of priest-pedophiles and his factoid about priests having AIDS? His statements appeared as non sequiturs, but I think I deciphered his subtle associative logic: There are priests that are pedophiles. I heard a statistic that a lot of Catholic priests have AIDS. Ergo, my first statement is reinforced by the fact that priests have AIDS (BECAUSE THEY’RE GAY AND GAY PEOPLE HAVE AIDS AND MOLEST LITTLE BOYS!). Did I misinterpret him or is he just ultra-gross now?

And Perot’s illustration of an illiterate self-fellator looks more like someone impaling their face with their cock than someone sucking themselves off (the un-censored “piece” on Bravo’s site).

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 8:58 pm

Abdi’s heads definitely look like satanic candles first, little bombs second. Despite his statement about the powder-kegs that are inner-city black men, I’m primarily seeing really constipated and/or scowling comic-book villains; not dreams-deferred ready to explode (though a reading of “A Raisin in the Sun” would’ve cheered the judges, who obviously love a rousing & cliched artwork explanation – especially Rohatyn, apparently). This is really bad art on a platter (rather, on a wood plank that was clearly used as a base to spray-paint the constipated villain candles, and then lazily used as a base).

And what about Erik’s swift association of priest-pedophiles and his factoid about priests having AIDS? His statements appeared as non sequiturs, but I think I deciphered his subtle associative logic: There are priests that are pedophiles. I heard a statistic that a lot of Catholic priests have AIDS. Ergo, my first statement is reinforced by the fact that priests have AIDS (BECAUSE THEY’RE GAY AND GAY PEOPLE HAVE AIDS AND MOLEST LITTLE BOYS!). Did I misinterpret him or is he just ultra-gross now?

And Perot’s illustration of an illiterate self-fellator looks more like someone impaling their face with their cock than someone sucking themselves off (the un-censored “piece” on Bravo’s site).

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 8:58 pm

Abdi’s heads definitely look like satanic candles first, little bombs second. Despite his statement about the powder-kegs that are inner-city black men, I’m primarily seeing really constipated and/or scowling comic-book villains; not dreams-deferred ready to explode (though a reading of “A Raisin in the Sun” would’ve cheered the judges, who obviously love a rousing & cliched artwork explanation – especially Rohatyn, apparently). This is really bad art on a platter (rather, on a wood plank that was clearly used as a base to spray-paint the constipated villain candles, and then lazily used as a base).

And what about Erik’s swift association of priest-pedophiles and his factoid about priests having AIDS? His statements appeared as non sequiturs, but I think I deciphered his subtle associative logic: There are priests that are pedophiles. I heard a statistic that a lot of Catholic priests have AIDS. Ergo, my first statement is reinforced by the fact that priests have AIDS (BECAUSE THEY’RE GAY AND GAY PEOPLE HAVE AIDS AND MOLEST LITTLE BOYS!). Did I misinterpret him or is he just ultra-gross now?

And Perot’s illustration of an illiterate self-fellator looks more like someone impaling their face with their cock than someone sucking themselves off (the un-censored “piece” on Bravo’s site).

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 9:04 pm

I meant a reading of the poem “Harlem” by Langston Hughes, not the book “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry (the title was taken from a line in the poem).

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 9:04 pm

I meant a reading of the poem “Harlem” by Langston Hughes, not the book “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry (the title was taken from a line in the poem).

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 9:04 pm

I meant a reading of the poem “Harlem” by Langston Hughes, not the book “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry (the title was taken from a line in the poem).

Art Fag City July 5, 2010 at 3:47 am

Jesse P. Martin: I caught that too when I watched the episode Saturday. You did not misinterpret him — that was an unaddressed ragingly homophobic comment.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 4:59 pm

Actually, slick may not be the right word for Abdi — his work is a little too pat. In other words the concept is complete resolved because the artist never presented himself with a problem he had to solve in the first place. So far all of his concepts lack sophistication, (though in this challenge, that’s obviously asking for a lot). Jaclyn however presented the most slick work and it was in the top three. What I mean by this is something that’s not that complicated conceptually, employs representation and and has a crisp clean look.

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 2:53 pm

AFG, could you define ‘slick’. Saltz uses this word too. Granted, I understand context makes a difference; how are you defining it in regards to Abdi, or otherwise?
Thanks, A

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 2:53 pm

AFG, could you define ‘slick’. Saltz uses this word too. Granted, I understand context makes a difference; how are you defining it in regards to Abdi, or otherwise?
Thanks, A

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 2:53 pm

AFG, could you define ‘slick’. Saltz uses this word too. Granted, I understand context makes a difference; how are you defining it in regards to Abdi, or otherwise?
Thanks, A

Carol July 5, 2010 at 9:50 pm

I’ve actually been following Peregrine’s career for several years. I saw some of her drawings when they were shown at Dwight Hacket Projects in Santa Fe and was really impressed by them. Guess what they were? Drawings of high-fashion models with venereal diseases – pretty much identical to the ones she concocted for the show. This was way back in 2005. Do you think it’s fair that she fell back on a proven formula (from what I hear, the series has sold pretty well), and basically recreated her own work for this competition? I’d like to hear what people think.

Art Fag City July 6, 2010 at 2:03 pm

Hmmm, yes that should have been addressed, particularly in light of Judith being criticized for doing the same thing in the second episode.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 4:08 am

John Waters noted recently that it’s impossible to be shocking any more, so I don’t really think that it “not being shocking” means much. She made a bloody line of clothing infected with an imagined STD. That’s weird enough to be interesting. Nothing else was interesting, and once again the slickest work won.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 4:08 am

John Waters noted recently that it’s impossible to be shocking any more, so I don’t really think that it “not being shocking” means much. She made a bloody line of clothing infected with an imagined STD. That’s weird enough to be interesting. Nothing else was interesting, and once again the slickest work won.

alex July 1, 2010 at 3:51 pm

Dan, yeah, sure, real art comes from within, but how do you square that with having a reality show? In order for WANGA to recognize that, it would have to… not be a reality show. Or at least not in the Magical Elves vein; the format is following a specific set of rules: Give a challenge, deprive contestants of sleep, provide some sort of surprise, give tough snarky reviews, eliminate a contestant, rinse, repeat.

Paddy, I’m not sure I get your evaluation of Peregrine’s work. Do you think it rose above the rest, or was the very weakest? If you think it rose above, why? I think the only way it was remotely shocking, which it wasn’t (not to me), was that it appeared to be mocking China Chow’s wardrobe. Bloody-faced fancy clothes figures? Shocking how? Successful how?

Call me a little surprised on Abdi winning. Not shocking, but pretty traditional message art. I think it was a pretty dumb challenge. I’m also a little confused by how little time the contestants are offered per challenge.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 12:08 am

John Waters noted recently that it’s impossible to be shocking any more, so I don’t really think that it “not being shocking” means much. She made a bloody line of clothing infected with an imagined STD. That’s weird enough to be interesting. Nothing else was interesting, and once again the slickest work won.

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 10:53 am

AFG, could you define ‘slick’. Saltz uses this word too. Granted, I understand context makes a difference; how are you defining it in regards to Abdi, or otherwise?
Thanks, A

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 12:59 pm

Actually, slick may not be the right word for Abdi — his work is a little too pat. In other words the concept is complete resolved because the artist never presented himself with a problem he had to solve in the first place. So far all of his concepts lack sophistication, (though in this challenge, that’s obviously asking for a lot). Jaclyn however presented the most slick work and it was in the top three. What I mean by this is something that’s not that complicated conceptually, employs representation and and has a crisp clean look.

atonaladam July 2, 2010 at 3:51 pm

Thanks.

Abdi’s work didn’t remind me of hand bombs, they looked like candles and did not convey his thinking. I wonder if the judges immediately saw hand bombs/grenades or if they were clued in to what it was before they saw it.

Abdi explained/described his work. I think this is similar to what press releases do by telling us what the art at a show is suppose to ‘exude/ be’.

To be fair, I do think Abdi’s thinking was coming from the right place. If anything he surprised me by thinking within himself and experience. Of course, I find him naïve, especially after knowing he was clueless about Serrano’s Piss Christ. His ‘lack of curiosity/research’ with the art world and whatever school/educators he had did a disservice to him.

A

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 4:58 pm

Abdi’s heads definitely look like satanic candles first, little bombs second. Despite his statement about the powder-kegs that are inner-city black men, I’m primarily seeing really constipated and/or scowling comic-book villains; not dreams-deferred ready to explode (though a reading of “A Raisin in the Sun” would’ve cheered the judges, who obviously love a rousing & cliched artwork explanation – especially Rohatyn, apparently). This is really bad art on a platter (rather, on a wood plank that was clearly used as a base to spray-paint the constipated villain candles, and then lazily used as a base).

And what about Erik’s swift association of priest-pedophiles and his factoid about priests having AIDS? His statements appeared as non sequiturs, but I think I deciphered his subtle associative logic: There are priests that are pedophiles. I heard a statistic that a lot of Catholic priests have AIDS. Ergo, my first statement is reinforced by the fact that priests have AIDS (BECAUSE THEY’RE GAY AND GAY PEOPLE HAVE AIDS AND MOLEST LITTLE BOYS!). Did I misinterpret him or is he just ultra-gross now?

And Perot’s illustration of an illiterate self-fellator looks more like someone impaling their face with their cock than someone sucking themselves off (the un-censored “piece” on Bravo’s site).

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 5:04 pm

I meant a reading of the poem “Harlem” by Langston Hughes, not the book “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry (the title was taken from a line in the poem).

Art Fag City July 4, 2010 at 11:47 pm

Jesse P. Martin: I caught that too when I watched the episode Saturday. You did not misinterpret him — that was an unaddressed ragingly homophobic comment.

Carol July 5, 2010 at 5:50 pm

I’ve actually been following Peregrine’s career for several years. I saw some of her drawings when they were shown at Dwight Hacket Projects in Santa Fe and was really impressed by them. Guess what they were? Drawings of high-fashion models with venereal diseases – pretty much identical to the ones she concocted for the show. This was way back in 2005. Do you think it’s fair that she fell back on a proven formula (from what I hear, the series has sold pretty well), and basically recreated her own work for this competition? I’d like to hear what people think.

Art Fag City July 6, 2010 at 10:03 am

Hmmm, yes that should have been addressed, particularly in light of Judith being criticized for doing the same thing in the second episode.

Jim C. July 1, 2010 at 8:10 pm

They send exactly the wrong two home yesterday. It actually makes me think the producers have a hand in it. Neither Erik nor Jaime Lynn have been up to snuff–with the exception of Jaime Lynn’s junk piece, which did not deserve the judge’s reprobation as much as several others. Jaime’s was by far the weakest of the bunch. I just don’t get it. John had a mis-step, clearly uncomfortable with the assignment, but he and Nao have been pretty consistent. Too bad.

Still, complaining about the “artifice” of a reality TV show is a little silly. I think it’s cool that artists are taken out of their comfort zone and asked to do things creatively under pressure they wouldn’t normally do. Someone’s got to win and lose. It’s good TV.

Jim C. July 1, 2010 at 8:10 pm

They send exactly the wrong two home yesterday. It actually makes me think the producers have a hand in it. Neither Erik nor Jaime Lynn have been up to snuff–with the exception of Jaime Lynn’s junk piece, which did not deserve the judge’s reprobation as much as several others. Jaime’s was by far the weakest of the bunch. I just don’t get it. John had a mis-step, clearly uncomfortable with the assignment, but he and Nao have been pretty consistent. Too bad.

Still, complaining about the “artifice” of a reality TV show is a little silly. I think it’s cool that artists are taken out of their comfort zone and asked to do things creatively under pressure they wouldn’t normally do. Someone’s got to win and lose. It’s good TV.

Jim C. July 1, 2010 at 4:10 pm

They send exactly the wrong two home yesterday. It actually makes me think the producers have a hand in it. Neither Erik nor Jaime Lynn have been up to snuff–with the exception of Jaime Lynn’s junk piece, which did not deserve the judge’s reprobation as much as several others. Jaime’s was by far the weakest of the bunch. I just don’t get it. John had a mis-step, clearly uncomfortable with the assignment, but he and Nao have been pretty consistent. Too bad.

Still, complaining about the “artifice” of a reality TV show is a little silly. I think it’s cool that artists are taken out of their comfort zone and asked to do things creatively under pressure they wouldn’t normally do. Someone’s got to win and lose. It’s good TV.

Matt July 1, 2010 at 8:15 pm

This show continues to disappoint more and more. From lackluster contestants outliving the credibly good ones to questionable challenges and unclear criticisms from the judges, it’s starting to become an embarassment for the viewers and those involved

Matt July 1, 2010 at 8:15 pm

This show continues to disappoint more and more. From lackluster contestants outliving the credibly good ones to questionable challenges and unclear criticisms from the judges, it’s starting to become an embarassment for the viewers and those involved

Matt July 1, 2010 at 4:15 pm

This show continues to disappoint more and more. From lackluster contestants outliving the credibly good ones to questionable challenges and unclear criticisms from the judges, it’s starting to become an embarassment for the viewers and those involved

bonetopick July 1, 2010 at 8:44 pm

I think that Abdi and Mark have the most to fear…They are the only ones left before it’s an all young skinny straight white cast.

It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode, but I suspect that has something to do with her flirtation with Ryan.

I’m hitting myself for thinking that a reality show about art would be different…

Anonamoose July 3, 2010 at 5:59 pm

“It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode”.

…HE GOT ELIMINATED BECAUSE HIS PIECE WAS HIDEOUS. I’m not even talking about the dick sucking. The drawing looked like shit. The composition was shit. It looked like something a class clown would draw in middleschool just to get sent to the principles office.. In fact, it reminded me of a painting I did of some tits as a freshman in highschool. Told the substitute teacher they were twins. She insisted that heads didn’t look like that.

It really astonishes me when I see someone questioning something like him getting booted from the show. I know art is subjective.. but DAMNN.. he even said he hadn’t drawn the human figure in years.

Who cares about the misspelling. I kind of ignored the misspelling in Jaclyns case because anyone designing a real book cover would have to go through a whole process, thumbnails, a draft to show to the editor or whomever, and finally the final piece. Inevitably someone would have noticed the misspelling and it would have been corrected.

James July 5, 2010 at 9:49 pm

I don’t think the spelling really mattered too much in either elimination. I was looking through the artwork on bravo’s website and what seemed to be a double standard is why Nicole Nadeau was never called out for spelling Lewis Carroll “Lewis Carrol.” Favoritism?
http://www.bravotv.com/work-of-art/photos/episode-3-rate-the-work
Even Ryan’s error aired and he fixed it. If they are going to make an issue of spelling they should be fair about it.

bonetopick July 1, 2010 at 8:44 pm

I think that Abdi and Mark have the most to fear…They are the only ones left before it’s an all young skinny straight white cast.

It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode, but I suspect that has something to do with her flirtation with Ryan.

I’m hitting myself for thinking that a reality show about art would be different…

bonetopick July 1, 2010 at 8:44 pm

I think that Abdi and Mark have the most to fear…They are the only ones left before it’s an all young skinny straight white cast.

It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode, but I suspect that has something to do with her flirtation with Ryan.

I’m hitting myself for thinking that a reality show about art would be different…

bonetopick July 1, 2010 at 8:44 pm

I think that Abdi and Mark have the most to fear…They are the only ones left before it’s an all young skinny straight white cast.

It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode, but I suspect that has something to do with her flirtation with Ryan.

I’m hitting myself for thinking that a reality show about art would be different…

bonetopick July 1, 2010 at 4:44 pm

I think that Abdi and Mark have the most to fear…They are the only ones left before it’s an all young skinny straight white cast.

It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode, but I suspect that has something to do with her flirtation with Ryan.

I’m hitting myself for thinking that a reality show about art would be different…

Anonamoose July 3, 2010 at 1:59 pm

“It is a shocking double standard that they eliminated John for a spelling mistake and not Jaclyn in the previous weeks episode”.

…HE GOT ELIMINATED BECAUSE HIS PIECE WAS HIDEOUS. I’m not even talking about the dick sucking. The drawing looked like shit. The composition was shit. It looked like something a class clown would draw in middleschool just to get sent to the principles office.. In fact, it reminded me of a painting I did of some tits as a freshman in highschool. Told the substitute teacher they were twins. She insisted that heads didn’t look like that.

It really astonishes me when I see someone questioning something like him getting booted from the show. I know art is subjective.. but DAMNN.. he even said he hadn’t drawn the human figure in years.

Who cares about the misspelling. I kind of ignored the misspelling in Jaclyns case because anyone designing a real book cover would have to go through a whole process, thumbnails, a draft to show to the editor or whomever, and finally the final piece. Inevitably someone would have noticed the misspelling and it would have been corrected.

James July 5, 2010 at 5:49 pm

I don’t think the spelling really mattered too much in either elimination. I was looking through the artwork on bravo’s website and what seemed to be a double standard is why Nicole Nadeau was never called out for spelling Lewis Carroll “Lewis Carrol.” Favoritism?
http://www.bravotv.com/work-of-art/photos/episode-3-rate-the-work
Even Ryan’s error aired and he fixed it. If they are going to make an issue of spelling they should be fair about it.

pcity July 1, 2010 at 9:40 pm

this show couldn’t be more of a farce. whatever legitimacy and integrity jerry saltz may once have possessed (and that he did at all is questionable), has completely evaporated. that any of the weakest artists you name above ever made it on to the show is laughable. pure carnage.

pcity July 1, 2010 at 9:40 pm

this show couldn’t be more of a farce. whatever legitimacy and integrity jerry saltz may once have possessed (and that he did at all is questionable), has completely evaporated. that any of the weakest artists you name above ever made it on to the show is laughable. pure carnage.

pcity July 1, 2010 at 9:40 pm

this show couldn’t be more of a farce. whatever legitimacy and integrity jerry saltz may once have possessed (and that he did at all is questionable), has completely evaporated. that any of the weakest artists you name above ever made it on to the show is laughable. pure carnage.

pcity July 1, 2010 at 9:40 pm

this show couldn’t be more of a farce. whatever legitimacy and integrity jerry saltz may once have possessed (and that he did at all is questionable), has completely evaporated. that any of the weakest artists you name above ever made it on to the show is laughable. pure carnage.

pcity July 1, 2010 at 5:40 pm

this show couldn’t be more of a farce. whatever legitimacy and integrity jerry saltz may once have possessed (and that he did at all is questionable), has completely evaporated. that any of the weakest artists you name above ever made it on to the show is laughable. pure carnage.

patpatpatpat July 1, 2010 at 10:54 pm

paddy you’re dreaming, we all know now that this will be an epic standoff between Erik and Mark in the finale.

patpatpatpat July 1, 2010 at 10:54 pm

paddy you’re dreaming, we all know now that this will be an epic standoff between Erik and Mark in the finale.

patpatpatpat July 1, 2010 at 6:54 pm

paddy you’re dreaming, we all know now that this will be an epic standoff between Erik and Mark in the finale.

douglas July 1, 2010 at 11:03 pm

is there a viewer gallery for people who might be playing along on these challenges? i’m curious what a 16yr old in arkansas or retired 64yr old in ohio might be making if there is, though i guess that is what erik is suppose to represent. most of the art so far has been pretty boring, but i’ll keep watching and it’s fun hearing everyone gripe about it. 🙂

douglas July 1, 2010 at 11:03 pm

is there a viewer gallery for people who might be playing along on these challenges? i’m curious what a 16yr old in arkansas or retired 64yr old in ohio might be making if there is, though i guess that is what erik is suppose to represent. most of the art so far has been pretty boring, but i’ll keep watching and it’s fun hearing everyone gripe about it. 🙂

douglas July 1, 2010 at 11:03 pm

is there a viewer gallery for people who might be playing along on these challenges? i’m curious what a 16yr old in arkansas or retired 64yr old in ohio might be making if there is, though i guess that is what erik is suppose to represent. most of the art so far has been pretty boring, but i’ll keep watching and it’s fun hearing everyone gripe about it. 🙂

douglas July 1, 2010 at 11:03 pm

is there a viewer gallery for people who might be playing along on these challenges? i’m curious what a 16yr old in arkansas or retired 64yr old in ohio might be making if there is, though i guess that is what erik is suppose to represent. most of the art so far has been pretty boring, but i’ll keep watching and it’s fun hearing everyone gripe about it. 🙂

douglas July 1, 2010 at 7:03 pm

is there a viewer gallery for people who might be playing along on these challenges? i’m curious what a 16yr old in arkansas or retired 64yr old in ohio might be making if there is, though i guess that is what erik is suppose to represent. most of the art so far has been pretty boring, but i’ll keep watching and it’s fun hearing everyone gripe about it. 🙂

BigLittleWolf July 1, 2010 at 11:30 pm

I suspect there’s a lot on the virtual cutting room floor that we won’t ever see, that would at least make for informative viewing. But this is “entertainment” with a side of education. Do you really expect that the show doesn’t have an interest in keeping viewers tuned in?

That said, I was sorry to see Nao leave, thought John’s piece was no less unshocking than any others (and I liked the self-taught feel), wished Judith were around for this particular assignment, and of all the end results, I agree that Abdi’s trio of shrunken heads were the closest to meeting challenge requirements while still being art, not crap.

Now if only Jaclyn would leave her clothes on, that might be surprising.

BigLittleWolf July 1, 2010 at 11:30 pm

I suspect there’s a lot on the virtual cutting room floor that we won’t ever see, that would at least make for informative viewing. But this is “entertainment” with a side of education. Do you really expect that the show doesn’t have an interest in keeping viewers tuned in?

That said, I was sorry to see Nao leave, thought John’s piece was no less unshocking than any others (and I liked the self-taught feel), wished Judith were around for this particular assignment, and of all the end results, I agree that Abdi’s trio of shrunken heads were the closest to meeting challenge requirements while still being art, not crap.

Now if only Jaclyn would leave her clothes on, that might be surprising.

BigLittleWolf July 1, 2010 at 11:30 pm

I suspect there’s a lot on the virtual cutting room floor that we won’t ever see, that would at least make for informative viewing. But this is “entertainment” with a side of education. Do you really expect that the show doesn’t have an interest in keeping viewers tuned in?

That said, I was sorry to see Nao leave, thought John’s piece was no less unshocking than any others (and I liked the self-taught feel), wished Judith were around for this particular assignment, and of all the end results, I agree that Abdi’s trio of shrunken heads were the closest to meeting challenge requirements while still being art, not crap.

Now if only Jaclyn would leave her clothes on, that might be surprising.

BigLittleWolf July 1, 2010 at 7:30 pm

I suspect there’s a lot on the virtual cutting room floor that we won’t ever see, that would at least make for informative viewing. But this is “entertainment” with a side of education. Do you really expect that the show doesn’t have an interest in keeping viewers tuned in?

That said, I was sorry to see Nao leave, thought John’s piece was no less unshocking than any others (and I liked the self-taught feel), wished Judith were around for this particular assignment, and of all the end results, I agree that Abdi’s trio of shrunken heads were the closest to meeting challenge requirements while still being art, not crap.

Now if only Jaclyn would leave her clothes on, that might be surprising.

Dain Q Gore July 1, 2010 at 11:54 pm

As much as I love the store, I fail to see what is interesting, compelling or shocking in Nao wearing a Utrecht bag. In order to be shocking, it has to make some kind of sense and have some kind of relevance, at least to me…I guess the squandering of materials and talent is what makes it shocking?

It’s a show, it’s a game, it’s fun and sometimes silly and mean all in the midst of making (or attempting to make) art. It’s simply not the same experience we are watching. After all, they aren’t responsible for our experience of their show!

Dain Q Gore July 1, 2010 at 7:54 pm

As much as I love the store, I fail to see what is interesting, compelling or shocking in Nao wearing a Utrecht bag. In order to be shocking, it has to make some kind of sense and have some kind of relevance, at least to me…I guess the squandering of materials and talent is what makes it shocking?

It’s a show, it’s a game, it’s fun and sometimes silly and mean all in the midst of making (or attempting to make) art. It’s simply not the same experience we are watching. After all, they aren’t responsible for our experience of their show!

Roberta July 2, 2010 at 12:35 am

This show is ridiculous. I cant believe Jerry just asked Paddy for advice.

Roberta July 2, 2010 at 12:35 am

This show is ridiculous. I cant believe Jerry just asked Paddy for advice.

Roberta July 1, 2010 at 8:35 pm

This show is ridiculous. I cant believe Jerry just asked Paddy for advice.

tom moody July 2, 2010 at 12:41 am

Haven’t been following the show but have to note that Paddy Johnson says the five worst artists among 15 remain, and one of the judges asks “which three of those should be in the final cut?” Wha-?

tom moody July 1, 2010 at 8:41 pm

Haven’t been following the show but have to note that Paddy Johnson says the five worst artists among 15 remain, and one of the judges asks “which three of those should be in the final cut?” Wha-?

Art Fag City July 1, 2010 at 10:47 pm

Just to be clear, Jerry Saltz didn’t ask me for advice nor did he ask which of the worst artists should be in the final cut. He just asked for my opinion on which of all the contestants I thought should be in the final three.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 2:47 am

Just to be clear, Jerry Saltz didn’t ask me for advice nor did he ask which of the worst artists should be in the final cut. He just asked for my opinion on which of all the contestants I thought should be in the final three.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 2:47 am

Just to be clear, Jerry Saltz didn’t ask me for advice nor did he ask which of the worst artists should be in the final cut. He just asked for my opinion on which of all the contestants I thought should be in the final three.

Art Fag City July 2, 2010 at 2:47 am

Just to be clear, Jerry Saltz didn’t ask me for advice nor did he ask which of the worst artists should be in the final cut. He just asked for my opinion on which of all the contestants I thought should be in the final three.

Mira Gerard July 2, 2010 at 4:02 am

I’m Man Bartlett on the best three: Trong, Nao, Peregrine. With Judith close on their heels. End of story.

Mira Gerard July 2, 2010 at 12:02 am

I’m Man Bartlett on the best three: Trong, Nao, Peregrine. With Judith close on their heels. End of story.

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 4:32 am

AFC;
Thank you for your post/comments.
I think that Jerry Saltz is a glitchy bot that churns out weak rhetorical pablum.

Thank you.
Jesse P. Martin

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 4:32 am

AFC;
Thank you for your post/comments.
I think that Jerry Saltz is a glitchy bot that churns out weak rhetorical pablum.

Thank you.
Jesse P. Martin

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 12:32 am

AFC;
Thank you for your post/comments.
I think that Jerry Saltz is a glitchy bot that churns out weak rhetorical pablum.

Thank you.
Jesse P. Martin

Trong from the Outside July 2, 2010 at 7:23 am

Actually, I think the most shocking thing the artists could have done would have been banding together and refusing to make anything, and letting the judges try to decide who to kick off based on a bunch of blank walls… Though I wished Jaime and John would have collaborated on a piece about Auto-fellatio and the Last Supper and called it “Jesus Fucking Christ!”:-) I also wanted Abdi to up the jihad a notch and elevate his new age fisting candles by titling them “Mohamed 3, 2, 1″…

SP July 2, 2010 at 11:05 am

Jesus Fucking Christ! I nominate this for best comment ever.

Peregeine from the Inside July 4, 2010 at 5:36 am

The most successful work in the last episode was creepy at best, gross as neutral, and unrealizable at worst. I have enjoyed the conversations I’ve had over the past three days about what shocking is and the ability for shocking to read on an edited television show. The proposed pieces people have suggested if they were in my shoes have ranged from ridiculous to truly insightful. I am watching my”self” develop onscreen alongside my friends and husband. I feel my company’s sorrow as we loose really great minds. I remember the exhaustion in my body, blocking out unfathomable distractions and uninspiring launching pads. I keep a fresh dialogue with artists and writers I respect, including a few I met on the show, to stay grounded. Editing your own dialogue while working to immediately open up in a vacuum takes incredible stamina and I feel destabilized for days after watching each episode.

Trong from the Outside July 2, 2010 at 7:23 am

Actually, I think the most shocking thing the artists could have done would have been banding together and refusing to make anything, and letting the judges try to decide who to kick off based on a bunch of blank walls… Though I wished Jaime and John would have collaborated on a piece about Auto-fellatio and the Last Supper and called it “Jesus Fucking Christ!”:-) I also wanted Abdi to up the jihad a notch and elevate his new age fisting candles by titling them “Mohamed 3, 2, 1″…

Trong from the Outside July 2, 2010 at 3:23 am

Actually, I think the most shocking thing the artists could have done would have been banding together and refusing to make anything, and letting the judges try to decide who to kick off based on a bunch of blank walls… Though I wished Jaime and John would have collaborated on a piece about Auto-fellatio and the Last Supper and called it “Jesus Fucking Christ!”:-) I also wanted Abdi to up the jihad a notch and elevate his new age fisting candles by titling them “Mohamed 3, 2, 1″…

SP July 2, 2010 at 7:05 am

Jesus Fucking Christ! I nominate this for best comment ever.

Peregeine from the Inside July 4, 2010 at 1:36 am

The most successful work in the last episode was creepy at best, gross as neutral, and unrealizable at worst. I have enjoyed the conversations I’ve had over the past three days about what shocking is and the ability for shocking to read on an edited television show. The proposed pieces people have suggested if they were in my shoes have ranged from ridiculous to truly insightful. I am watching my”self” develop onscreen alongside my friends and husband. I feel my company’s sorrow as we loose really great minds. I remember the exhaustion in my body, blocking out unfathomable distractions and uninspiring launching pads. I keep a fresh dialogue with artists and writers I respect, including a few I met on the show, to stay grounded. Editing your own dialogue while working to immediately open up in a vacuum takes incredible stamina and I feel destabilized for days after watching each episode.

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 11:59 am

Trong won.

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 11:59 am

Trong won.

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 11:59 am

Trong won.

Jesse P. Martin July 2, 2010 at 7:59 am

Trong won.

Jacob Pongratz July 2, 2010 at 1:16 pm

Can we just admit that artists are not ready for prime time and will never except populism. This is our thing!

PONGRATZ

Jacob Pongratz July 2, 2010 at 1:16 pm

Can we just admit that artists are not ready for prime time and will never except populism. This is our thing!

PONGRATZ

Jacob Pongratz July 2, 2010 at 1:16 pm

Can we just admit that artists are not ready for prime time and will never except populism. This is our thing!

PONGRATZ

Jacob Pongratz July 2, 2010 at 1:16 pm

Can we just admit that artists are not ready for prime time and will never except populism. This is our thing!

PONGRATZ

Jacob Pongratz July 2, 2010 at 9:16 am

Can we just admit that artists are not ready for prime time and will never except populism. This is our thing!

PONGRATZ

Casino Snacks July 2, 2010 at 5:54 pm

Shocking is so contrived and boring. The last time I was shocked was in ’82 at the Elite Club in SF. Walking to the club, a young woman named Spike was leaning against a wall wearing a homemade shirt with 3 words crudely scrawled into the breast: God Gives Head. At the time, I was punk and worked hard to offend people, but she was the real thing. I’m sure she got her ass kicked everyday for that t-shirt. It was shocking.

Next year Bravo should call the challenge “Ass Kickin’ Art.” They could bring in thugs, conservatives, rednecks and angry Prius liberals to critique the art. If they succeeded in producing shocking art, they would get their ass kicked by the offended party. The fear of violence always brings out the creative juices.

Thank you Patty for the blog. I’m not an art scene guy, but I love reading your blog and I especially love the comments. Art people so love polite discourse, even on the internet.

Casino Snacks July 2, 2010 at 5:54 pm

Shocking is so contrived and boring. The last time I was shocked was in ’82 at the Elite Club in SF. Walking to the club, a young woman named Spike was leaning against a wall wearing a homemade shirt with 3 words crudely scrawled into the breast: God Gives Head. At the time, I was punk and worked hard to offend people, but she was the real thing. I’m sure she got her ass kicked everyday for that t-shirt. It was shocking.

Next year Bravo should call the challenge “Ass Kickin’ Art.” They could bring in thugs, conservatives, rednecks and angry Prius liberals to critique the art. If they succeeded in producing shocking art, they would get their ass kicked by the offended party. The fear of violence always brings out the creative juices.

Thank you Patty for the blog. I’m not an art scene guy, but I love reading your blog and I especially love the comments. Art people so love polite discourse, even on the internet.

Casino Snacks July 2, 2010 at 5:54 pm

Shocking is so contrived and boring. The last time I was shocked was in ’82 at the Elite Club in SF. Walking to the club, a young woman named Spike was leaning against a wall wearing a homemade shirt with 3 words crudely scrawled into the breast: God Gives Head. At the time, I was punk and worked hard to offend people, but she was the real thing. I’m sure she got her ass kicked everyday for that t-shirt. It was shocking.

Next year Bravo should call the challenge “Ass Kickin’ Art.” They could bring in thugs, conservatives, rednecks and angry Prius liberals to critique the art. If they succeeded in producing shocking art, they would get their ass kicked by the offended party. The fear of violence always brings out the creative juices.

Thank you Patty for the blog. I’m not an art scene guy, but I love reading your blog and I especially love the comments. Art people so love polite discourse, even on the internet.

Casino Snacks July 2, 2010 at 1:54 pm

Shocking is so contrived and boring. The last time I was shocked was in ’82 at the Elite Club in SF. Walking to the club, a young woman named Spike was leaning against a wall wearing a homemade shirt with 3 words crudely scrawled into the breast: God Gives Head. At the time, I was punk and worked hard to offend people, but she was the real thing. I’m sure she got her ass kicked everyday for that t-shirt. It was shocking.

Next year Bravo should call the challenge “Ass Kickin’ Art.” They could bring in thugs, conservatives, rednecks and angry Prius liberals to critique the art. If they succeeded in producing shocking art, they would get their ass kicked by the offended party. The fear of violence always brings out the creative juices.

Thank you Patty for the blog. I’m not an art scene guy, but I love reading your blog and I especially love the comments. Art people so love polite discourse, even on the internet.

frances July 2, 2010 at 6:34 pm

this show is so ridiculous, i’ve given up on being the least bit interested in who wins. the whole framework of a show with challenges and deadlines to turn out great – or even interesting – art is problematic. but it’s fun to watch. it’s an artworld equivalent of people magazine, and sure, i’ll skim the threads and watch the clips online, but at the end of the day, when i want actual valid information or opinion, i’m going to buy frieze or parkett or check out afc…

the only thing i dislike is that…the art-making process, as presented on tv, is so…far from what it is for people off tv (even for those artists themselves), and selling that to an audience just seems really un-informative about art, at the end of the day…i just hope it’s conveyed to viewers that this is a game, and what comes out of it isn’t serious or valuable, beyond schlocky pop cultural value…

frances July 2, 2010 at 6:34 pm

this show is so ridiculous, i’ve given up on being the least bit interested in who wins. the whole framework of a show with challenges and deadlines to turn out great – or even interesting – art is problematic. but it’s fun to watch. it’s an artworld equivalent of people magazine, and sure, i’ll skim the threads and watch the clips online, but at the end of the day, when i want actual valid information or opinion, i’m going to buy frieze or parkett or check out afc…

the only thing i dislike is that…the art-making process, as presented on tv, is so…far from what it is for people off tv (even for those artists themselves), and selling that to an audience just seems really un-informative about art, at the end of the day…i just hope it’s conveyed to viewers that this is a game, and what comes out of it isn’t serious or valuable, beyond schlocky pop cultural value…

frances July 2, 2010 at 6:34 pm

this show is so ridiculous, i’ve given up on being the least bit interested in who wins. the whole framework of a show with challenges and deadlines to turn out great – or even interesting – art is problematic. but it’s fun to watch. it’s an artworld equivalent of people magazine, and sure, i’ll skim the threads and watch the clips online, but at the end of the day, when i want actual valid information or opinion, i’m going to buy frieze or parkett or check out afc…

the only thing i dislike is that…the art-making process, as presented on tv, is so…far from what it is for people off tv (even for those artists themselves), and selling that to an audience just seems really un-informative about art, at the end of the day…i just hope it’s conveyed to viewers that this is a game, and what comes out of it isn’t serious or valuable, beyond schlocky pop cultural value…

frances July 2, 2010 at 6:34 pm

this show is so ridiculous, i’ve given up on being the least bit interested in who wins. the whole framework of a show with challenges and deadlines to turn out great – or even interesting – art is problematic. but it’s fun to watch. it’s an artworld equivalent of people magazine, and sure, i’ll skim the threads and watch the clips online, but at the end of the day, when i want actual valid information or opinion, i’m going to buy frieze or parkett or check out afc…

the only thing i dislike is that…the art-making process, as presented on tv, is so…far from what it is for people off tv (even for those artists themselves), and selling that to an audience just seems really un-informative about art, at the end of the day…i just hope it’s conveyed to viewers that this is a game, and what comes out of it isn’t serious or valuable, beyond schlocky pop cultural value…

frances July 2, 2010 at 2:34 pm

this show is so ridiculous, i’ve given up on being the least bit interested in who wins. the whole framework of a show with challenges and deadlines to turn out great – or even interesting – art is problematic. but it’s fun to watch. it’s an artworld equivalent of people magazine, and sure, i’ll skim the threads and watch the clips online, but at the end of the day, when i want actual valid information or opinion, i’m going to buy frieze or parkett or check out afc…

the only thing i dislike is that…the art-making process, as presented on tv, is so…far from what it is for people off tv (even for those artists themselves), and selling that to an audience just seems really un-informative about art, at the end of the day…i just hope it’s conveyed to viewers that this is a game, and what comes out of it isn’t serious or valuable, beyond schlocky pop cultural value…

franny July 2, 2010 at 6:39 pm

oh, i don’t even want to get that sucked into commenting about this show BUT i did wish that i had said that

being someone who does seek further input (on a serious level) by checking out artforum or whatever other form of more ‘high-brow’ information, apart from the portion of the art world watching this show with a dropped jaw, a huge portion of viewers won’t look at further sources for their introduction/knowledge of art…the buck will stop at wanga…eeek

franny July 2, 2010 at 6:39 pm

oh, i don’t even want to get that sucked into commenting about this show BUT i did wish that i had said that

being someone who does seek further input (on a serious level) by checking out artforum or whatever other form of more ‘high-brow’ information, apart from the portion of the art world watching this show with a dropped jaw, a huge portion of viewers won’t look at further sources for their introduction/knowledge of art…the buck will stop at wanga…eeek

franny July 2, 2010 at 6:39 pm

oh, i don’t even want to get that sucked into commenting about this show BUT i did wish that i had said that

being someone who does seek further input (on a serious level) by checking out artforum or whatever other form of more ‘high-brow’ information, apart from the portion of the art world watching this show with a dropped jaw, a huge portion of viewers won’t look at further sources for their introduction/knowledge of art…the buck will stop at wanga…eeek

franny July 2, 2010 at 2:39 pm

oh, i don’t even want to get that sucked into commenting about this show BUT i did wish that i had said that

being someone who does seek further input (on a serious level) by checking out artforum or whatever other form of more ‘high-brow’ information, apart from the portion of the art world watching this show with a dropped jaw, a huge portion of viewers won’t look at further sources for their introduction/knowledge of art…the buck will stop at wanga…eeek

Paul July 2, 2010 at 9:21 pm

This show should really just take it’s cast from undergrad art schools. It would be much more interesting all around. The assignments and time frames given are not unlike the ones you get as a student. Using already established artists makes each artist compromise at some point for some assignment. Not every artist is shocking not every artist makes good junk sculptures.

Besides grab a bunch of 21 – 22 year old kids from art schools all over the world and you get good drama and hopefully some good sexual tension. They would also have potentially more to gain from all of this, exposure, connections, experience. The winning artist gets a gallery contract somewhere decent, final 3 are in a group show somewhere, voila.

Paul July 2, 2010 at 9:21 pm

This show should really just take it’s cast from undergrad art schools. It would be much more interesting all around. The assignments and time frames given are not unlike the ones you get as a student. Using already established artists makes each artist compromise at some point for some assignment. Not every artist is shocking not every artist makes good junk sculptures.

Besides grab a bunch of 21 – 22 year old kids from art schools all over the world and you get good drama and hopefully some good sexual tension. They would also have potentially more to gain from all of this, exposure, connections, experience. The winning artist gets a gallery contract somewhere decent, final 3 are in a group show somewhere, voila.

Paul July 2, 2010 at 9:21 pm

This show should really just take it’s cast from undergrad art schools. It would be much more interesting all around. The assignments and time frames given are not unlike the ones you get as a student. Using already established artists makes each artist compromise at some point for some assignment. Not every artist is shocking not every artist makes good junk sculptures.

Besides grab a bunch of 21 – 22 year old kids from art schools all over the world and you get good drama and hopefully some good sexual tension. They would also have potentially more to gain from all of this, exposure, connections, experience. The winning artist gets a gallery contract somewhere decent, final 3 are in a group show somewhere, voila.

Paul July 2, 2010 at 5:21 pm

This show should really just take it’s cast from undergrad art schools. It would be much more interesting all around. The assignments and time frames given are not unlike the ones you get as a student. Using already established artists makes each artist compromise at some point for some assignment. Not every artist is shocking not every artist makes good junk sculptures.

Besides grab a bunch of 21 – 22 year old kids from art schools all over the world and you get good drama and hopefully some good sexual tension. They would also have potentially more to gain from all of this, exposure, connections, experience. The winning artist gets a gallery contract somewhere decent, final 3 are in a group show somewhere, voila.

Jimbo July 2, 2010 at 10:56 pm

I’m really surprised at how many notes here seem to feel that Judith was unjustly termed. She made it very clear that she wasn’t interested in following the instructions. Also, her work for last week was an inside joke only to her and the author (who reportedly wrote backwards letters). Finally, it was lousy visually. What’s to talk about here guys? I am sorry that Nao never really got her act together. She had great promise. Springer’s Final Thoughts: Remember that Reality TV is the idiot bastard son/daughter of News and Soap Operas. There are some bright moments interspersed between a lot of real dreck.

Anonamoose July 3, 2010 at 3:51 am

When I first heard about the show I looked at every portfolio and bookmarked the ones I liked. Then I stumbled across a page that had a poll asking people who their favorites were. All of my selections were at the very bottom of the poll while all the ones I disliked seemed to be at the top. I was confused as hell, and then I spotted the website url, “homorazzi.com”. Then I realized John was at the top, and he was a homosexual. Is it the same way here? Whats going on? Am I not educated enough to like Trong, Judith, or Naos stuff? I don’t like a majority of Johns stuff, but I did find his time machine book cover visually appealing.

When I read all the discontent about Trong being eliminated, I was like… whhhaaat? He took four tiny tvs.. painted them white.. wrote obscure things on them.. and everyone was surprised he got booted?

Judith made a blanket that said proud pussy on it, a jumbled pile of wires, and a horrible looking powdery mess on construction paper. She’s just too creative for me.

I feel like I can’t even say anything about Nao because she didn’t exactly fit onto the show. Her portrait of miles might have caught my attention for 2 seconds (or 10 if I was smoking weed!). Her little city sculpture was okay, but still not my cup of tea. And her last piece was probably something you’d see being hauled away by cops in a New York train station.

While I liked Johns book cover, his other pieces were pretty drab to me. What was that sculpture anyway? He made it look like an overly gay and overly outdated entertainment system. It wasn’t appealing to me. And finally, he poorly sketched a horrible figure sucking his own dick.

I must be the dumbest person here, cause I sincerely don’t get why most people could even question them leaving unless they were all close friends with the artists.

One thing this show has taught me.. I don’t like what seems like these highbrow artists. Judiths attitude blew in some of the deleted scenes on bravotv.com. And the judges really seem to say unhelpful and stupid things at times.

And this last episode really enforced my opinion that no one should start out a painting with the thought of conveying emotion, shock, or awe first in mind. They should think of composition, color, texture, value, and interest first, if not while pondering the mood.

I like the show.. maybe I like watching the process more than finding out who the winner and losers are.. but the show satisfies my need for artistic inspiration for now. But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.

My favorite contestants on the show, portfolio wise, are probably Abdi, Ryan, Mark, Jaclyn, Peregrine… MAYBE some of Jaime’s stuff. And Erik for being the underdog.. I just want to see him punch one of those judges.. or at least make a piece that amazes them.

Art Fag City July 5, 2010 at 4:16 am

Trong, Judith, Nao and John all made weak work in the challenges where they were eliminated, no question. In all cases though, equally weak work was created by less talented artists. Trong – weak yes, but at least he thought about the work. Jaclyn’s hung tv in an aquarium was completely empty. Judith vs Jaclyn – technically Jaclyn’s was the worse piece. Nao and John — not awesome work, but everyone’s sucked. Why not eliminate the less talented artists?

Also, so far two of the four challenges have been so poorly conceived that the serious artists found the projects completely demoralizing. John was quite clear he wasn’t into the challenge, and Nao, who’s executed legitimately shocking performances didn’t produce one. One can only speculate on the reasons why, but if I were to guess, it’s because any serious artist (but for Andres Serrano) would find that challenge a little too humiliating to complete easily.

The judging is a problem on this show — only Saltz is any good. Simon de Pury is a problem on this show — He’s not a teacher or an artist, he’s an auctioneer and a business man, and therefore almost completely useless in the studio. Most of all, the producers are a problem for this show. They needed to produce a few original challenges, (and land a couple more media partners). The good artists are being eliminated first because the challenges presented shouldn’t have any relationship to a serious artist’s practice. You could argue that about a reality show in general of course, but I guess I had higher hopes for this. I had hoped the show would illuminate what goes on in the studio, and the criteria for creating a successful work of art. If anything, BRAVO confuses the matter.

Anonamoose July 3, 2010 at 3:51 am

When I first heard about the show I looked at every portfolio and bookmarked the ones I liked. Then I stumbled across a page that had a poll asking people who their favorites were. All of my selections were at the very bottom of the poll while all the ones I disliked seemed to be at the top. I was confused as hell, and then I spotted the website url, “homorazzi.com”. Then I realized John was at the top, and he was a homosexual. Is it the same way here? Whats going on? Am I not educated enough to like Trong, Judith, or Naos stuff? I don’t like a majority of Johns stuff, but I did find his time machine book cover visually appealing.

When I read all the discontent about Trong being eliminated, I was like… whhhaaat? He took four tiny tvs.. painted them white.. wrote obscure things on them.. and everyone was surprised he got booted?

Judith made a blanket that said proud pussy on it, a jumbled pile of wires, and a horrible looking powdery mess on construction paper. She’s just too creative for me.

I feel like I can’t even say anything about Nao because she didn’t exactly fit onto the show. Her portrait of miles might have caught my attention for 2 seconds (or 10 if I was smoking weed!). Her little city sculpture was okay, but still not my cup of tea. And her last piece was probably something you’d see being hauled away by cops in a New York train station.

While I liked Johns book cover, his other pieces were pretty drab to me. What was that sculpture anyway? He made it look like an overly gay and overly outdated entertainment system. It wasn’t appealing to me. And finally, he poorly sketched a horrible figure sucking his own dick.

I must be the dumbest person here, cause I sincerely don’t get why most people could even question them leaving unless they were all close friends with the artists.

One thing this show has taught me.. I don’t like what seems like these highbrow artists. Judiths attitude blew in some of the deleted scenes on bravotv.com. And the judges really seem to say unhelpful and stupid things at times.

And this last episode really enforced my opinion that no one should start out a painting with the thought of conveying emotion, shock, or awe first in mind. They should think of composition, color, texture, value, and interest first, if not while pondering the mood.

I like the show.. maybe I like watching the process more than finding out who the winner and losers are.. but the show satisfies my need for artistic inspiration for now. But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.

My favorite contestants on the show, portfolio wise, are probably Abdi, Ryan, Mark, Jaclyn, Peregrine… MAYBE some of Jaime’s stuff. And Erik for being the underdog.. I just want to see him punch one of those judges.. or at least make a piece that amazes them.

Anonamoose July 3, 2010 at 3:51 am

When I first heard about the show I looked at every portfolio and bookmarked the ones I liked. Then I stumbled across a page that had a poll asking people who their favorites were. All of my selections were at the very bottom of the poll while all the ones I disliked seemed to be at the top. I was confused as hell, and then I spotted the website url, “homorazzi.com”. Then I realized John was at the top, and he was a homosexual. Is it the same way here? Whats going on? Am I not educated enough to like Trong, Judith, or Naos stuff? I don’t like a majority of Johns stuff, but I did find his time machine book cover visually appealing.

When I read all the discontent about Trong being eliminated, I was like… whhhaaat? He took four tiny tvs.. painted them white.. wrote obscure things on them.. and everyone was surprised he got booted?

Judith made a blanket that said proud pussy on it, a jumbled pile of wires, and a horrible looking powdery mess on construction paper. She’s just too creative for me.

I feel like I can’t even say anything about Nao because she didn’t exactly fit onto the show. Her portrait of miles might have caught my attention for 2 seconds (or 10 if I was smoking weed!). Her little city sculpture was okay, but still not my cup of tea. And her last piece was probably something you’d see being hauled away by cops in a New York train station.

While I liked Johns book cover, his other pieces were pretty drab to me. What was that sculpture anyway? He made it look like an overly gay and overly outdated entertainment system. It wasn’t appealing to me. And finally, he poorly sketched a horrible figure sucking his own dick.

I must be the dumbest person here, cause I sincerely don’t get why most people could even question them leaving unless they were all close friends with the artists.

One thing this show has taught me.. I don’t like what seems like these highbrow artists. Judiths attitude blew in some of the deleted scenes on bravotv.com. And the judges really seem to say unhelpful and stupid things at times.

And this last episode really enforced my opinion that no one should start out a painting with the thought of conveying emotion, shock, or awe first in mind. They should think of composition, color, texture, value, and interest first, if not while pondering the mood.

I like the show.. maybe I like watching the process more than finding out who the winner and losers are.. but the show satisfies my need for artistic inspiration for now. But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.

My favorite contestants on the show, portfolio wise, are probably Abdi, Ryan, Mark, Jaclyn, Peregrine… MAYBE some of Jaime’s stuff. And Erik for being the underdog.. I just want to see him punch one of those judges.. or at least make a piece that amazes them.

Jimbo July 2, 2010 at 6:56 pm

I’m really surprised at how many notes here seem to feel that Judith was unjustly termed. She made it very clear that she wasn’t interested in following the instructions. Also, her work for last week was an inside joke only to her and the author (who reportedly wrote backwards letters). Finally, it was lousy visually. What’s to talk about here guys? I am sorry that Nao never really got her act together. She had great promise. Springer’s Final Thoughts: Remember that Reality TV is the idiot bastard son/daughter of News and Soap Operas. There are some bright moments interspersed between a lot of real dreck.

Anonamoose July 2, 2010 at 11:51 pm

When I first heard about the show I looked at every portfolio and bookmarked the ones I liked. Then I stumbled across a page that had a poll asking people who their favorites were. All of my selections were at the very bottom of the poll while all the ones I disliked seemed to be at the top. I was confused as hell, and then I spotted the website url, “homorazzi.com”. Then I realized John was at the top, and he was a homosexual. Is it the same way here? Whats going on? Am I not educated enough to like Trong, Judith, or Naos stuff? I don’t like a majority of Johns stuff, but I did find his time machine book cover visually appealing.

When I read all the discontent about Trong being eliminated, I was like… whhhaaat? He took four tiny tvs.. painted them white.. wrote obscure things on them.. and everyone was surprised he got booted?

Judith made a blanket that said proud pussy on it, a jumbled pile of wires, and a horrible looking powdery mess on construction paper. She’s just too creative for me.

I feel like I can’t even say anything about Nao because she didn’t exactly fit onto the show. Her portrait of miles might have caught my attention for 2 seconds (or 10 if I was smoking weed!). Her little city sculpture was okay, but still not my cup of tea. And her last piece was probably something you’d see being hauled away by cops in a New York train station.

While I liked Johns book cover, his other pieces were pretty drab to me. What was that sculpture anyway? He made it look like an overly gay and overly outdated entertainment system. It wasn’t appealing to me. And finally, he poorly sketched a horrible figure sucking his own dick.

I must be the dumbest person here, cause I sincerely don’t get why most people could even question them leaving unless they were all close friends with the artists.

One thing this show has taught me.. I don’t like what seems like these highbrow artists. Judiths attitude blew in some of the deleted scenes on bravotv.com. And the judges really seem to say unhelpful and stupid things at times.

And this last episode really enforced my opinion that no one should start out a painting with the thought of conveying emotion, shock, or awe first in mind. They should think of composition, color, texture, value, and interest first, if not while pondering the mood.

I like the show.. maybe I like watching the process more than finding out who the winner and losers are.. but the show satisfies my need for artistic inspiration for now. But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.

My favorite contestants on the show, portfolio wise, are probably Abdi, Ryan, Mark, Jaclyn, Peregrine… MAYBE some of Jaime’s stuff. And Erik for being the underdog.. I just want to see him punch one of those judges.. or at least make a piece that amazes them.

Art Fag City July 5, 2010 at 12:16 am

Trong, Judith, Nao and John all made weak work in the challenges where they were eliminated, no question. In all cases though, equally weak work was created by less talented artists. Trong – weak yes, but at least he thought about the work. Jaclyn’s hung tv in an aquarium was completely empty. Judith vs Jaclyn – technically Jaclyn’s was the worse piece. Nao and John — not awesome work, but everyone’s sucked. Why not eliminate the less talented artists?

Also, so far two of the four challenges have been so poorly conceived that the serious artists found the projects completely demoralizing. John was quite clear he wasn’t into the challenge, and Nao, who’s executed legitimately shocking performances didn’t produce one. One can only speculate on the reasons why, but if I were to guess, it’s because any serious artist (but for Andres Serrano) would find that challenge a little too humiliating to complete easily.

The judging is a problem on this show — only Saltz is any good. Simon de Pury is a problem on this show — He’s not a teacher or an artist, he’s an auctioneer and a business man, and therefore almost completely useless in the studio. Most of all, the producers are a problem for this show. They needed to produce a few original challenges, (and land a couple more media partners). The good artists are being eliminated first because the challenges presented shouldn’t have any relationship to a serious artist’s practice. You could argue that about a reality show in general of course, but I guess I had higher hopes for this. I had hoped the show would illuminate what goes on in the studio, and the criteria for creating a successful work of art. If anything, BRAVO confuses the matter.

tom moody July 3, 2010 at 2:22 am

Just caught a few minutes of WANGA while surfing around cable. It reminds me a lot of “Ace of Cakes.”

tom moody July 3, 2010 at 6:22 am

Just caught a few minutes of WANGA while surfing around cable. It reminds me a lot of “Ace of Cakes.”

TESS July 3, 2010 at 4:37 pm

Anonamoose,

your post was excellent

TESS July 3, 2010 at 4:37 pm

Anonamoose,

your post was excellent

TESS July 3, 2010 at 12:37 pm

Anonamoose,

your post was excellent

Molly July 3, 2010 at 7:26 pm

Anonymoose – you said “But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.”

There is a show like that. It’s called Art21. All the episodes are on Hulu. I highly recommend it.

Molly July 3, 2010 at 7:26 pm

Anonymoose – you said “But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.”

There is a show like that. It’s called Art21. All the episodes are on Hulu. I highly recommend it.

Molly July 3, 2010 at 7:26 pm

Anonymoose – you said “But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.”

There is a show like that. It’s called Art21. All the episodes are on Hulu. I highly recommend it.

Molly July 3, 2010 at 3:26 pm

Anonymoose – you said “But, I really kind of wish the show wasn’t a competition. Maybe just following the artists through their processes while they work.. Seeing how they live their lives. What inspires them.”

There is a show like that. It’s called Art21. All the episodes are on Hulu. I highly recommend it.

Aaron July 3, 2010 at 8:35 pm

I have mixed feelings about what I’ve seen on the show. For those who have been defending the eliminated artists as a bid to rid the show of it’s better artists, this is my opinion (and I hope it doesn’t come off as anything but):

1- I have my own feelings on performance art. I think that by enlarge is crap. Having said that though, some crap doesn’t smell as bad as others. Nao Bustamente’s performance (at least in this case) was a far cry from good. Bottom line, if you do something and you can’t explain why you did it (even if there reason isn’t more complicated than “All i cared about was getting pure shock”, then it leaves a dry taste for those who have to sit there and listen to a lack of explanation). I think she deserved to go home- fuck it. And you know what? Even she basically said “Ya, it didn’t go over well, but that’s fine.” Sure, I think John should have stayed, but that’s only because someone else happened to have made an even less challenge appropriate work. Frankly if they could have sent 3 people home, John would have been on that list for me anyway. In fact, all of the bottoms were piss poor, but I guess that’s why there were placed how they were. Further more, I disagree with the general association here that the more accomplished artists in this competition are the better ones. Granted, in criticism objectivity is always going to be a problem, but having looked at the previous works, I can’t say that I feel Nao, John, or Judith do anything exceptional or worth note to me. The only reason I feel anything for Trong’s work at all is the morbid curiosity of where is work comes from and why he really does it. Outside of that, eh.

2- Judith was in no way appropriate for this game (and I stress the word GAME). Sure, she wasn’t interested in creating a commercial book cover, but if she was interested in trying to win the show, she should have made making a commercial book cover more of a priority. It doesn’t make her a worse artist, just a shitty competitor. End of story.

3- This thing about Miles being to young to have made enough interesting at the age of 23… can’t say I agree. My opinion may be a bit skewed, I admit, because I belong to the same age bracket. Even so, the lack of success of a young artist is only reflective (I believe in this case) is only due a lack of chances. Had Basquiat not gotten his shot early we may never have heard of him. One of Philip Guston’s most celebrated works was created when he was 17. Please keep in mind, I’m not saying that curators and whom ever else shouldn’t proceed with caution- but even at the ages of 23-25, it doesn’t mean that the artist in question hasn’t been making work for a decade. Of course there is always some risk that a young artist is not yet ripe, but that doesn’t mean that the slightly less mature work isn’t good, or even great. It just means it will presumably get better. The worry that the work will fizzle, dry up, and cease to be good is not exclusive to young artists.

4- People have been ragging on Abdi a lot- and I so so get it. I think he is very talented, but his personal work is weak. The best thing he has going for him in this competition though is that he is excellent at following directions. Case in point- “make something personal that you find shocking”. He did that. It’s hard to judge his work from TV as opposed to having the opportunity to see it in person (like Jerry Saltz did), so I give it the benefit of the doubt for having the appeal it alleges. Also, unlike some of the other competitors, he did an excellent job of explaining, and the fact that it was personal helps. He probably knew very well how to get an A when he took art classes and completed assignments. I have a hard time understanding how it’s possible that so many people manage to miss that connection, and truly look at this as a battle of artistic merit rather than a competition for the “best grade in class”, where the A+ is just a really awesome prize; and just like in art class, following directions + decent to good aesthetic sensibilities and a little talent = A GOOD GRADE. It’s TV people, get over it. And Bravo TV at that. Just because Real Housewives of New Jersey says that the upper crust of NJ is just as trashy as the cast of Jersey Shore doesn’t make it true- just entertaining. Having said that, just because the work makes it in this competition doesn’t make it better art- just appropriate for what the show wants.

4- There were a shit load of responses, so I don’t know if any of them had anything to do Jaclyn “stealing Erik’s ideas”, but my 2 cents on that is at least she followed Picasso’s formula of don’t borrow steal. Call it flattery, Erik. The editor made you look like a big baby.

5- I agree with Paul on the undergrad thing.

I think that about covers most of my feelings on the subject. Thanks AFG for housing my rant. I look forward to the next post.

Aaron

Aaron July 3, 2010 at 8:35 pm

I have mixed feelings about what I’ve seen on the show. For those who have been defending the eliminated artists as a bid to rid the show of it’s better artists, this is my opinion (and I hope it doesn’t come off as anything but):

1- I have my own feelings on performance art. I think that by enlarge is crap. Having said that though, some crap doesn’t smell as bad as others. Nao Bustamente’s performance (at least in this case) was a far cry from good. Bottom line, if you do something and you can’t explain why you did it (even if there reason isn’t more complicated than “All i cared about was getting pure shock”, then it leaves a dry taste for those who have to sit there and listen to a lack of explanation). I think she deserved to go home- fuck it. And you know what? Even she basically said “Ya, it didn’t go over well, but that’s fine.” Sure, I think John should have stayed, but that’s only because someone else happened to have made an even less challenge appropriate work. Frankly if they could have sent 3 people home, John would have been on that list for me anyway. In fact, all of the bottoms were piss poor, but I guess that’s why there were placed how they were. Further more, I disagree with the general association here that the more accomplished artists in this competition are the better ones. Granted, in criticism objectivity is always going to be a problem, but having looked at the previous works, I can’t say that I feel Nao, John, or Judith do anything exceptional or worth note to me. The only reason I feel anything for Trong’s work at all is the morbid curiosity of where is work comes from and why he really does it. Outside of that, eh.

2- Judith was in no way appropriate for this game (and I stress the word GAME). Sure, she wasn’t interested in creating a commercial book cover, but if she was interested in trying to win the show, she should have made making a commercial book cover more of a priority. It doesn’t make her a worse artist, just a shitty competitor. End of story.

3- This thing about Miles being to young to have made enough interesting at the age of 23… can’t say I agree. My opinion may be a bit skewed, I admit, because I belong to the same age bracket. Even so, the lack of success of a young artist is only reflective (I believe in this case) is only due a lack of chances. Had Basquiat not gotten his shot early we may never have heard of him. One of Philip Guston’s most celebrated works was created when he was 17. Please keep in mind, I’m not saying that curators and whom ever else shouldn’t proceed with caution- but even at the ages of 23-25, it doesn’t mean that the artist in question hasn’t been making work for a decade. Of course there is always some risk that a young artist is not yet ripe, but that doesn’t mean that the slightly less mature work isn’t good, or even great. It just means it will presumably get better. The worry that the work will fizzle, dry up, and cease to be good is not exclusive to young artists.

4- People have been ragging on Abdi a lot- and I so so get it. I think he is very talented, but his personal work is weak. The best thing he has going for him in this competition though is that he is excellent at following directions. Case in point- “make something personal that you find shocking”. He did that. It’s hard to judge his work from TV as opposed to having the opportunity to see it in person (like Jerry Saltz did), so I give it the benefit of the doubt for having the appeal it alleges. Also, unlike some of the other competitors, he did an excellent job of explaining, and the fact that it was personal helps. He probably knew very well how to get an A when he took art classes and completed assignments. I have a hard time understanding how it’s possible that so many people manage to miss that connection, and truly look at this as a battle of artistic merit rather than a competition for the “best grade in class”, where the A+ is just a really awesome prize; and just like in art class, following directions + decent to good aesthetic sensibilities and a little talent = A GOOD GRADE. It’s TV people, get over it. And Bravo TV at that. Just because Real Housewives of New Jersey says that the upper crust of NJ is just as trashy as the cast of Jersey Shore doesn’t make it true- just entertaining. Having said that, just because the work makes it in this competition doesn’t make it better art- just appropriate for what the show wants.

4- There were a shit load of responses, so I don’t know if any of them had anything to do Jaclyn “stealing Erik’s ideas”, but my 2 cents on that is at least she followed Picasso’s formula of don’t borrow steal. Call it flattery, Erik. The editor made you look like a big baby.

5- I agree with Paul on the undergrad thing.

I think that about covers most of my feelings on the subject. Thanks AFG for housing my rant. I look forward to the next post.

Aaron

Aaron July 3, 2010 at 8:35 pm

I have mixed feelings about what I’ve seen on the show. For those who have been defending the eliminated artists as a bid to rid the show of it’s better artists, this is my opinion (and I hope it doesn’t come off as anything but):

1- I have my own feelings on performance art. I think that by enlarge is crap. Having said that though, some crap doesn’t smell as bad as others. Nao Bustamente’s performance (at least in this case) was a far cry from good. Bottom line, if you do something and you can’t explain why you did it (even if there reason isn’t more complicated than “All i cared about was getting pure shock”, then it leaves a dry taste for those who have to sit there and listen to a lack of explanation). I think she deserved to go home- fuck it. And you know what? Even she basically said “Ya, it didn’t go over well, but that’s fine.” Sure, I think John should have stayed, but that’s only because someone else happened to have made an even less challenge appropriate work. Frankly if they could have sent 3 people home, John would have been on that list for me anyway. In fact, all of the bottoms were piss poor, but I guess that’s why there were placed how they were. Further more, I disagree with the general association here that the more accomplished artists in this competition are the better ones. Granted, in criticism objectivity is always going to be a problem, but having looked at the previous works, I can’t say that I feel Nao, John, or Judith do anything exceptional or worth note to me. The only reason I feel anything for Trong’s work at all is the morbid curiosity of where is work comes from and why he really does it. Outside of that, eh.

2- Judith was in no way appropriate for this game (and I stress the word GAME). Sure, she wasn’t interested in creating a commercial book cover, but if she was interested in trying to win the show, she should have made making a commercial book cover more of a priority. It doesn’t make her a worse artist, just a shitty competitor. End of story.

3- This thing about Miles being to young to have made enough interesting at the age of 23… can’t say I agree. My opinion may be a bit skewed, I admit, because I belong to the same age bracket. Even so, the lack of success of a young artist is only reflective (I believe in this case) is only due a lack of chances. Had Basquiat not gotten his shot early we may never have heard of him. One of Philip Guston’s most celebrated works was created when he was 17. Please keep in mind, I’m not saying that curators and whom ever else shouldn’t proceed with caution- but even at the ages of 23-25, it doesn’t mean that the artist in question hasn’t been making work for a decade. Of course there is always some risk that a young artist is not yet ripe, but that doesn’t mean that the slightly less mature work isn’t good, or even great. It just means it will presumably get better. The worry that the work will fizzle, dry up, and cease to be good is not exclusive to young artists.

4- People have been ragging on Abdi a lot- and I so so get it. I think he is very talented, but his personal work is weak. The best thing he has going for him in this competition though is that he is excellent at following directions. Case in point- “make something personal that you find shocking”. He did that. It’s hard to judge his work from TV as opposed to having the opportunity to see it in person (like Jerry Saltz did), so I give it the benefit of the doubt for having the appeal it alleges. Also, unlike some of the other competitors, he did an excellent job of explaining, and the fact that it was personal helps. He probably knew very well how to get an A when he took art classes and completed assignments. I have a hard time understanding how it’s possible that so many people manage to miss that connection, and truly look at this as a battle of artistic merit rather than a competition for the “best grade in class”, where the A+ is just a really awesome prize; and just like in art class, following directions + decent to good aesthetic sensibilities and a little talent = A GOOD GRADE. It’s TV people, get over it. And Bravo TV at that. Just because Real Housewives of New Jersey says that the upper crust of NJ is just as trashy as the cast of Jersey Shore doesn’t make it true- just entertaining. Having said that, just because the work makes it in this competition doesn’t make it better art- just appropriate for what the show wants.

4- There were a shit load of responses, so I don’t know if any of them had anything to do Jaclyn “stealing Erik’s ideas”, but my 2 cents on that is at least she followed Picasso’s formula of don’t borrow steal. Call it flattery, Erik. The editor made you look like a big baby.

5- I agree with Paul on the undergrad thing.

I think that about covers most of my feelings on the subject. Thanks AFG for housing my rant. I look forward to the next post.

Aaron

Aaron July 3, 2010 at 4:35 pm

I have mixed feelings about what I’ve seen on the show. For those who have been defending the eliminated artists as a bid to rid the show of it’s better artists, this is my opinion (and I hope it doesn’t come off as anything but):

1- I have my own feelings on performance art. I think that by enlarge is crap. Having said that though, some crap doesn’t smell as bad as others. Nao Bustamente’s performance (at least in this case) was a far cry from good. Bottom line, if you do something and you can’t explain why you did it (even if there reason isn’t more complicated than “All i cared about was getting pure shock”, then it leaves a dry taste for those who have to sit there and listen to a lack of explanation). I think she deserved to go home- fuck it. And you know what? Even she basically said “Ya, it didn’t go over well, but that’s fine.” Sure, I think John should have stayed, but that’s only because someone else happened to have made an even less challenge appropriate work. Frankly if they could have sent 3 people home, John would have been on that list for me anyway. In fact, all of the bottoms were piss poor, but I guess that’s why there were placed how they were. Further more, I disagree with the general association here that the more accomplished artists in this competition are the better ones. Granted, in criticism objectivity is always going to be a problem, but having looked at the previous works, I can’t say that I feel Nao, John, or Judith do anything exceptional or worth note to me. The only reason I feel anything for Trong’s work at all is the morbid curiosity of where is work comes from and why he really does it. Outside of that, eh.

2- Judith was in no way appropriate for this game (and I stress the word GAME). Sure, she wasn’t interested in creating a commercial book cover, but if she was interested in trying to win the show, she should have made making a commercial book cover more of a priority. It doesn’t make her a worse artist, just a shitty competitor. End of story.

3- This thing about Miles being to young to have made enough interesting at the age of 23… can’t say I agree. My opinion may be a bit skewed, I admit, because I belong to the same age bracket. Even so, the lack of success of a young artist is only reflective (I believe in this case) is only due a lack of chances. Had Basquiat not gotten his shot early we may never have heard of him. One of Philip Guston’s most celebrated works was created when he was 17. Please keep in mind, I’m not saying that curators and whom ever else shouldn’t proceed with caution- but even at the ages of 23-25, it doesn’t mean that the artist in question hasn’t been making work for a decade. Of course there is always some risk that a young artist is not yet ripe, but that doesn’t mean that the slightly less mature work isn’t good, or even great. It just means it will presumably get better. The worry that the work will fizzle, dry up, and cease to be good is not exclusive to young artists.

4- People have been ragging on Abdi a lot- and I so so get it. I think he is very talented, but his personal work is weak. The best thing he has going for him in this competition though is that he is excellent at following directions. Case in point- “make something personal that you find shocking”. He did that. It’s hard to judge his work from TV as opposed to having the opportunity to see it in person (like Jerry Saltz did), so I give it the benefit of the doubt for having the appeal it alleges. Also, unlike some of the other competitors, he did an excellent job of explaining, and the fact that it was personal helps. He probably knew very well how to get an A when he took art classes and completed assignments. I have a hard time understanding how it’s possible that so many people manage to miss that connection, and truly look at this as a battle of artistic merit rather than a competition for the “best grade in class”, where the A+ is just a really awesome prize; and just like in art class, following directions + decent to good aesthetic sensibilities and a little talent = A GOOD GRADE. It’s TV people, get over it. And Bravo TV at that. Just because Real Housewives of New Jersey says that the upper crust of NJ is just as trashy as the cast of Jersey Shore doesn’t make it true- just entertaining. Having said that, just because the work makes it in this competition doesn’t make it better art- just appropriate for what the show wants.

4- There were a shit load of responses, so I don’t know if any of them had anything to do Jaclyn “stealing Erik’s ideas”, but my 2 cents on that is at least she followed Picasso’s formula of don’t borrow steal. Call it flattery, Erik. The editor made you look like a big baby.

5- I agree with Paul on the undergrad thing.

I think that about covers most of my feelings on the subject. Thanks AFG for housing my rant. I look forward to the next post.

Aaron

Michelle July 4, 2010 at 3:00 am

I am LIVID that Nao is gone even though she did not deliver a particularly shocking work. I am not sure how any of the remaining artists will be able to deliver a really worthwhile show at the Brooklyn Museum either due to being at the beginning of their career or not being very captivating as artists. Since that is a major prize, it would make better sense, if not better television, to have the artists just make their own work.

Michelle July 3, 2010 at 11:00 pm

I am LIVID that Nao is gone even though she did not deliver a particularly shocking work. I am not sure how any of the remaining artists will be able to deliver a really worthwhile show at the Brooklyn Museum either due to being at the beginning of their career or not being very captivating as artists. Since that is a major prize, it would make better sense, if not better television, to have the artists just make their own work.

Allan July 5, 2010 at 5:50 am

They got rid of the best artists and annoying Miles is still on the show. I’ve seen his portraits in past Interview magazines in the 90’s. And the sleeping artwork, I don’t get. Art is supposed to make you feel something, I felt more from Trong’s television. Ironically, he’s playing the camera and the judges.

This is based solely on who they think are going to make good tv. John and Judith were the most interesting artists. John’s shocking painting was damn good. I thought it was courageous. Everyone’s were safe. And past judgements like that awesome cover for The Time Machine should count for something. Just like it does, most of the time, in Top Chef.

Judith made me laugh so hard with that Pride and Prejudice artwork, which was actully interesting to me. I actually like Jamie Lynn’s drawing style as well. Esp. the Dracula for the book challenge. And her view of Christianity is refreshing, because that’s how most Christians I know are. I think she’s the next to go. But I most likely won’t be there to watch it.

Allan July 5, 2010 at 1:50 am

They got rid of the best artists and annoying Miles is still on the show. I’ve seen his portraits in past Interview magazines in the 90’s. And the sleeping artwork, I don’t get. Art is supposed to make you feel something, I felt more from Trong’s television. Ironically, he’s playing the camera and the judges.

This is based solely on who they think are going to make good tv. John and Judith were the most interesting artists. John’s shocking painting was damn good. I thought it was courageous. Everyone’s were safe. And past judgements like that awesome cover for The Time Machine should count for something. Just like it does, most of the time, in Top Chef.

Judith made me laugh so hard with that Pride and Prejudice artwork, which was actully interesting to me. I actually like Jamie Lynn’s drawing style as well. Esp. the Dracula for the book challenge. And her view of Christianity is refreshing, because that’s how most Christians I know are. I think she’s the next to go. But I most likely won’t be there to watch it.

Fanni Tutti July 5, 2010 at 6:04 pm

Peregrine is cut soon. Judith, get gone. Abdi, your big teeth are odd, your art is weak. Why do they give you so much screen time? Mark is a passable commercialist. Miles is an artist. His OCD is BS. Nao, you smell of academia.

Fanni Tutti July 5, 2010 at 2:04 pm

Peregrine is cut soon. Judith, get gone. Abdi, your big teeth are odd, your art is weak. Why do they give you so much screen time? Mark is a passable commercialist. Miles is an artist. His OCD is BS. Nao, you smell of academia.

Matthew Choberka July 6, 2010 at 3:50 pm

I’m hating this show, way beyond the enjoyable “love-to-hate” that sometimes can accompany reality-TV, but I do feel a kind of professional obligation to keep up with it, to know just how badly our field is being misrepresented here. It actually makes one wonder, do other shows that purport to give a glimpse into a discipline or profession also fail so miserably? Comparisons to Top Chef, say, are maybe illuminating…I noticed the other day that far more time and specificity was devoted on TC to critique, to discussion of what made dishes work, or not…crits are glided over on “Work” in the worst way.

Matthew Choberka July 6, 2010 at 11:50 am

I’m hating this show, way beyond the enjoyable “love-to-hate” that sometimes can accompany reality-TV, but I do feel a kind of professional obligation to keep up with it, to know just how badly our field is being misrepresented here. It actually makes one wonder, do other shows that purport to give a glimpse into a discipline or profession also fail so miserably? Comparisons to Top Chef, say, are maybe illuminating…I noticed the other day that far more time and specificity was devoted on TC to critique, to discussion of what made dishes work, or not…crits are glided over on “Work” in the worst way.

Claire July 7, 2010 at 12:38 am

What’s disappointing to me in this shock art episode which included Andres Serrano as a guest artist is Bravo’s censorship of the art that was created. If you are asking artists to create work which is shocking, and have a guest judge who has had to fight censorship of his own work, why would you then have the audacity to cover portions of artwork like the penis in John’s painting for example? Total hypocrisy! Maybe the artists could paint clothes on the figures of the Sistine chapel for next weeks challenge? I also thought that the critique of Noa’s piece was unfair. I found her performance to be very interesting and although she could not verbalize the main idea of her piece, doesn’t every viewer bring their own experience to a work of art? I though Andres interpretation was very interesting and an appropriate response and critique of her work, and also shared his viewpoint. Remember that artists do not stand around at museums defending and explaining their work to viewers.

Claire July 6, 2010 at 8:38 pm

What’s disappointing to me in this shock art episode which included Andres Serrano as a guest artist is Bravo’s censorship of the art that was created. If you are asking artists to create work which is shocking, and have a guest judge who has had to fight censorship of his own work, why would you then have the audacity to cover portions of artwork like the penis in John’s painting for example? Total hypocrisy! Maybe the artists could paint clothes on the figures of the Sistine chapel for next weeks challenge? I also thought that the critique of Noa’s piece was unfair. I found her performance to be very interesting and although she could not verbalize the main idea of her piece, doesn’t every viewer bring their own experience to a work of art? I though Andres interpretation was very interesting and an appropriate response and critique of her work, and also shared his viewpoint. Remember that artists do not stand around at museums defending and explaining their work to viewers.

Aaron July 7, 2010 at 4:03 pm

Claire- I agree with you, to a point
The censorship thing- Bravo TV is Bravo TV. Theres not much else to it. I agree that, especially given its lack of actual realism, it seems almost funny to censor it. In any case with regard to Nao’s piece, as I said in my prior response, I’m a strong believer that even if you say something as simple as “the only idea behind this was to be shocking” or “I wanted the shock to come from the viewer’s interpretation” its a million times better than “beats me, I just did it.” And while its true that artists dont stand around in museums or galleries defending what the work is about, often that job/message is passed through the gallerist or curator. And, frankly, if said “arts professional” isn’t able to understand a work’s message or purpose, it makes the ability to sell it (or sell its cultural value) to anyone that comes in and see’s it. Once it loses that, it becomes worthless for the shower to show it. In my experience, it’s very hard to talk about something passionately when you have no idea what its about (or not about).

Aaron July 7, 2010 at 12:03 pm

Claire- I agree with you, to a point
The censorship thing- Bravo TV is Bravo TV. Theres not much else to it. I agree that, especially given its lack of actual realism, it seems almost funny to censor it. In any case with regard to Nao’s piece, as I said in my prior response, I’m a strong believer that even if you say something as simple as “the only idea behind this was to be shocking” or “I wanted the shock to come from the viewer’s interpretation” its a million times better than “beats me, I just did it.” And while its true that artists dont stand around in museums or galleries defending what the work is about, often that job/message is passed through the gallerist or curator. And, frankly, if said “arts professional” isn’t able to understand a work’s message or purpose, it makes the ability to sell it (or sell its cultural value) to anyone that comes in and see’s it. Once it loses that, it becomes worthless for the shower to show it. In my experience, it’s very hard to talk about something passionately when you have no idea what its about (or not about).

Jesse P. Martin July 7, 2010 at 1:31 pm

There are fewer forms of writing (or address) less contemptible, aggravating, and befuddling than the artist’s statement. Explanations of what a work is “about” – especially if they’re forged and condensed for a dealer or docent to explain or justify a work’s “value,” “cultural” or otherwise – should not be taken as scripture or a way in which to access a work’s proper “meaning.” Promoting this as how art is “supposed” to be understood only reinforces the peddling of more didactic, prescriptive work and wrongheaded faith in anything that’s slickly sound-byted. Hence, WANGA.

There are so many ways to view, write, think, make, and talk about art. Surprisingly (?), the conversations about WANGA have been fairly repetitive, although the amount of people who want to talk/write about it is inversely-proportional to the quality of what’s being discussed. So, bravo Bravo for “expanding” the “dialogue” about “art.” But the fact that WANGA is such a confusing nightmarish cartoon shitball is actually the best thing about it, because at least it’s reaffirmed that art is one of the more unwieldy, shape-shifting “themes” to contend with.

Jesse P. Martin July 7, 2010 at 5:31 pm

There are fewer forms of writing (or address) less contemptible, aggravating, and befuddling than the artist’s statement. Explanations of what a work is “about” – especially if they’re forged and condensed for a dealer or docent to explain or justify a work’s “value,” “cultural” or otherwise – should not be taken as scripture or a way in which to access a work’s proper “meaning.” Promoting this as how art is “supposed” to be understood only reinforces the peddling of more didactic, prescriptive work and wrongheaded faith in anything that’s slickly sound-byted. Hence, WANGA.

There are so many ways to view, write, think, make, and talk about art. Surprisingly (?), the conversations about WANGA have been fairly repetitive, although the amount of people who want to talk/write about it is inversely-proportional to the quality of what’s being discussed. So, bravo Bravo for “expanding” the “dialogue” about “art.” But the fact that WANGA is such a confusing nightmarish cartoon shitball is actually the best thing about it, because at least it’s reaffirmed that art is one of the more unwieldy, shape-shifting “themes” to contend with.

Judith Braun July 7, 2010 at 9:10 pm

I know this may be a petty point to some, but it’s bugged me this week. That opening statement in episode 4, by Miles…that he “finally got a good night’s sleep since I was gone”…and “didn’t have to fake anymore bathroom breaks to get away from me”. It’s total BS….since we had exactly ONE conversation while I was on the show, the one they used a clip of. That was it, PERIOD. We had about zero contact. He’s a fucking liar!

Judith Braun July 7, 2010 at 5:10 pm

I know this may be a petty point to some, but it’s bugged me this week. That opening statement in episode 4, by Miles…that he “finally got a good night’s sleep since I was gone”…and “didn’t have to fake anymore bathroom breaks to get away from me”. It’s total BS….since we had exactly ONE conversation while I was on the show, the one they used a clip of. That was it, PERIOD. We had about zero contact. He’s a fucking liar!

rafa July 15, 2010 at 11:08 am

i find it funny when they call eachother douchebags. like they’re both douchebags

rafa July 15, 2010 at 7:08 am

i find it funny when they call eachother douchebags. like they’re both douchebags

thelakeeffect August 3, 2010 at 2:11 pm

Am posting this a day before I will view a DVR’d last episode.

Noting that the last comment above appears to be posted 2 weeks ago. People should catch up!!!

LOTS has happened on this show…(see the official website…)

Last week, in the “Opposites” episode…the judges’ decisions seemed too arbitrary.

Mark got the axe…

Don’t think he necessarily would have deserved to win the whole thing, but I was generally NOT impressed with his portfolio but was mostly IMPRESSED with his work for the show (If there’s a MOST IMPROVED category—MARK would win)! Wish I could have seen his whole bookfor the Child ARt thing. Is it on Bravo’s site??? And I just missed it?

Nicole still least known..Not impressed with her toenail thing, her styrofoam pencil thing, and just moderately impressed with her outside art thing (Looks like a cousin of Mark’s multisurface book art thing).

Peregrine…She has decent watercolor skills (as seen in her portfolio) but her anatomical skills are lacking (Observe the arms on many of the women she’s painted…Not quite correct.) Sorry,but that BUGS me.

She lacks depth and range in her viewed work…On the show so far…Only One piece (reminiscent of her rather unstructured childhood) is scary & moving.

Otherwise…”yawn”.

I didn’t know her much—but was NOT impressed by how she directed her last episode’s art partner.Mark..and then he was kicked out instead of her. Did her probably different (or even lacking) religious education mean…she had no real concept of heaven & hell???

The judging sometimes makes general sense….(as in thebook cover episode…even the child episode) but here judging was random.

Is this show just not a fair test of art judging? Or are the NY judges always so random???

thelakeeffect August 3, 2010 at 10:11 am

Am posting this a day before I will view a DVR’d last episode.

Noting that the last comment above appears to be posted 2 weeks ago. People should catch up!!!

LOTS has happened on this show…(see the official website…)

Last week, in the “Opposites” episode…the judges’ decisions seemed too arbitrary.

Mark got the axe…

Don’t think he necessarily would have deserved to win the whole thing, but I was generally NOT impressed with his portfolio but was mostly IMPRESSED with his work for the show (If there’s a MOST IMPROVED category—MARK would win)! Wish I could have seen his whole bookfor the Child ARt thing. Is it on Bravo’s site??? And I just missed it?

Nicole still least known..Not impressed with her toenail thing, her styrofoam pencil thing, and just moderately impressed with her outside art thing (Looks like a cousin of Mark’s multisurface book art thing).

Peregrine…She has decent watercolor skills (as seen in her portfolio) but her anatomical skills are lacking (Observe the arms on many of the women she’s painted…Not quite correct.) Sorry,but that BUGS me.

She lacks depth and range in her viewed work…On the show so far…Only One piece (reminiscent of her rather unstructured childhood) is scary & moving.

Otherwise…”yawn”.

I didn’t know her much—but was NOT impressed by how she directed her last episode’s art partner.Mark..and then he was kicked out instead of her. Did her probably different (or even lacking) religious education mean…she had no real concept of heaven & hell???

The judging sometimes makes general sense….(as in thebook cover episode…even the child episode) but here judging was random.

Is this show just not a fair test of art judging? Or are the NY judges always so random???

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