Art on Fondy--- Installation

Greetings Fans!

Well, it’s official… All of the hard work for the Art-On-Fondy Project has paid off. As promised I am including photos from the installation. Special thanks goes to Joe and Anwar (fellow artists) for their help and documentation of the project. Along with, Byron from Sherman Park Senior Living Center for his extra help as well!

As you can see, my intent separates the image into parts. The amazing thing, the information that is missing, becomes filled by our brains! Cool, huh? (Pardon my neuroscience geek moment.)

installing

Here is a brief behind the scenes moment, I worked with EpicColor, a local company, for all my printing needs. They were WONDERFUL!! And might I add patient as I attempted to convey my concept from my head to my mouth. Although, they warned me, while they tried to keep the image strips in order, they possibly shuffled a bit, because they became a little confused with all the patterns and text. Needless to say, I actually assembled the image on the ground, before installing it formerly between the bars to be sure I kept things in order!

Picking up the images!

Organize First!

STAY ORGANIZED!

Installing

Extra Help!

Life became A LOT easier at the Curative Care Network site, since this image was a solid piece.

The last few images include my photograph, along with the models! Such a treat!!

Until, next time friends… see you in the newspaper or in the Twitterverse @FotoFans

IN:SITE Art on Fondy

Hello Fans, 

So I have been keeping this project pretty close to the vest, but now... the word is getting out. 

 

A "sneak peak" of one of the images used!

So here is strike 2, ironically, in my own words. Please take a minute to read the latest with regards to my participation in the Art of Fondy Project. I will be completing a public art installation at Sherman Park Senior Living Center (formerly Jackie Robinson Middle School) and Curative Care Network, entitled Life in Retrospect. 

https://neighborhood-artfair.squarespace.com/blog/2013/5/24/laci-coppins-life-in-retrospect

The experience has been one that I have learned so much from!! Pegi Christian, the project organizer and one of the founders of IN:SITE is beyond awesome! I am really thankful for this new opportunity. My images actually went to print this week!! Just wait... they will be close to 40x60 inches each! This is the first time I have ever printed this large! *pins and needles*

The project as a whole was also featured in JSOnline, our local city paper: http://www.jsonline.com/entertainment/arts/fond-du-lac-ave-art-project-brightens-a-dark-milwaukee-intersection-b9928955z1-210768511.html 

The community is excited and welcoming of this endeavor. I am excited too! Be sure and stay up to date by following me on Twitter @FotoFans I promise to include images from the installation set for the 22nd!

Until next time...

The Personal is Political: Martha Wilson and MKE

Greetings Fans! 

Guess whose been a busy little bee? I have "3 HUGE STRIKES" better known as projects coming up in the next month, but trust me, this girl is NO TURKEY!  I wanted to start at the very beginning and invite you to the first one... 

Please join me for my new group show-- opening at the Portrait Society Gallery June 8th (running through July 14th)!

Portrait Society Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition that brings together the contemporary work of feminist artist Martha Wilson with regional artists responding to her influential practice.

Also exhibiting are: Laci Coppins, Paul Druecke, Skully Gustafson, Ashley Janke, Niki Johnson, Erik Moore, Joseph Mougel, Amy O’Neill, and Rafael Salas.

Local artists were asked to use the catalog, Martha Wilson Sourcebook, as inspiration for their own work. The catalog was prepared by the artist in conjunction with her touring retrospective (concurrently at Inova). (The book was reviewed in the May 2013 Art News).

GALLERY HOURS: Thursday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment

To read more about the exibition as awhole, visit here: http://portraitsocietygallery.com/2013/05/27/the-personal-is-political-martha-wilson-and-mke/

Don't forget to stay up with the latest by following me on Twitter @FotoFans

Entwined continues through March 2nd

Salon: The Opening

Greetings Fans,

Friday, October 5th was the opening of the MARNSalon: Free Money exhibition. The event was steadily attended and I had about 20 people come by personally to show their support. The exhibition is slated to be up until November 3rd. Take a peak and perhaps you will be able to stop by...

Moments in Between I

Moments in Between II

Waiting for Santa Claus

There will be a public Coffeee & Critque on Satuday (10/13) 11-2pm. The MARN Gallery is open Monday & Tuesday 12-5pm, Thursday & Friday 12-6pm and Saturdays 10-4pm. And of course art objects are for sale, so feel free to bring cash.

Salon: The Installation

Greetings Fans!

Yesterday evening I began the installation process with the guest (protege) curator. I have had the opportunity to meet and work with several gallery curators (some also artists), but being an emerging artist you typically self-curate. Also in my job at the Museum, I have several opportunities, dare I say daily, to interact with/have conversation, etc with professional (terminal degree having, experts in a specific field) curators.

One thing I have not experienced was my work being altered from my true intent as the artist and the concept of the installation-- until last night.After placing 29 of the 50 requested 3" x 5" images, I was told this wasn't what SHE was looking for. To say I was totally taken back is an understatement. I wasn't sure how best to respond, but did my best to remain professional. While I preferred my work to form more of grid, SHE preferred a more scattered approach. This is an interactive piece, that as images are sold, people will remove the image right from the wall, leaving a vacant space, a since of wondering, dare I say loss? However, HER intent is to scatter the pieces, remove the connections and associations and leave them there random. And yes, while people will still be able to purchase and remove accordingly, the sense of emptiness and loss is gone and nor implied.

Tomorrow is the opening of the exhibition, it will be interesting to see the response by viewers. I am most certain the question will be presented, "Why are these pictures installed like this?" My response, "I'm not sure, you should probably ask HER, since it wasn't my intent or idea."

Salon: The Visit

Greetings Fans,

This is the second installment of my experience in the Milwaukee Artist Resource Network Salon II: "Free Money." You can read the details in the post Salon: The Beginning. 

Yesterday morning, I had my curatorial visit with MARN curator protege Ana Hansa-Ogren. During the visit I shared past and current projects. In addition, we also discussed the current state of my work, and how specific pieces would connect to the topic (Free Money) that will be facilitated by guest curator Michelle Grabner.

I found the experience very interesting. This is only my second studio visit and both times the curator has selected work that I did not think of as my favorite and the last time the curator selected a work in process (YIKES!).

Ana and I discussed a number of items in her selections, because it was important the pieces correlate with the other three artists in the exhibition.One series she elected are my photographic transfers on plexiglass. I had these pieces in local shows, as well as a show in Nashville. For the larger pieces, this will be the first showing in Milwaukee. So that's exciting...

The second series is a little more complicated. Over the years, I have been capturing what I like to call "Moments in Between." These are the small moments, the breaths between one instance to the next.The randomness of my interests and things that catch my eye. My pure selfish indulgences. I had several posted up in my space as source material and have shown three of these formally. These also caught Ana's eye! I never would of imagined sharing the bulk of them publicly. According to Ana they show, the "Intelligence of the snapshot. A distilled personal moment." Wow, that sounds beautiful... I love how she has described my act of looking.

Opening October 5th, about 50 of these images, along with the transfers, will be on view. I am slated to drop the work off next week and installation will begin shortly there after. Stay tuned...

Salon: The Beginning

Greetings Fans! 

Will you join me in celebration? On Sunday afternoon I received the following email: "Congratulations, I am pleased to inform you of your acceptance into the MARNsalonII (Free Money) with guest curator Michelle Grabner!" 

MARN is the Milwakee Artist Resource Network. A Salon which began in Paris, is described by Wikipedia as, "The Salon or rarely Paris Salon (Salon de Paris), beginning in 1725 the official art exhibition of the Academie des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France. Between 1748-1890 it was the greatest annual or biannual art event in the Western world. In December 1890, the leader of the Societe des Artistes Francais, William Adolphe Bouguereau, propagated the idea that Salon should be an exhibition of young, yet not awarded artists." A salon is also known as a gathering of people under the guide of an inspiring host (guest curator in this case), to refine the taste and increase the knowledge of the participants through conversation.

TA-DA!! That pretty much brings us to 2012. Your's truly has been blessed and selected to participate in the Milwaukee Artist Resource Network's Salon. I was personally invited to submit application, but still felt unsure. Needless to say, I have been personally invited before to apply for other "competitive" style fellowships, awards, etc. and not come out successfully. Several of you know, one of my motto's (one of the reason's I had the confidence to go to Italy), "What would you attempt to do, if you knew you could not fail?" And so I applied... and was accepted!

Will you join me as I share this journey?

Please start by visiting my personal portfolio at MARN. You can also support my efforts through this page. At this point, I have replied and accepted MY SPOT in the Salon! I am one of only four artists that will be featured. *swoon* In the next two weeks I will have a studio visit from MARN's curator Ana Hansa-Ogren as we begin the process in sharing, "a chance to spark critical dialogue in Milwaukee and share [my] creative practice with other artists and art professionals." Oh, and of course make work! I look forward to sharing this journey with you...

Beach Blanket Bingo

Greetings Fans,

 Annette welcomes you to my new space!

As you may recall, my artist residency will conclude on August 31st. The conclusion also means a need for a new studio space.

Last weekend I met with Mark David Gray about Studio 420b and this weekend I started moving in. My new location is where the north side of meets the south side of Milwaukee, better known as the 5th ward.


While I still have a few items left "across the line" it is exciting to think of what awaits in this new space.  I will be one of 4 artists (painter, graffiti artist, illustrator and me!) Believe it or not,  I am already finishing a piece in prep for the Walker's Point Center for the Arts Members show opening September 7th.I will be having a formal open house once I get a little more settled and inviting friends to make some art!

items left across the line

items left across the line

 In some ways this new space is similar to REDLine. A group of artists, sharing a space, making art. Although, there are some ways that it is quite different. The space is very open and all on one floor. Which was quite the blessing after moving up and down three flights of steps. In addition, the space being open, the "walls" have been created to assist in dividing the space. I love the sky lights and all the natural light that comes with...I spent some of the morning reorganizing and organizing my space. Fingers crossed this lasts.. 

my new space neat and organized!

my corner of inspiration

Mixed Emotions...

Hello Foto Fans!

During the past three years I have had the pleasure of being a resident artist with a local organization called REDLine, Milwaukee.  I first heard of this organization after attending a formal portfolio review. I had only been in back in Milwaukee a few months and had no intention of staying-- I was headed to New York City! Well, best laid plans, right? Unable to find funding for the program at ICP, I remained in Wisconsin, trying to figure out what to do next.

So again, hearing about REDLine, Milwaukee, touring the space, I could quickly see this was a special place and I decided to apply. I had made up my mind, if I was accepted, I will stay in Milwaukee and if not, I was heading back to Nashville. I really thought it was a long shot, as I compared myself to the other residents currently in place. Well, I was accepted... at the end of the two years, I applied for an optional third year and was accepted again. During my time I have grown as an artist and as a person...

(c)2012 laci coppins

Yesterday evening marked my final exhibition as a resident artist. I shared work that focused on a reflection of memory and loss. The conceptual foundation was rooted in the house fire, of the home my mother grew up in. The house that my uncle was currently living in with his family. This fire took place a year ago to the day of the exhibition reception. The installation, as pictured, used items from the home and encouraged interaction. My submission also included a triptych of photos and a sculpture created from discarded glass windows. The evening was filled with friends from my runners club, book club, fellow artists, colleagues from the Milwaukee Art Museum and of course family. I felt so loved and grateful to have shared this experience with each of them. And why I did fight back tears several times through the evening (no surprise to some of you) I really couldn't help but be thankful! This time has led my work to such a new place! A place I would of never imagined and can only dream of where it will go...

As the time marches on, I will have a duet show with my mentor Ann Wydeven, as a RETURNING artist to REDLine, Milwaukee in January 2013 and have already been invited to teach a one day workshop or  3 session class in regards to the photographic processes I use for the community. My work will also be featured at Pyramax Bank of the Historic Third Ward starting August through the end of the year. And I will be in the members show at Walker's Point Center for the Arts from September 1 (which is when the REDLine show closes) through October 6th.

WOW!  Since I have been back in Milwaukee, I have pretty much been a resident artist with REDLine, Milwaukee. And now that this season is changing... I am excited to see what awaits with a grateful heart.

The Perfect Time of Year...

Greetings Fans!

This morning I had the opportunity to work with one of my favorite groups of people-- High School Seniors! Always fun, just about willing to try anything and filled with great ideas, the time always goes by quickly.

Today's young lady is no exception. She really wanted to be able to share the compliment of her soft flowing dresses with nature, while contrasting them with the rustic architectural environment as well. We elected to try two areas around town to meet this goal.Personally, I much prefer shooting "on location" as opposed to a studio space. I have the natural light around me and I really enjoy being outside too. As promised, here are a few images from today's High School Senior Shoot!

(c)2012 laci coppins

(c)2012 laci coppins

(c)2012 laci coppins

I used a quick edit tool that allows me to add fun enhancements to each image. They will later be formally edited for the client's selection, followed by print and delivery. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below and stay connected with the latest by following me on Twitter @FotoFans!

Buller?... Buller?

For shame... for shame... for shame... Hello Foto Fans! Remember me?

I can not believe that a year has gone by with no postings or updates. Perhaps this gives you a sense of the busy life I have been leading?

 I am still working away and have a new show that opens in 2 weeks! This will be my last resident show with REDLine, Milwaukee. Should you find yourself in town, please stop by… I am sharing several images and installations that are a true reflection of my current growth and pattern as an artist. I would love to have you join me and see what I have been up to!

In the meantime... @FotoFans on Twitter 

Join me?

Hello Fans!

I have a new show opening this Saturday. I am really excited about this work, which is a collection of both analogue and digital black and white photographs. The project, known as PERSPECTIVES, spans work from 2008-2011. I have coupled printed photographic images with recycled materials, manners and impressions often overlooked, forgotten, ignored, and discarded. In this recent installation, my intent is to push the observer by blocking the image and restricting portions of view.

Join me? Stay tuned for images from the night's event as well...

Until then, follow me on Twitter @FotoFans

Fans, please be patient with me...

First off Happy New Year! I have so much to say and so little time. So please accept this as a place holder until I can share with you a few images from the last SHOOT of the year and detailed information on the first SHOW of the year!

If you haven't, save the date, for January 21st 6-9:30pm opening at the Peltz Gallery. It continues on Saturday, January 22 from 12-5. I have three pieces featured and I will be present as well! It's going to be fabulous!

In the meantime, please continue to follow the fun on Twitter@FotoFans thanks to everyone whose already apart of the fan club!

The Best is Yet to Come!

Hello Foto Fans!

Well, we have made it through the Christmas season and what is awaiting us- 2011! In just a few days, we will be moving forward in a new decade. WOW, seems like just yesterday everyone was running around in prep for Y2K.

And so, what am I thinking for the new year, well there are a few things to be on the look out for...
A new website will launch this spring! I am really excited for the new look this site will hold. It will include a combination of both my fine art photographic works and my commercial work, similar to the current site, but DIFFERENT with new faces, new work and much more fresh! I can't wait for you to see it Fans!!

Speaking of commercial work, I have also made some decisions with regards to the commercial branch of my offerings. After a long contemplation, I will simply offer: Graduates, Head-shots, Family and Maternity portraiture. This is what I really enjoy capturing; which I think is most important, don't you?

And finally, I am growing roots. Believe it or not, I am blooming where I am planted. Seems like Wisconsin will be home (again). When it is all said and done, I am not sure how long, but I do know, the best is yet to come! Until 2011 and beyond Fans, Stay posted on Twitter@FotoFans!

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all! May God Bless us everyone!

Just a Little Fun!

Hello Foto Fans and Merry Christmas!

So with basically five shopping days left, are you ready for the big day!? Like so many of you I am almost ready, the tree's been up since the day after Thanksgiving and the stockings hung with care.

But of course, creativity does not stop for the 12 Days of Christmas. That being said, take a peek at these fun antics that found their way into artist, Justin Cooper's photo shoot for head shots taken late last week.
 

I'm off to wrap the last of the gifts and I am about ready for some Hot Chocolate! See you on Twitter @Foto Fans and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

My Favorite...

Hello Foto Fans,
If you take the time to speak with any photographer (artist) each will tell you they have a favorite shot (image) that they love. Be it from a recent photo session or a pattern they start with and build from or favorite image by a colleague past or present...

Photo by Laci Coppins

For me, its my love of the black and white image! Often described as classic, traditional or timeless it is all of these things and might I add... PURE. And yes, while I have my digital cameras which can do a whole lot of fancy things, I still find myself, going back to my analogue friend. Unwrapping a new roll of film, placing into my camera with the internal knowing of careful image selection, because your options are limited to 36 exposures; make them count!

I recently mailed my holiday post cards to past collectors, galleries and patrons. I ensured the image used had no detailing, so it can remain long after the holidays should they choose...  Believe it or not, I used two different images, because I couldn't quite decide. Nevertheless, one is color and one black and white, my favorite... what do you think!? Would you like to receive a post card for your wall? Follow me on Twitter@FotoFans and we can go from there.

All About the Process...

Greetings Foto Fans!

When I was living in Italy I had a mentor who would often remind me, "It's all about the process, not just the product." It took a little bit for it to sink in, which may explain why he felt the need to remind me multiple times (chuckle), but I continue to apply this lesson back on American soil.

This summer I had a "Happyy Accident," as one of my current mentors calls it, with a can of spray paint, and came across a new idea for a self-portrait. Well, I often make smaller "samples" or "proofs" of my work so I can play with textures, put pieces together, help me simply better understand if I "like" how each image complements one another or is it strong enough to stand alone. Within this process, I am also adding text by my own hand.

Well it was suggested I try screen printing the text, sure I thought... but did I mention I am not, repeat NOT a print maker! lol But after I was dusted with a little Warhol dust by the Print Maker Fairy, I attempted the process. Coat the screen... wait, Burn the screen... wait, Rinse the screen... wait,  Coat the screen... wait, and here folks think it takes a long time to print a picture in the dark room. PLEASE, give me my chemistry set and red light any day! But funny, once I put my sample piece together, guess what... I did NOT like it!

It was something about the printed text, not being in my specific hand, but recreated, that disappointed me.  But I thought wait, post it in my studio, give it a moment, it may grow on you, but alas, nope! And so now Fans, I begin this graffiti style, self-portrait again, because, in the end... It's about the process! And once the process is correct, the product will be phenomenal (if I say so myself). I haven't totally given up on screenprinting and continue to spend time in the printmaking studio, but just not for this project. I know you are wondering about a few pictures, well, you'll have to come to the exhibition, "Pulp Possibilities" at REDLine Milwaukee in March. Hopefully this piece will make the cut and give you a chance to see what this process is really all about. Until then, you can always follow me on Twitter@FotoFans

Growing a Tree...

Greetings Foto Fans!

This morning I was able to have another volunteer for my "hair series," which I have decided to stop calling it this, since it really isn't about the hair (which I realize with these samples probably doesn't help my argument), but more or less capturing the internal perspective of the model, as reflected by the external perceptions of the viewer. So, from here forward it will be referred to as my Perspective Series. (Please make a note!) Since we got that out the way... Let me tell you about today's shoot!

I met this young man at the Milwaukee Art Museum! While making my way through the space, I spotted him, with locs flowing literally to his hind parts. I said to myself, "I have to have him for my series!" Mind you, I just was talking with my mentor earlier in the week about a person with super long locs, that I can create my own "tree" with! Being a fellow artist, he happily agreed to help me out. YES!

As always, I include a few images from the shoot, but to see the final selections, including my "trees...," you must come to my solo exhibition at the Jazz Gallery, opening in February, called.... That's Right ...Perspective. In the mean time... You can always follow me on Twitter @FotoFans