What is the Portrait Project?
A few years ago, Howard Gladstone, a talented painter, sculptor and filmmaker dreamed up an idea of assembling a group of artists that would concentrate on portraiture. Culling from his wide array of contacts in the New York art world, Howard offered painters, sculptors and photographers the opportunity to portray one another free from the encumbrances of commissions.
Portraiture, a vital window into the eyes of both artist and sitter is too often brought down by demands of sitters who place too much emphasis on a finished result.
Howard's idea was to utilize a community of artists who could create portraits in one's own manner and expression. Each artist was free to interpret the sitter in their own way. The only parameter of the project was that all work be done amongst the group itself.
Throughout, the artists were given the opportunity to set up sessions to portray one another. A close bonded community was formed revelling in the co-operative nature of being both model and artist for one another.
An exhibit at the Alex Adam Gallery during The Harlem Art Walk (October12-13) will be the first result of the Portrait Project's progress. Artist and educator Jonathan Shahn, as curatorial advisor, will choose from the many works created in various mediums.
Frances Middendorf
A few years ago, Howard Gladstone, a talented painter, sculptor and filmmaker dreamed up an idea of assembling a group of artists that would concentrate on portraiture. Culling from his wide array of contacts in the New York art world, Howard offered painters, sculptors and photographers the opportunity to portray one another free from the encumbrances of commissions.
Portraiture, a vital window into the eyes of both artist and sitter is too often brought down by demands of sitters who place too much emphasis on a finished result.
Howard's idea was to utilize a community of artists who could create portraits in one's own manner and expression. Each artist was free to interpret the sitter in their own way. The only parameter of the project was that all work be done amongst the group itself.
Throughout, the artists were given the opportunity to set up sessions to portray one another. A close bonded community was formed revelling in the co-operative nature of being both model and artist for one another.
An exhibit at the Alex Adam Gallery during The Harlem Art Walk (October12-13) will be the first result of the Portrait Project's progress. Artist and educator Jonathan Shahn, as curatorial advisor, will choose from the many works created in various mediums.
Frances Middendorf