Fittingly it was in an exhibition at Arthouse called Animations back in 2007 that I first saw the work of David Shrigley. The show had traveled from the Hammer Museum, was curated by James Elaine and was my first opportunity to see the quality work Arthouse brings to the Austin art scene. Now Shrigley has created a public service announcement to save the Arts in the UK. It is sharp, funny and relevant whether he is talking about London, Austin or Timbuktu.
The new VAC on the UT campus is now complete and after a $5 million renovation they still need a program budget to fill all of that beautiful space. Join them for their grand opening celebration September 24-26. With ticket options of $150 Friday night to $30 (or free with UT id) on Saturday and Sunday open to the public with events scheduled from noon till 9pm everyone should be able to find a way to give. More information is available on the VAC website .
Arthouse at the Jones Center is the oldest statewide contemporary arts center in Texas with roots that go back some 98 years. Help celebrate their reopening on October 22nd with a grand party tickets are $1000 a pop and if that’s too steep for your blood then try buying an artist/student/educator membership like I did for $20. Offer good until October 8th, 2010 and gives lots of perks in addition to a warm fuzzy glow.
And this Thursday September 16 at Women and Their Work swing by the Red Dot Art Spree for more than 200 works of art for $500 or less!
Whatever your taste or financial level these three very different institutions fulfill varying needs in our community and deserve our continued support. Despite the appearances of fancy new buildings and/or ambitious programming these spaces are at a fragile point and will not survive without our enthusiasm as well as our money. The I LIVE HERE I GIVE HERE campaign shouldn’t exclude the arts.