When I initially submitted our entries (the previous week), I couldn't help but notice the other artists work. As you would expect the overall standard was exceptionally high. However this didn't phase me as I knew our artwork was up there with the best of them. The thing that really struck me was that ours were the only "digital art" entries. All the other 2D submissions were created using traditional media ie. paint, pen, pencil or photograph.
Slightly perturbed I continued to unwrap our artwork under the watchful gaze of the event staff. Once the wall arts were fully revealed in all there shiny high gloss glory they were greeted with quizzical interest and a couple of muffled "wows".
There then followed an impromptu "Q & A" session regarding how they were produced which also included several members of the public who had wondered into the gallery for a better look!
Maybe my initial preconceptions were wrong. Could digital art really be accepted by the "traditional" art world!
My question was partially answered at the Open Exhibition preview event. We turned up at the studios only to discover our wall arts taking prime position in the studio windows. This was received with mixed feelings. On one hand it was fantastic statement by the exhibition organisers who obviously thought they would catch the eye of the general public and also act as "front of house" showcase for the rest of the art within.
On the negative side the wall arts were facing away from the throng of art critics and visitors inside. I couldn't help but feel this was partially intended.
To conclude, I felt Bar Lane Studios made a brave and astute decision to exhibit our work. They may not of entirely understood our concept (or medium) but they certainly new our work would attract a new breed of visitor.
