SAN DIEGO – 50 local artists from Greater San Diego will bring their unique creations to the premiere exhibit ’50 To Watch’ in local galleries from April 5 through May 15.
50 To Watch, produced by The Studio Door, is an ambitious project to bring together diverse visual artists through exhibition and draw national attention to San Diego’s contemporary art scene. Painters, photographers, installation artists and muralists will be showcased through two local exhibitions, an online gallery and a national publication.
“Amazing things take place when you open up a space to the creativity and experiences of 50 disparate artists dedicated to their art. The first thing you’ll notice is the diversity of their visions but even more exciting is what you hear. In our recent exhibitions, I heard the sounds of community being built. Artists and art lovers discussing experiences, connections, opportunities and the meaning of art. This dialogue is at the heart of The Studio Door’s existence,” said owner Patric Stillman.
Relatively new to San Diego’s arts and culture, The Studio Door is an arts incubator dedicated to the creative marketplace and promote contemporary artists. The core of activities will assist artists with the business side of selling art as well as creating opportunities to bring greater attention to San Diego’s visual artists. Located along the 30th Corridor in North Park, The Studio Door showcases a new art gallery and working artists studios with GOLDEN art supplies, gift store and Art-to-Market programming launching throughout 2015.
Acting as an introduction to San Diego’s professional and emerging artists, 50 To Watch includes a professionally produced publication featuring the work of the participating artists. The 116 page book is being distributed to 2,000 national galleries and museums over the course of the year.
“San Diego has an abundance of talented artists. With 50, we only scratch the surface but its a solid beginning,” said Stillman. The Studio Door plans to bring back 50 To Watch in 2016 and then schedule it as a biennial program going forward.
Stillman noted that the exhibition received the invaluable input and assistance from Anita Edman (City of Solana Beach), Patricia Fischer (San Diego Visual Arts Network), Stephen C. Wagner (Arc Gallery and Studios San Francisco), Susan Halderman (ArtBizSuccess and Lady BIM) and Patti Brady (Golden Artist Colors).
A preview reception honoring the artists is set for 6 PM on April 3rd at The Studio Door and the opening reception is scheduled for 6 PM on April 9th at The City of Solana Beach: City Hall Gallery. The exhibition will run from April 5 – May 15, 2015. Artwork will be available for sale. For more information, visit www.50toWatch.com or call (619) 255 – 4920.
Three artists have been juried as Best in Show including Michael McAlister (Assemblage Artist – San Diego), Ryan Schwarzkopf (Installation Artist – Escondido) and Heather Torres (Photographer – Vista).
Thank you for reporting on 50 TO WATCH and THE STUDIO DOOR. The Studio Door is a member of GSDBA. We are thrilled to be showcasing the creative works of diverse artists.