There is nothing more thrilling for me as an artist to see such a wonderful community response to my inaugural The G33K Art Show, which just finished running at The Kaufman Arts Studio in Kitchener this past weekend.

A few months ago, I came up with the idea of creating an art show that showcased artists who worked in comic, sci-fi, fantasy, animation and other alternative genres. As someone who works  as a professional performer and artist, I saw that these particular artists were often stuck inside a certain niche audience, and were unable to expand their audience. Moreover, these artists struggled for funding from government (grants) to further their work. So what I decided to do, is to let them showcase their work in an more artistic setting.

I cannot deny that the day before the show, I was ready to vomit from nervousness. After some TV, newspapers and so on, I was so terrified that no one would show. What would I explain to my artists? I promised them exposure, and sales… As someone who once ran a grassroots theatre company in Toronto, I know the competition for audience members, and the damage from small numbers.

There was no better time to prove me wrong. The community responded in a huge way, not only by attending, but by their tremendous support that they showed the artists and the positive feedback that I have received for the show. I was completely blown away by the huge crowds that moved through the small black box studio over the weekend. I had artists come up to hug me because of how well they were doing, which touched me in such a meaningful way. For some, this was their first art show, and nothing makes me happier than to see them successful.

Hilariously enough, my table was absolute bare bones. With the difficulty running an entire art show on my own, I completely forgot about making product for my own table. Most of the work featured on my table were up to 6 years old…it was rather sad. But I did not care. I have no regrets for the “sacrifice” I made. In fact, I don’t think I made any sacrifices at all. The show was not about me. It was about the group of amazing talent that I found in the region of Kitchener-Waterloo, and even beyond.

On that note, The G33K Art Show 2011 comes to an end. THANK YOU to everyone who made this show possible. This is what makes all my work worth it. This is what makes me proud to be an artist. This is what makes me proud to be an artist of Kitchener-Waterloo. From the bottom of my heart. Thank you.

LIST OF ARTISTS

MUSICIANS

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