emanuel aguilar

In the Spirit of Happy!

2009-11-24T23:59:00.002-06:00

End to finish off a super crazy November, here comes Thanksgiving. From 18 hour work days, to Palm Beach, to Forever Atlanta Lanta, to a fantastic week in NYC this has been the most productive unproductive month in a while. Ive done so much and yet feel a bit confused as to what it all was for. Any who, enjoy the Muppets in a rendition of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody to uplift the happy.

Emanuel Aguilar

JETTISON 3!

2009-09-05T15:53:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone,

JETTISON is releasing its 3rd issue on September 11th!! To celebrate we're hosting a release party at Simone's in Pilsen on Thursday September 10th. Please join us in celebrating a kick ass issue. Featured this time around we have interviews with KARI LYDERSEN, a reporter for the Washington Post; Chicago-based artist KARL WIRSUM and his son ZACK WIRSUM; TORTOISE; J+J+J; THAX DOUGLAS, and so much more. Fashion followers should rejoice especially, as our Fashion Section for fall is huge and absolutely gorgeous. We shot designer KELLY WINTER's spread in the upper levels of the Hancock Building! Keep your eyes on that shoot, it features the season 11 winner of America's Next Top Model, MCKEY SULLIVAN, as one of our models.

With special guest photgraphy from
Sarah Pooley
Riley Henderson
and more peeps.

and comics by

Kyle Harter!

Thank you everyone for all your continued support, we can't do it without you. If you are yet a subscriber to JETTISON visit our site at

JettisonQuarterly.com,

subscription is free and we are all online!

So join us for our release party;

September 10th
Simone's
960 W. 18th
8pm-2am

and don't forget to check out the new issue September 11th!
Till then our previous issues are online always expecting your visit.

Emanuel Aguilar
JettisonQuarterly.com

Art Showing ings o' the Bridge of Port of the Pe-a-tro

2009-07-23T15:56:00.002-05:00

My buddy Pete is part of a show this Friday at Co Prosperity. Check it out.
Sees you there!

Emanuel Aguilar
JettisonQuarterly.com

Jettison Second Issue Release!!!!!

2009-06-10T13:52:00.003-05:00



 Jettison Quarterly is releasing its second issue this
Saturday,13th of June!!!!!!! To celebrate we're hosting
a release party at the Halfway House in Wicker Park
Saturday at 8PM. Halfway is located at 1742 N. Milwaukee.
Join, if you can, in celebrating an amazing second issue!

If you cant make it, please check out the magazine at
       http://JettisonQuarterly.com
  Subscription is FREE! Spread the word!

Hope everyone is well and hope to see you Saturday!

It's good to be back in Chicago and back on the blog!!!

THE DAY IS HERE!

2009-03-03T21:20:00.004-06:00

COME CELEBRATE WITH US THE FIRST ISSUE REALEASE OF JETTISON QUARTERLY THIS THURSDAY AT SUB-T.!!!!!

We finished our first issue! Come and celebrate with us on Thursday.

Emanuel Aguilar

Tracking back...Interview

2009-02-22T21:22:00.002-06:00

A good bit ago I gave an interview to Elizabeth Burk-Dain in correspondence to the Respiratory Health Association Smoking Ban sculpture Phoenix. I wanted to link everyone to that interview on Elizabeths blog. It's a bit late but I had a great conversation with her on lot subjects beyond that of the sculpture and into many aspects of conetmporary art practice. Please visit the link and check it out.

Interview With Elizabeth Burk-Dain

Emanuel Aguilar

I had the opportunity to meet a wonderful person..

2009-02-22T21:12:00.002-06:00

Her name is Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons. She is a Cuban artist and has a show up at the Glass Curtain Gallery entitled Life Has Not Even Begun. Magdalena's work explores the fluidity of identity, a subject, which many of you know, I am very involved with. I was approached by Neysa Paige Leiberman to interview the artist. I discovered a very necessary inspirational person in Magdalena in that short interview. I was starting my last semester of undergrad and was questioning alt of my interest with both ,my ractice and decision making. Magdalena's work and person in overall was a breath of fresh air which I needed so much at that moment. I want to thank Neysa, Amy Mooney, and Joan Giroux fo rthe opportunity to meet and interview Magadalena. I would however like to thank Magdalena herself for not only givnig me the pleassure of talking to her but giving me a boost in energy and determination. The link below is the article I wrote in correspondence to the interview. Please check it out.

Interview With Maria Magdalena Campos-Ponce
Emanuel Aguilar

Something Happy This Way Comes

2009-01-23T22:35:00.002-06:00

Been gone for a minute now im back again.....or so the song says...

2009-01-23T22:30:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone I have been gone for a long time. Updates on all things current and future to come. Its been a great month and t is the year of the Ox so tehrefore me being an Ox Im ready to rock! Hope all are well.

Emanuel Aguilar

2009-01-14T23:25:00.000-06:00

In the spirit of Free...

2008-12-23T18:29:00.002-06:00

Its been a nice exhausting year so I would like to share this puppy with everyone, He really knows how to just relax and chill out. Look at his ears, not a worry in the world.

Ashes to Ashes Dust to Dust

2008-12-23T18:22:00.003-06:00

Here is a sneak peek preview of Mr. Vinny and Mr. Ericdaniel and my sculpture going in the Thompson center lobby within the next few weeks. It was constructed using collected ashtrays from bars after the smoking ban went into play a year ago. It's a celebration of the one year anniversary commissioned by the Respitory Health Association of Chicago.

Emanuel Aguilar

2008-12-21T22:53:00.000-06:00

Reuse Reduce Re..ya know Re iPod?

2008-12-21T22:34:00.003-06:00

A+D Gallery - Columbia College Chicago
Criteria
Curated by Jimena Acosta and Emiliano Godoy
January 15 - February 28, 2009

Criteria explores the ethics and politics that embody contemporary notions of sustainability. Using art as a lens through which our unsustainable systems of production and consumption can be evaluated from an ethical perspective, the work in this exhibition pierces skepticism and challenges our preconceived notions on environmental and social trends.  Exhibiting artists include, Siri Brekke (Norway), Edward Burtynsky (Canada), Máximo González (Mexico), Aylin Kayser and Cristian Metzner (Germany), Jason Middlebrook (USA), Paolo Pennuit (Italy), Diego Pérez (Mexico), among others.

Jennifer Murray
Director
Averill and Bernard Leviton A+D Gallery
Columbia College Chicago
619 S. Wabash Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
312.369.8686

www.colum.edu/adgallery

Check It Out : theodore boggs

2008-12-18T23:21:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone, hope all is well in the time o' snow. Check out my friend Theodore's work. heres his website. Show the support. He's been busy and it's good to see some good productivity going on.

Theodore Boggs

Emanuel Aguilar

TONIGHT TONIGHT 12!!!!

2008-12-13T16:05:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone, happy post finals! Hopefully everyone can check out this show 12 at the Happy Collaborationist exhibition space in Wicker Park tonight. Short notice I know, my apologiezes. I don't know how to spell apologies. Wait I just did! Ok so the sh ow is a great grouping of 12 artist in Sabina Ott's critique class at Columbia. I helped organize this exhibition as a good final chapter to the class. Hopefully everyone can make it.

12
Happy Collaborationist Exhibition Space
1254 N. Noble
7-11

Emanuel Aguilar

Sharing a Message Against H8

2008-12-12T14:26:00.004-06:00

Dear Friends, my good friend Kyle Francis Harter is involved in a film entitled Fish Out of Water. It is a film exploring the issue of church and homosexuality. He has asked me to share the following message with my friends. I have attached clips of the film as well. Thank you for your attention. Hope everyone is well.

Dear LGBTQI friends and allies,

We need your help to separate Church and H8!

With the defeat of Proposition 8 in California and other anti-marriage bans enacted in 30 other states, it is up to fair-minded individuals to stop the Religious Right's crusade of hate. We ask you to join us in fighting the cultural war waged on our families, communities, and hearts.

Our message is simple: Stop H8, Donate $8!

We need 8,000 people to donate $8 to our "Stop H8, Donate 8!" campaign before the National Defense of Marriage Act protest rallies on January 10th.

After donating, please pass this message along to of your friends, coworkers, family and acquaintances. A movement starts with a single step!

You can donate $8 to stop H8 by visiting this link: www.fishoutofwaterfilm.com

All money raised will go to the swift completion and release of our feature film, Fish out of Water, a documentary that tackles the seven Bible verses used to condemn homosexuality and justify marriage discrimination. By using animation to make these dusty and vague verses accessible, Fish out of Water is a necessary ally in helping the LGBTQI community wage their battle for marriage equality.

We plan to bring the film to school yards, doorsteps and street corners everywhere from Appalachia and the Bible belt to the Wild West and Midwest on our 2009 Pink Van Tour. During this nationwide campaign we will screen the film, and distribute accompanying educational materials.

Please join the fight for marriage equality and Stop H8, Donate $8 by visiting: www.fishoutofwaterfilm.com and clicking on the "donate" link.

We also ask you to join us on Saturday, January 10th for the next National Defense of Marriage Act protest rally in your local city. To keep informed on all the latest developments, join our blog: http://fishoutofwaterblog.blogspot.com/.

Thank you for your tireless support, courageous minds and eager hearts. In this crucial time in history in the fight for equal rights, it's not a matter of ability, but action. YES WE WILL change the course of history. YES WE WILL accomplish it together.

With love and gratitude,

Yellow Wing Productions Team

Ky Dickens

Kristen Kaza

Fawzia Mirza

Ryan Endress

Katy Haggis

Mo Rodriguez

C.J. Arellano

Kyle Harter

Alan Saunders

*For more information, visit www.fishoutofwaterfilm.com, or write to info@fishoutofwaterfilm.com

Everyone...

2008-12-04T16:11:00.003-06:00

......Should come and participate in this great event. Bear necessities is an event in which we will get the chance to make some art with kids with cancer. The work will be then sold in order to raise funds for research, treatment and simply aid in the fight against cancer. We will be at Columbia College Chicago, 623 S. Wabash, 10am - 3pm on the 10th floor. Whom ever has some free time should come and participate and help do something good with your weekend. I know its Saturday but you have many more Saturdays to waste on partying, do something productive for once and join me to make some great art and raise some money for some great kids.

Emanuel Aguilar

Eskell is Having a Pre Holy Day Holy Day Sale Event

2008-11-21T23:40:00.003-06:00

Go check out some stuff , drink mimosas and maybe even buy some of the stuff you check out. Ill be there towards later in the day but the SALE goes on all day.

Eskell
1509 N. Milwaukee Avenue

Emanuel Aguilar

Spotted The Sean

2008-11-21T16:15:00.003-06:00

So Sean is not only in the city but came in to the A & D Gallery today. Heres a picture to prove his presence in the Chicago. Find him buy him a drink and get him to do a little dance.

Pics of the Open Sudio BFA Colum.edu

2008-11-21T15:14:00.009-06:00

Heres some pics from the Open Studio Last night.

D Hirst Does a Video

2008-11-21T12:33:00.004-06:00

Damien Hirst has art directed a music video for The Hours . Sienna Miller is in it acting all crazy in a Hirst like environment. I kinda like it . But maybe its just cuz it presents itself as yet another outlet in which now fine art can exist . I m sure it has before with like David LaChappelle and what not but I'm just saying MBA here I come. Anyways heres the video.

Thanks

2008-11-21T01:33:00.002-06:00

For everyone that came to the BFA Open Studios. I'm very glad to have been able to be part of the event and glad many of you came out to participate. Pictures will be posted soon, probably to9morrow, I need sleep.

Emanuel Aguilar

dear inspiration.....

2008-11-21T01:27:00.002-06:00

I hope to be this motivated and driven about my career and work . This is my dream excitement and the only level of determination I will stand by. Dear inspiration don't let me down, I wear you on my shirts.

Coming soon to a ....

2008-11-20T01:13:00.003-06:00

..Thompson center near you, I think, a colab public sculpture by Mr Vincent Finazzo, Eric Siegel, and myself. More once its up. Its gonna be uhm GREAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT!

Emanuel Aguilar

I would.....

2008-11-20T01:08:00.001-06:00

....tell you about me and the BFA's open studio tonight at the 10th floor in 623 S. Wabash between 5 -7...but I'm afraid you might show and overpopulate our lovely department......

The Bucket Reminds

2008-11-20T01:05:00.003-06:00

Thanks to Mr. Andy Bucket Holder for reminding me today of my bible of art books , Julie Ault's Felix Gonzalez Torres monograph. this book seriously is the most beautiful book ever with some of the best collection of essays ever. It really has influence me a lot. Of coarse it being about the FGT helps it on my list but it really is an amazing book.

Read it!! Now!!

Emanuel Aguilar

Deal of Le Cliff o' Still

2008-11-20T00:50:00.003-06:00

So I'm mentioning this for two reasons: one well ok more than one reason whatever here are my reasons this woman owned some really uhm interesting ? painting of what looks like cars or something Sunday ish , and she brought it to my favorite secret pass time , Antiques Roadshow, and it turned out to be a early painting by Clifford Still. I think her facial reaction is my favorite part here, I'd probably be making the same face if all of a sudden I got the estimate she got . Heck I'd probably make that face just for simply being on that amazing show.So the nice little lady ended up finding out her Still to be worth at 500,000$$$. Anyways here's the NY post about it and I'm going thrift store shopping.

NY Post

Emanuel Aguilar

Pics From Pete and the Lumpen or the Other name I can never Rememeber

2008-11-20T00:34:00.009-06:00

Here are some of the pics from the InfoPorn show last Friday. It was an interesting show. My favorite thing about it was the installation , very symmetrical very clean in comparison to the show they had installed last time i was there....oh oh and of course Pedro's stuff which I though stole the show due to the fact that everything else fell under a very stark uniform. and cuz Pedro's stuff was kick ass! I included a picture on a very nice piece of his in which he asked to asses his painting skills, I gave a thumbs up.

Emanuel Aguilar

Pop On Prop 8 and Kyle stuff.

2008-11-17T00:25:00.009-06:00

So with all this going on regarding the passing o f Prop 8 and the whole gay marriage issue I wanted to share some of Kyle Harter's work that has touched on the subject.Kyle has been working with a documentary called, "Fish Out Of Water" which surrounds a critique and exploration of homosexuality and the Church. Two of the videos are small clips from the film which is still in production and the other one is a film made by Kyle in response to some of his own research
(Orangutans can do that?). Anyways I think hes done a great job at approaching this issue and once again lets all reevaluate how important it really is to allow equality across all boards. I mean like Kyle puts it in his film "Its not just about making babies".

I accidentally added two of the same video and I cant figure out how to change it so I shall leave it. enjoy it twice. Update I firgured out how to remove the extra video I posted twice so now enjoy it once or forever or twice or whatever.

Emanuel Aguilar

YO YO YOYO

2008-11-13T22:29:00.002-06:00

Check this show out tomorrow (Friday) night at Lumpen featuring my amigo Pete.

Happy Collaborationist Exhibition Space Presents : The Box Show

2008-11-13T01:28:00.002-06:00

Hello , The Happy Collaborationist is hosting yet another great show on the 22nd of this month. This time around our happy girls in blue hair present the Box Show. Ms Anna Trier in a recent discussion stated she is very excited with this show and to expect wonderful work and an exciting night. Below is the curatorial statement for the show and also all the info. Hope to see everyone there.

Curatorial Statement:

The cube is a Platonic solid, also called the regular hexahedron. The term is derived from Plato's notion of a regular solid out of four classical elements: earth, air, water and fire. The metaphorical conception of an infinite line connecting nature is extremely beautiful; it is the celebratory painting of the beginning of human logic.

A box functions as a tabla rasa by taking the form as a symbolic and physical container to absorb and/or mimic the containing object. Its utopic and minimal simplicity is also open to intricate physical and emotional complexity and can create infinite amount of elaborate patterns and structures. It is the ultimate
metaphor and it is ubiquitous. However, its existence is so modest and tranquil that we often do not recognize living within a box. It is a child of mother nature and something that we continue to struggle with; we are constantly trying to be "outside the box." Before this perilous revolution, we must understand and appreciate its symbiotic nature with humans.

Dain Oh

	Saturday, November 22, 2008
	7:00pm - 11:00pm
	The Happy Collaborationists Gallery Space
	1254 N. Noble
	Chicago, IL

Emanuel Aguilar

Congratulations to Mr. Tannar

2008-11-07T11:01:00.003-06:00

Congrats to Tannar for taking the win at the Honors show this year. Oh and Mr Joshua also congrats. There was other people who got awards but as far I recall I have no idea who they are , congrats to them also. Here's Tanar's piece o' happy. I hope I spelled his name right so I wrote it Tannar and Tanar just in case. I suck at spelling. Anyways I have more pictures of other peeps in the show which Ill post in a bit. If your down at Columbia campus go check out the show theres some nice stuff in it.

Emanuel Aguilar

Eman is Truly A Happy American Child!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-04T22:17:00.003-06:00

Barack Obama is our new president!
America the New!!!!!!!

Emanuel Aguilar

Studio timing it.

2008-11-03T17:05:00.001-06:00

Since I been spending so much time in my studio recently reading, sleeping, washing my face with some stuff I got at CVS I thought I'd share my view from my window.

Emanuel Aguilar

October 31st 2008

2008-11-03T16:57:00.006-06:00

Friday the 3st was a long day. I only managed to document a small part of the day though it was filled with so much activity and I wore the most exhausting shoes. Anyways here's some pics of some of the peeps and the Jenny Holzer opening.

Eman is Baracking It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-02T12:24:00.006-06:00

All Im saying is go make some sort of choice. But I'm letting you in on my choice, there's bigger problems in the world then the pity things we allow our media and our sorrounding influences inflict us with. Lets look for a better approach to being to living to simply thinking. Eman proudly voices his pick of Barack Obama as the next Pres of the USA.

Emanuel Aguilar

New Work : Untitled ( House )

2008-10-26T22:32:00.004-05:00

This is something Im working on. Its basically finished except for me figuring out the installation hardware and brackets or whatever. Bad pictures but shows you some process I think. The pictures aren't focused because every time i snap a photo the reflection focuses and not the white house and or bricks but you guys get the point.

Emanuel Aguilar

Eman Helps Friend....

2008-10-26T21:34:00.005-05:00

Since were on the topic of fashion.
Help Lindsey and get some stuff. My friend Lindsey is trying to make some extra bucks and has put up some of her high end stuff at very nice prices up for grabs. Please help my Lindsey out if you see anything you like. Thanks.

Walton O Stuff

Emanuel Aguilar

Eskell Goes Gossip

2008-10-26T21:26:00.002-05:00

A dress designed by my friends down at Eskell was featured in a recent episode of Gossip Girl on the CW. I wanna congratulate my friend Liz who owns Eskell on this. Big props. You guys can check out there website and or their store in Wicker Park. Heres a picture of the dress in the episode.

Eskell
1509 N. Milwaukee Avenue

PHAIZ Chicago

2008-10-26T17:53:00.004-05:00

Ok so I finally went inside that place Phaiz down the street from my work at Woman Made gallery. I always walk by it and never actually went in thought it was always an alluring installation inside. The show they have up right now is interesting and Industry of the Ordinary is in it. The installation is really clean and great I really enjoyed the space.

One thing bothered me a little however. I'll take fault for taping my coffee on one of the display tables, I wasn't paying attention to what I was doing. But one of the women whispered to another younger girl to tell me to please not touch the exhibitions. Fine I was at fault. However what I found rude , apart from the whisper in front of me, was that the older woman went and checked the sign in and book area I had just been at (I'm assuming to see what I messed up if anything) right after she whispered and that after I was told to please not touch the Exhibition the girl stared at me the rest of the time I was in there. Now I have been on the gallerist side of art long enough to know that it is rude to right on stare at someone who is looking at work. I hate being stared at specially within five feet of distance. I left there shortly I wanted some pins and one of Adam's prints but I felt weird afterwards. I just wanted to say... but ill get over it.

Regardless I encourage everyone to check the show and space out. Its actually very intriguing and well executed. I was going to go the opening since I knew Industry of the ordinary was involved and dear friend and coworker Meegan Ross is friends with one of the other artist( not sure which one). Heres the address link and card for the show. Laters.

I think the photo for the card is brilliant, it's really a hilarious photo.

673 North Milwaukee Ave Hours:
Chicago, IL 60622 Wednesday-Friday 3-8pm
312.226.9070 Saturday 1-8pm
PhaizPhaiz@gmail.com Sunday 1-5pm

New Work: Untitled Exchange

2008-10-22T20:55:00.003-05:00

Andrew Is mean to Dogs and other Fun of the Apartment Show

2008-10-22T20:48:00.010-05:00

Andrew and Joshua lived up to their smile comment regarding their Apartment show at the Happy Colaborationist Exhibition Space this past Saturday. Heres some photos of the evenings events.

Emanuel Aguilar

Photos From Weekends Past

2008-10-22T20:43:00.008-05:00

Here are some photos of Kyle Harter's Show this past Saturday at Knee Deep in Pilsen. I didn't get many photos here but hopefully Kyle isn't mad. They had nice yellow colored walls and some nice paper airplanes.

Emanuel Aguilar

Tomorrow Happenings and Chin Dings.

2008-10-17T12:49:00.001-05:00

Saturday the 18th check out some of me good friends and fellow artist Kyle Francis Harter's show at Knee Deep Vintage Store in Pilsen . Also his show at Dove Tail on Chicago ave is still up and is encouraged for a visit.

Also Mr Andrew Burkholder and Joshua Clarfelt are having a show at The Happy Collaborationist Exhibition Space in Wicker Park. I will be at both these events. when Burkholder was asked for a comment on what to expect he gave a smile and a wink so expect some entertainment, I hope Bucket Holder!

HERE ARE THE ADDRESSES AND TIMES:

Kyle Francis Harter

Knee Deep Vintage

1425 W. 18th

Andre Burkholder & Joshua Clarfelt

The Happy Collaborationist Exhibition Space

1254 N. Noble

7pm - 11pm

What What on Tonight and On.

2008-10-17T12:36:00.004-05:00

Friday Octorber 17\. Happenings...

Ok tonight there is quite a lot happening. I encourage everyone to check out some of if not all of these events.

First off Industry of the Ordinary is part of a show entitled Reflections at Rhona Hoffman this opens tonight. Jenny Holzer, Leon Golub, Nancy Spero and others are also included in this exhibition. I unfortunately missed Industry's.. last happening at the MCA but I will be in the west loop this evening so I shall check out the Rhona Hoff.

Reflections

Rhona Hoffman

118 N. Peoria

Right next door at Monique Meloche you got CArrie Schneider with some new work. I know probably nothing about this artist but her photos on the website intrigued me , I posted one above, simply because i have this thing about relationships in life and how dependent people are of other people. Note not saying this is good romantic r anything like that I think it's silly. And Monique is always host to some great shows, expl: Mr Rashid Johnson's show last month.

There is this place called FAVE ( I Think) I believe i pass it on my way to work to Woman MAde every time I work there on Milwaukee. It's very intriguing I cant find it online but I have been informed on some happening there tonight. I hear Industry of the Ordinary will be there at some point tonight and I will try to stop by. If anyone knows more info please let me know. Its on Milwaukee north of Grand.

And last but not least My brothers' band Stoop is having a show at the Kinetic Playground on Lawrence tonight at 10pm. I will end my night there hopefully I can make it on time. They were on q101 last Sunday so their very productive as of late and if anyone is in the area would be great too show some support. Ok well thanks see ya all lates.

Emanuel Aguilar

Digs, Gigs, and FIgs.

2008-10-16T17:52:00.003-05:00

So right now if you guys haven't done so check out the show at A=D Gallery at 619 S. Wabash. it's called Off the Beaten Road and it has some great work from local and national artist. the work is really great I mean no really it is. Juliana Cuevas and Meegan Ross curated and it tells a very universal story of being alone but being in a a comfort zone beyond that of the accompanied moments.

A +D Gallery
619 S. Wabash
11 - 5

Some mor eof the Cutest Thing I've Ever Seen

2008-10-12T18:05:00.005-05:00

Heres a nice picture of Tweety, and the link to the Bansky Petsore and Grill. Check out. Those Nuggets man I freaking heart those nuggets. I like Happy.

Bansky Pet Store and Grill

Emanuel Aguilar

The Cutest Thing I've seen in Forever : Bansky Pet Store

2008-10-11T13:14:00.002-05:00

Bansky has opened up a pet store. thats right. If your in the NYC check it out its in the west village but watch this video if your not or Google t some more. Its really the cutest thing I have ever seen. Im on my way to the Mc'D's right now to buy my own pet nugget!!!!

As the Week Runs and a run

2008-09-29T21:20:00.002-05:00

Ok I have no idea what taht title post is all about but im sticking with it cuz it makes more sense then a lot of things going on right now. So busy busy week, so much going on. I would like to give everyone a headsup on a very eventful Friday night coming up on the 3rd o' October. (Also I am attempting to not freak myself out from the fact that I have no idea what im doing in regards to my video project due in a day and a half.)

Ok So A bit of a bump on the road as I type this I must now step out and fiz something but lets leave everyone started with Francis, the Kyle Harter's show on Friday night. He is amazing as you all know the wittiest of whitty. Ok here sthe flyer more updates in a few.

THANK YOU

2008-09-26T21:18:00.009-05:00

Thank you to everyone that made it out to Toil And Yield on Thursday night. the event turned out great and I hope everyone that came enjoyed it. i would like to extend a big thank you to all the artist, film makers, caterers,bartenders, friends, and everyone who made the first Toil And Yield a night to remember. I am so happy with the turn out and the support and feedback I have received. Really much more to come and this is only the beginning. I believe the show will be up for a whole week and once I get more information regarding hours and such I will post. Lets keep working towards more sharing of art and ideas. Thank you!!!!!!!!!

Here are some photos from Toil And Yield.

Emanuel Agguilar

Toil And Yield

2008-09-18T16:11:00.005-05:00

Toil And Yield
A networking event for the creative fields in Chicago. Sponsored by A Quiet Storm Productions and Me , Mr. Eman. Come see new work from ten local artist, five local film makers and well be introducing a new art magazine Happy Collaborationist.
Event will take place on Thursday the 25th of September at 7PM @ 321 S. Jefferson. Between Jackson and Van Buren on Jefferson.

Come and see some art and films and just simply show some support for art in Chicago.

Emanuel Aguilar

Picturing 300 dollars richer

2008-09-14T17:46:00.008-05:00

Thank you for everyone that made it out to the 300 dollars richer show. It was a very great night. Looking forward to seeing everyone at next event coming up Toil & Yield, look for info on that soon. Heres some pictures from last nights event.

In celebration of Renegade....

2008-09-11T13:16:00.003-05:00

The Renegade art fair is this weekend in Wicker Park. A few good friends of mine and with the space and help of Happy Colaborations Magazine are putting together a small show of our work to coincide with the Renegade art festivities. Come out and see some art. Hope everyone is good out there.

1254 N. Noble
Off of Division.
7-9

Emanuel Aguilar

Quoting It

2008-08-14T12:26:00.002-05:00

I recently ran across a quote by Eva Hesse which gave support to some of my ideas and thoughts surrounding idiosyncrasies within uniform and how the use of repetitive imagery enforces an idea even more so, in particular when exploring mass identity within cultures. Heres the quote:

"If something is meaningful, maybe it's more meaningful said ten times. It's not just an aesthetic choice. If something is absurd, it's much more absurd if it's repeated.....I don't think I always do it, but repetition does enlarge or increase or exaggerate an idea or purpose in a statement."

Come to think of it I never really noticed the constant repetition in Eva Hesse work. I have always found her work alluring and seductive but now taking into consideration the repetition , which is almost present in most of her work, I realize how much more important influence she's had on me. Anyways thought for the day.

Emanuel Aguilar

I would like to anounce...

2008-08-14T01:55:00.002-05:00

......that big things are coming. The meeting held today is a stepping stone way into the future. Stay tuned.

Emanuel Aguilar

Amanda Ferris McKenzie Essay for Untitled Happy American Child

2008-08-12T00:56:00.003-05:00

Here is Amanda Ferris McKenzies essay. She is one person who knows me very well so I found it intriguing to see how she would speak of my work coming from such position. Along with Ms. Hodes these two ladies did a wonderful job at these essays and I am for ever honored!

Emanuel Aguilar gives an eclectic view of the American Dream with his most recent collection of work. An exploration of images and meaning in different styles, mediums and ideals. Repetition is a main focus in Aguilar's works, similar to Andy Warhol, with some images fading while other burst with force giving the audience an opportunity to explore the differences within each piece. Taking these images into account the viewer is able to compare and contrast them while interpreting the meanings and adding their own cultural references to the work. Reflective surfaces are critical to the understanding and examination of several works, where the viewer can become a part of the work and expand his/her about the American Dream and it's importance.

Cultural identity is the theme of Aguilar's work. His exploration of his Latin American roots mix with the urban Chicago setting where he was raised that brings his identity to a crossroads. What does being American truly mean to the older generations? Does the idea of the "American Dream" mentality still exist among younger generations? These are questions that are consistently raised by Aguilar's work and although he does not give the viewer any answers, he reinforces the concept. The United States has very few traditions of it's own and because of this we as a nation tend to piggy back on other cultures and their traditions. trying to connect with our ancestral cultures while at the same time applying them to modern life is creating a new cultural fusion that determines our American identity. Far from home our souls are searching for meaning in a land of commercial traditions and cultures, ridding on the backs of immigrants with thousands of years of traditions and self awareness.

Above is a picture of Ms. Amanda Ferris McKenzie.

Emanuel Aguilar

A. Alyssa Hodes Essay for Untitled Happy American Child

2008-08-12T00:51:00.006-05:00

I wanted to share with everyone the essays that were written for my show Untitled Happy American Child. They were great essays written by some very respected art historian friends of mine. Here is Alyssa Hode's essay in which I'm compared to Switzerland! Enjoy!

Emanuel Aguilar’s work occupies the space between the viewer’s expectations of familiarity and the artist’s actual relationship with his subject matter. Aguilar demonstrates a dubious relationship between artist and subject. He embraces the tropes of Mexican- American culture with an unfamiliar familiarity. He explores what it means to be an outsider within his own culture, at the same time showing ways that Latin American culture has woven itself into mainstream American society. Ultimately Aguilar places himself in the position of both outsider and insider, demonstrating how multiculturalism gives the individual’s cultural alliances a fluidity rather than ambiguity. This work connects with both Americans and Latin Americans. Sometimes the works bring together, divide or just raise questions, but it is undeniable that the work takes both sides into account. When asked for his opinion, Aguilar retains Switzerland-like neutrality, making the meaning of his work viewer derived rather than artist driven.

Above is a picture of Ms. Hodes looking all academic and all that . Emanuel Aguilar

Thanks Thanks and more Thanks

2008-08-12T00:22:00.007-05:00

I would like to thank everyone who came to my show two weeks ago at the Jared Hatch Studio. You guys made my first solo so special for me. It was a great turn out and I'm happy a lot of people enjoyed my work.

The show closed tonight and I took everything down to night.

I felt the work looked beautiful in Jared's space. The simplicity of the installation was something that I had always envisioned when creating my work. I find so much allure in minimizing the conversation, by making the viewers mind speak louder than whatever my work is presenting as thought material.

I've attached some photos from the show,. unfortunately I didn't have my camera at the opening so I missed out on pictures of the huge crowd that came to support me. I have more photos of the work coming up but for now I would like to share with everyone a few pictures I took prior to de installation's of the work.

Thanks again to everyone who came. You have no idea how much that meant to me, really.

Emanuel Aguilar.

Been A Long .......

2008-08-12T00:15:00.003-05:00

So it's been a while since I've updated and I know that for the most part I have been pretty distant in terms of social and communication aspects.

Life has been though the last two weeks, I been in the hospital due to a severe allergic incident, I've had bad news regarding some of my closest friends, and I've just been completly bombarded with my jobs and work and shows and everything going on. I cant keep up it seems. But I'm hanging in there.

Theres some new news and events going on and I''ll elaborate on those further via following posts.

Hope everyone is doing well.

I've added my favorite piece by my muse Felix Gonzalez Torrez called perfect lovers above. The piece speaks of a moment of sync, of perfection of being in a perfect rhythm with someone with something with life. But how so everything is temporary and eventually time changes everything and nothing is forever. I guess its beautiful also to me in its simplicity and direct application to the battery powered life in the clocks telling time in sync. Eventually one slows down or dies out, but for one moment they were the same.

Emanuel Aguilar

SOLVE Tribute Show

2008-07-30T22:07:00.004-05:00

I had recently posted regarding a tragic incident in Logan Square resulting in the far too premature death of a young artist named Brendan Scanlon who went by t he street art name SOLVE. This Friday the 1st of August there will be held a tribute show in response to Brendan's life, influence, and art at the OhNO!Doom Gallery in Logan Square. His closest friends whom some are very dear friends of mine are doing a great thing here in showing a honorable and reverse sense of community in contrast to the insipid incident that took this artist's life. Come support and get to know who SOLVE was and who his friends and family are. Ill be there and hope to see many of you there.Also 50% percent of the profits will be donated to a charity funding a art program in Scanlon's hometown.

OhNo!Doom
2955 W. Lyndale
Friday August 1st.
7pm-10pm

Emanuel Aguilar

Hello , Been So Long Keeping Strong

2008-07-30T19:11:00.005-05:00

I have been a little out of the scene for the alst few days. I been basically non stop working every day, it's been good but I'm looking forward to the break this weekend to get some things done and ready. So this is why I have been hard to reach, just really busy, but I wanted to tell everyone that came to my show how much it meant to me that you'll came out to support. The show was great ,so many people came I lost count and running up and down the stairs to open the door was good exercise, ha.

I know there was some mix ups with people who came to the Thomas Masters Gallery instead of the Jared Hatch studio, if anyone went in there then you probably noticed that wasn't my work , ha. However I think there is a closing reception in works for my show the 7th, in case theres anyone who missed it who wishes to come see it.

It's been a tough summer thus far. enjoying new jobs, trying to figure out how to move on from old ones. Recently I have been also helping an artist by the name of Margarette Wharton at her studio. She is a wonderful woman with some great work in her past(including a solo at the MCA). She gave me a ton of books the other day and if you all know me, books a re like currency to me. I love books. Well you guys should Google her and check her out, she does some crazy stuff and thats in a good way. I attached a photo of one of her pieces.

So dear friends if I been hard to reach my apologies, I been really busy, but like always we hope for better days ahead that make it all worth it.

Emanuel Aguilar

Show Card!!

2008-07-16T17:24:00.005-05:00

Here's the card I made for my upcoming show at the Jared Hatch Studio. The scanned reproduction doesn't do the card justice, for those of you that have gotten an actual card you know well that its like a little mirror in your pocket. the actual surface od the front of the card is as reflective as a mirror. Oh well I'm still pretty down with the way the card came out. Thanks to miss French fro helping me make it!!!!

Emanuel Aguilar

Eman Is Having A Solo Show!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-16T00:25:00.003-05:00

So my good friend Jared Hatch has offered me a solo show at his studio in Old Town. the show is called Untitled(Happy American Child) and will feature a good amount of recent and new work of mine. I'm really excited about this s how. The space is a great space and itll play well with the installation of some of my work. I'm exited because I get the chance to play with installation and such with placement. I am having two essay written for the show by Art Historians Amanda Ferris McKenzie and Alyssa Hodes. There very intelligent girls and I find their approach to my work to be intriguing because not only do they know me personally but also have very complicated and diverse opinions about the subject matter in my work.

Along with the essays I have been getting a lot of support and help from friends in getting the show together . I want to say thank you to Mr. Jared Hatch of course for the opportunity to show at his space, Laura French for her help with my invitational cards, Kyle Francis Harter for counseling me via internet on my stresses, and of course Amanda Ferris McKenzie and Alyssa Hodes for their contributions.

The Show will be on:
July 24th, Thursday
245 W. North
Suite 201
6.30 - 10

At The Jared Hatch Studio

The show will be available by appointment through the 7th August.
Appointments can be made at : Studio@JaredHatch.com

I'm really exited about this one. Emanuel Aguilar

Chicago Art Open Picks Eman!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-16T00:13:00.003-05:00

So I got an email a couple of weeks ago informing me that I'm in some show at the Merchandise Mart called the Chicago Art open in October. Maybe September, sucks I cant remember, I'll have to check on that and update on it a bit later. But its basically a show of over 200 Chicago based artist and its a charity event so anything sold 40% goes to charity. I'm very honored to be in this. I want to thank Adam Brooks for putting me up for this. I posted a picture of the piece they chose to be in the show. Its one of my works on paper. Hopefully once the show goes up at the Mart everyone can go by and check it out. A few of my friends are also in this show. Theodore Boggs and Erick Siegel, my homies. The name of the piece is Untitled , of coarse, (children and...). It's simply a mix media painting I did one day when I was reading articles of how children were being left in difficult situations when they were American citizens and their parents were immigrants and in danger of being deported. Must be though, sucks that kids have to go through stuff like that. Just like Elian in a way. Ok so enjoy the pic. Talk to everyone soon.

Emanuel Aguilar

Checking UP on Things

2008-07-16T00:11:00.001-05:00

I been crazy busy for the last couple weeks so I have not been posting much. I'm back now with a little more free time, well not really, but i want to let everyone know on a few tad bits of news.
Hope everyone is good.

Remembering Elian

2008-06-26T14:55:00.009-05:00

So Elian Gonzalez has been in the news recently again. Remember Elian Gonzalez , he was the little boy who was in a boating accident which he survived but his mother did not, and then there was that hole debate regarding keeping him in the country o sending him back to Cuba. Well he got back sent to Cuba and has been there since, now 14, hes making headlines in the USA again. First I have a fascination with Elian's story in the fact that it is a perfect example on how multicultural issues affect us as Americans greatly and more so than we take into consideration. I mean Elian Gonzalez story is as American as OJ Simpson's trial, Brangelina, or even dare I say Tabasco. These things influence our culture and we never really stop to think how something of a multicultural theme , influence, makes such a big impact on our American culture.

So now 14 Elian has joined the Cuban Youth of Communist League and has vowed to never let down the Castro boys. Well I really don't know what to say about that too much. I mean I'm sure Elian holds a pretty big opinion on the US, I mean just look at the picture above were hes having a screaming contest with the guy with the gun pointed at him. Also there is talk over how Obama's campaign could be influenced in Florida by Cubans regarding the fact that two advisers of Obama were involved in the whole s ending Elian back to Cuba deal. Thats not that plausible of a argument in my opinion. I mean almost everyone has been involved in some sort of rejection, and in our society we applaud those with power to reject not those who get rejected. I'm going on and on now so I say check out some of my favorite photos of Elian above and my work called Untitled (Remembering Elian) 2008. It's Cast Resin with powdered Graphite and Gold Dust. Inspired by the one and only Elian Gonzalez and his influence on our passive intake of multicultural material within our America. Also the second photo is eEian now 14 at the Communist Youth conference.

Emanuel Aguilar.

OPENING TONIGHT!!!!!!!A & D Gallery

2008-06-26T14:41:00.004-05:00

So tonight at 4 or 5 pm the opening at A & D Gallery for the show Busted Amp curated by Anchor Graphics will be opening. So i forgot to mention on my last post regarding the fact that at 6.30pm tonight there will be a discussion sorrounding the show led by Duncan McKenzie. So everyone coem down and support the Arts and A & D and he asweomnes that is me and of course the show.

A & D Gallery
619 S . Wabash
4pm-8pm

Emanuel Aguilar

A & D Gallery : "Busted Amp"

2008-06-25T00:13:00.004-05:00

For the last week or so I been sitting at the desk at A & D Gallery watching artist come and go , screen printing this crazy and amazing collage of images on the walls. It looks like some sort of controlled , uncontrolled, chaos o' art.It's all for A & D Gallery's new show ; "Busted Amp" . The show was curated by Anchor Graphics.I took pictures to show you guys a little bit of the process in action but since my bag full o' stuff of mine got stolen at Ohare few weeks back I just realized all my camera stuff was in there, sooooooooooooo I cant upload any photos. But it looks amazing. tomorrow we finish the installation of all the works and everyone should come check out the show at the opening on Thursday night, like in two days. it really is a great show and you get to see me , Yay! Ill be working my first opening at A & D so would be nice for some peeps to come show support. Like I said I'm really happy to be working for some non for profits recently who seem to be doing things for the love of the art a little more than my past experience in commercial gallery hell. I am very thankful for my past opportunities and experience but it is a whole different ballgame when you get to work amongst people with drive and true interest in the art and artist involved. Woman made Gallery has also been a great boost of support. Anyways, seriously check out the show, there will be something in NewCity regarding the show and there is an ad in Works on Paper magazine and PRINT.

A & D Gallery
619 S. Wabash
Opening reception for Busted Amp
Thursday , June, 26
4pm to 8pm

Emanuel Aguilar

Woman Made Gallery Show : Drawing on Experience

2008-06-25T00:05:00.009-05:00

As I shared recently I've begun working with the wonderful women at Women Made Gallery and this past weekend i assisted in put up their new show "Drawing on Experience".
The energy at this gallery is really great and I couldn't have worked with more wonderful people. The show has a lot great work all surrounding a drawing approach. I've attached a few of my favorite pieces in the show. The opening is this Friday and if anyone is around the area should check it out. Its really a great space and the show is really great. Really this gallery is huge and the people who work there really are motivated about what they are doing. I love how i could overhear conversations regarding in dept views on art and politics. This space is one to definitely check out. Show your support.

Reception: Friday, June 27 / 4-7 p.m.
685 N MILWAUKEE AVE
CHICAGO IL 60622
TEL: 312 738 040

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: Chris Kerr "The Kerr"

2008-06-18T00:25:00.010-05:00

So Check out Chris Kerr's show this weekend. To better describe the show I will allow my and his good friend and Art Historian Amanda Ferris McKenzie to elaborate and explain in more detail:

Four months ago Chris Kerr, 34, had an epiphany - this led to his most recent sculpture "Trouble at the Strip Club". His experience was similar to one Conway Twitty had at the age of 31. Both men had come to the realization that it was time to stop playing Rock and Roll music for the kids and time to get down to business with Country music for the grown ups. Although the mediums are different, the intent is the same.
However humorous and innocent his work may appear, there is an underlying sadness and vulnerability. His Southern Baptist upbringing can be seen throughout his work and effects his choice of medium, stylistic traits, and political commentary. In "Touch the hand of the man that made you a Robot", emotion and complexity is shown by combining traditional painting styles with more modern airbrushing techniques. Comparisons can be drawn between Kerr's body of work and the sideshow attractions at a carnival. As viewers, we want to look in amazement and chuckle with amusement, but the melancholy at the root of these displays cannot be ignored.
Neo-Country is Kerr's solo movement, a culmination of those conflicting ideas brought together by his own exploration of self. Using contradictory visuals, titles, and at times speech bubbles, Kerr forces the viewer to reflect on today's issues and way of life. Kerr's Neo-Country work is indeed a visual reflection of country music per se, deeply routed in his past, fighting for his present and future. Comparing this movement with Conway Twitty once more, Kerr's work resembles Twitty City, an amusement park created by Twitty for his fans, complete with rides and gift shops. After giving country music a real voice, Twitty also gave it a home. Neo-Country is Kerr's Twitty City, nestled in southern roots, living in the Midwest, thinking outside the ordinary.

Amanda Ferris McKenzie

Check out Kerr's website
Chris Kerr

Emanuel Aguilar

Eman Gets Hired!!!!Two new Jobs but sadly still at the third Emily Position

2008-06-17T23:48:00.008-05:00

So I should share that as off last week and this week I am working with the A & D Gallery in the South Loop and Woman Made Gallery in West Town. They both are some really great spaces showing some great artist. The next show at A & D is Busted Amp opening the 26th at 4pm. Everyone should come check it out. Also a great thing is that both spaces are non for profit which gives me a big change in environment . It's good to be getting some new experience. So if you stroll by these places come in and say hi, and support the spaces themselves by coming out to check out their shows. Thank you very much to Juliana Cuevas, Jennifer Murray, and Beate C. Minkovski for giving me the great opportunity to work with them.

Woman Made Gallery Site

A & D Gallery Site

Emanuel Aguilar

WTF: Graf artist Solve RIP.

2008-06-17T00:44:00.006-05:00

Really I have no idea what to say. This past weekend i attended an art show in Logan Square for my friend Vincent Finazzo. the gathering was great, just local artist having a good time enjoying art and the evening. I left the opening early for I had another engagement across town. Later that evening , from what I have understood, Brendan Scanlon also known by his graf name SOLVE got into a fight and was killed by being stabbed on Palmer. This is insane. Why is this necessary? I had only met him once before but many of my friends new him well. It's insulting our culture has nothing better to do than kill each other. This makes me so angry. We should all stop this. I've attached a photo of an impromptu memorial that went up for SOLVE. May his death not be taken in vain and may this even not repeat itself. Theres too much beauty in life for anything this insipid. My thoughts go to those close to Brendan. RIP Brendan Scanlon.

Emanuel Aguilar

Chat It Up : Interview With Artist Kristina Smith

2008-06-08T22:22:00.005-05:00

For this artist interview i caught up with an old friend of mine from high school Kristina Smith. Me and Kris did the whole high school art thing together and I've been a big fan of her work for a long time now. Her paintings are executed with such perfect technique and i must say I find it so alluring that her paintings depict beautiful scenes of abandonment and time. She paints these scenes of discarded furnishings in alleys, streets, and creates such aesthetically pleasing images of scenes we would typically walk right past in everyday life. I have a strong appeal to the fact that she speaks of the American Culture, in contrast to my work, and that there is a lot of bricks in her work as well. Kris Smiths works always reminds me how important beauty is in our society and often the things we last think are beautiful are the most poetic and beautiful things of all. below we discuss American culture, MILFS, DILFS, and the politics of aesthetics. Enjoy!

I've included some of her work above and a photo of her working in her studio. Also there is a great photo of her in which I believe she is wearing a Novem Studios hoodie. Novem Studios are great friends of mine as well.

Emanuel Aguilar: Hello Ms. Smith thank you for agreeing to an interview with me. For the record please state your name and title.

Kristina Smith: I am Kris Smith and I am an oil painter and draftsperson

EA: Nice. So Kris. What would you say dominates your practice.

KS: Images of thrown out and abandoned furniture.

EA: I been familiar with your work long enough to have seen a great deal of change in direction. You used to do a lot more portraiture and the sort, what interest shifted your direction

KS: It kind of happened on accident. i have always preferred working in detail and in realism, and when i found the proper subject, it just stuck.

EA: I must say your skill is quite impressive, it always has been.

KS: You're too kind

EA: In recent times theres been a long debate on the death of painting and such, but i can tell you based on last years Venice Biannale and what i been seeing around that painting is very much in. What would you say on the matter

KS: It can be debated whether or not painting is contemporary enough a medium for these times, but i feel it's one of those aspects of art that will never die. its come this far, and its still a popular major in schools. if it were a truly dying medium, i feel schools would not continue teaching traditionally. And paintings are still widely exhibited in popular galleries.

EA: yes well i think theres a lot more debate within school regarding the teaching of painting. In a sense many schools stray from it . I think in a sense the times began to see a lot more technologies and mediums so it influenced over art production a lot. Andy Warhol once sad to Francesco Clemente that painting wasn't dead it was the sense of a master piece that had died

KS: This is true, there are many mediums and directions in which art can go, but so much can be done with each of those mediums and one can paint in various styles and ways. i know some kids that paint in photo shop, but is that not painting? Even so, i may not even be a painter my entire career. i am open to all media.

EA: True what is painting if not just paint moved around and arrange upon a surface.

KS: Right.

EA: The reason I brought that up was because your work in a sense can read more contemporary than the painting is dead era, there is so much attention to technique which is something that has been overlooked so much in past times, but your work reads of contemporary subjects and approach. I mean the furniture and the architecture and street all speaks of a time and place and yet it could be timeless and it could speak of today. I enjoy that very much in your work, the idea of captured beauty in time.

KS: Thanks! I was hoping they would be viewed in such ways! the idea also speaks for America's throwaway society, and although it can be an aesthetic piece, the paintings also try to make a statement., however the statement is more subtle than the colors and aesthetics of it all. especially when all that detail is involved.

EA: I mean aesthetic in a way is the strongest statement of our Culture. Were such beauty obsessed.

KS: For sure

EA:We throw out the old because we want nothing but new and pretty. Since i mentioned Andy Warhol earlier, he once also said "pretty gets you pretty far"

KS: That's so true.you can definitely school me on some Warhol philosophy.

EA: Ha I wish I could , I think thats as much as I know of him. No you haven't, do please

KS: What u know is useful

EA: Thank you

KS: It's called "America the comfortable"

EA: Ha ha Its sad its so true.

KS: Of course a take on the phrase America the beautiful.And what with this furniture that was once loved and enjoyed being thrown out for something better and cozier. Among other meanings.

EA: Poor Furniture. I personally like things a little worn in and with some history

KS:: I can understand it can be hard to part with things, perhaps these owners are reluctant but feel that new furniture is necessary.

EA: In contrast to when i spent some time in Italy, men adore older women there the older the better. Its such a great aspect of Italian culture an appreciation for experience and good aging.

KS: Wow! Yeah, you hear some pretty creepy things about American men and their obsession with the younger of the opposite sex, but then you hear about this "milf" obsession where older women are viewed as sexy and more appreciated.

EA: Well I think MILF surrounds and older woman who resembles more of a younger one.

KS: Ahh true

EA: But the MILF term always reminds me of Milk I don't know why which doesn't translate well to me in terms of allure.

KS: But doesn't the age add to their appeal? but perhaps what your saying is in Italy the women show that age, whereas a MILF does'nt show their true age as much? Yeah true.

EA: Exactly. Ha. And we all know what the term DILF reminds me and thats not ok either.

KS: hahahah!

EA: So miss Smith what do have planned for the long term.

KS: Indeed, well, I can't wait to return to school. I want to expand my artistic horizons and learn to work successfully in other mediums. Even if its just to experiment, if it becomes the new direction of my art.Then I want to instruct art at an institution while being a working artist as well. I enjoy sharing the knowledge of my passions.

EA: Sounds great. Yeah I cant wait for grad school either. I'm ready to move forward as well. Experimentation is a great thing in art. Most great discoveries happen by accident . I think the most important thing is to always remain focused on what drives you be it your subject matter, your influence, or your medium of choice.That sounds great, you'd be a great teacher!

KS: Thank you! Yeah, art can be a very flexible path if you want it to be.

EA:Yeah I definitely agree. I think its important that Artist gain more of an influence in society and culture.

KS: Have you had a chance to check out more grad schools since our NY failed attempts?

Most definitely.

EA: Ha yes i was just in NY two weeks ago. I got some great info. we should discuss some time. Well miss Kris I think you have a lot to share with the world with your work. Any upcoming shows you'd like to let anyone know about.

KS: Awesome, look forward to the convo! ... but yes i am working hard t complete enough pieces for my first solo show opening on July 20th 2008. It's in Beverly shores Indiana from 1140am-330pm in the afternoon. In the train terminal area. s if one wants to go, the south shore train from downtown drops you off right there.

EA: Great . I'll be there and everyone should check out your work. Well Miss Smith thank you very much for a great interview. Any final words of wisdom, thoughts you'd like to share?

KS: The pleasure was all mine! Words of wisdom? Umm....Keep reading Eman's blog if you're looking for some great perspective on today's art community! I'm bad with on the spot wisdom....

EA: Ha Ha, Thank you very much. We should add a disclaimer that I didn't for this great PR. Greatly appreciated, I'm glad to bring great artist work to everyone out there.

KS: Oh but artist should always keep looking at what's out there. Keep up with the competition.

EA: Agreed. And Scene.

Emanuel Aguilar

New Work : Happy American Child.......

2008-05-31T23:55:00.005-05:00

Here are two of my works with American Cheese. Take it my last post, I felt it appropriate to share these works. I use American cheese for various reasons from its cultural symbolic power, it's iconic name and color, and it will never go bad thanks to tons of preservatives added. The first piece is "Untitled(Happy American Child)" and the second is "Untitled(Out of One,Many)" . I'll discussed these works more in depth soon. Till then enjoy.

Emanuel Aguilar

Check It Out: Post-Black: There and Back Again , Kerry James Marshall at U of C

2008-05-31T23:08:00.004-05:00

So I'm posting this on very short notice. Tomorrow or today (Sunday), at 2pm Kerry James Marshall, Darby English (U. of Chicago), Kym Pinder (SAIC) and Greg Foster Rice (Columbia College) will be having a discussion at University of Chicago's Kent Hall in conjunction with the Renaissance Society's exhibition “Black Is, Black Ain't”. This exhibition brings into question many things that I find intriguing and worth exploring with my work. the over popular approach to the irreverence of racial identity in today's culture is a very interesting twist in the way race is looked at in our times. Is race even important anymore, In a way the hybrid I often speak about, the idea that as our society here in the US progresses the blurred lines of cultural and racial segregation begin to go from blurry to non existent. That in todays time we are looking at exploring a new form of identity, a hybrid for say, one which is yet to be defined but is causing all sorts of new advancements in what it means to be American or better yet what it means to be an individual in all the sense of the meaning of the word. Yet with all this said it is interesting to note that the more "a like" we all become the more "different" w e tend to pull towards becoming. It is in fact that race is a construct of society yet it holds such a dominance over distribution of powers, class, and importance in society and life itself. I for one believe in the idea that as our society moves forward the question of race means less and less what it meant to those before us. This in saying that race is a thing thought and therefore its a thing that can be "unthought" in a sense. We see this in our modern day in our children. The blurring of lines is most present in children whom have yet to be tainted by the politics of society. Perhaps in these children will finally begin to move forward one becoming less aware of what makes us all different and relax with the knowledge of knowing that we are all more alike and just enough of not the same. I will be at this talk. I was just in New York at Kerry James Marshall's opening at Jack Shainman Gallery, and it was a great show. Mr. Marshall is a very talented and intelligent man but he is also a very nice and down to earth guy. If you can check out the discussion at U of C tomorrow. Ill be there.

I've attached some photos of Kerry James Marshall's work and a piece by Carl Pope.

Emanuel Aguilar

Chat It Up: Artist Interview with Photographer Beth Montoya

2008-05-26T15:29:00.008-05:00

I took a bit of a break and finished finals ( All A's , thank you) and went to New York ( got my bag stolen) but more on all that later. In this artist interview we catch up with Beth Montoya. She is a very good friend of mine who recently left the city of Chicago for Dayton, Ohio? But non the less she produces some very interesting work via photo, more specifically digital photos. Her work is very seductive in many ways, the great shots shes able to get with a digital camera, the often inclusion of sexuality, and the fact that they speak of moments that we often find very uninteresting, moments alone. You know the kind of moments shows like the Real World edit out of the final aired shows. Also in a way they speak of the form of feminism existent post women's right to vote and the whole feminist movement of the 70's and 80's. It draws on questions of what does feminism mean today in contemporary politics and society. Liberation, freedom, sex and proud?! Below we discuss her influence from Myspace and Facebook, the popular inclusion of shot glasses in contemporary self portraits, and Edward Hopper and his depressing yet beautiful works. Enjoy!!!

Emanuel Aguilar: So hello Mrs. Montoya for the record please state your full name and title.

Beth Montoya: Hello, Emanuel. My name is Beth Montoya, former bank teller.

EA: Haha. I see. well thank you for agreeing to this interview. Now i know you have said in the past you don't consider yourself an artist but I find your photography work to be out most interesting, how would you describe your photo work.

BM: Well, thank you. I'd say my work is pretty self-indulgent. Most people I know don't like to pose and I'm not generally one for scenic shots, so I just photograph myself. It's sort of half photography, half modeling. Without the anorexia.

EA: Yes, I kinda feel the same way about my work sometimes. Plus other people frustrate easily sometimes. So you would say your work is more of a productive way to pass time or do you have messages within these works. haha. Yes, very much so. maybe a little of bitchy also though, I mean they are all about you and nothing but you

BM: I definitely do tend to take more photos when there's nothing on TV and I've been on the internet for too long, but I also take these photos to show that there are more interesting ways of presenting yourself than with boring, smiling head shots.

EA: HaHa. so in a way there a response to myspace and facebook.

BM: Very much so. Nothing disappoints me more than seeing badly cropped pictures of someone posing for the camera with a shot glass.

EA: I mean you do include hints of popular culture within these photos. But the photos themselves seem very distant from popular culture or society in a way. Kinda like your in this jail or box and your only understanding of the outside is via the computer.

BM: Well, I'm a pretty distant person. I couldn't put a picture of me partying it up on my facebook profiles because such pictures do not exist.

EA: Ha, I think I've seen a few, but I also think I'm the only other person included in those photos. Distance sometimes is important in a world with so little privacy , I mean how hard is it to really just google someone and find them and all their past internet history, its almost scary. Your photos remind me of how important sometimes it is to self reflect and find ones place within the craziness that is life. I mean theres a slutty, a dorky, a geek, a jock, a everything within us all.

BM: I like self portraits because you're completely in control of the result. You decide what parts of yourself you want to show and you do it in a way that hopefully has some beauty in it. Or ugliness, if that's what you're going for. Or beauty in ugliness.

EA: Nicely Put. Ha yes, Ugly can be pretty sometimes.........Do you go into a photo knowing exactly what kind of character to portray or do you just come up with it as you go?

BM: I generally have a certain mood in mind, but I also take a lot of pictures so I can try variations. The wonders of digital cameras.

EA: Ah yes. One of the greatest invention up there with Wii and fat free soft serve ice cream. So any artist or celebrity influences you'd say are big inspirations?

BM: As you know, I've always been partial to Edward Hopper's depressing paintings. There's an untold story in each one. An untold story of isolation and loneliness. I don't think all of my photos necessarily tell a story (mostly because that involves props and settings and things I'm generally not in the mood to bother with), but I'm a big fan of isolation as portrayed in art.

EA: HAHA. You know your fascination with Mr. Hopper never made so much sens eto me as it does now. I mean you are like a living Edward Hopper painting.

BM: I think you'll agree that being social is overrated.

EA: So in conclusion, do you think you would ever consider your work as art , I mean i feel in a way your work can speak very loudly to many people on translatable terms, .... And Yes I do agree with that, sometimes all we need is a nice cup of coffee a comfy chair and a poke your friend electronic button to have a social life, and you know what thats ok with me.

BM: At the very least, I try to be artistic about the presentation. Sometimes I just take pictures of myself to be vain and see which angle of my face is the most flattering. But, you know, that's something everyone should try. Everyone can present themselves as interesting and beautiful if they're not afraid to put down the shot glass and wipe off that phony smile. And if, in the process, you can make a statement with your presentation, then, well, that's pretty cool.

EA: Your a genius, I say. Thank you very much for your time. I hope to see more vanity and self indulgence form you in the future. Till then have a pleasant day, I would say exiting and fun filled, but you currently live in Ohio.

BM: I will try.

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: Kriss Smith

2008-05-16T00:50:00.004-05:00

Kriss Smith is a dear friend of mine from the High School days. She is an amazing painter. Check out her work this Saturday.

Emanuel Aguilar

New Work : Colaboration with Ashley Bedore and for some reason Andrew Burkholder

2008-05-15T17:09:00.003-05:00

Emanuel Aguilar

Finals Week !!!!!! Ya know

2008-05-15T00:13:00.004-05:00

So it's been finals week and I've been super busy trying to finish things up. Funny a week ago I was sure i had nothing left to do and that this week would be a breeze. Man, was I wrong. But its ok. I've gotten some great critiques and comments. I'm off to New York in a week for a potential very big meeting. But ill discuss that after it happens. So its oen more day of finals then BFA show, then manifest destiny or whatever it is that Columbia festival thing is called, and then one week in the NYC and then school again , Yay. Anyways for all you college students I've added Mr. Maurizio Catellan's little squirrel piece because I'm sure we all can relate to him this week.

Emanuel Aguilar

R.I.P Robert Rauschenberg

2008-05-14T23:55:00.006-05:00

May you rest in peace Mr. Rauschenberg. For those who haven't heard Robert Rauschenberg has passed away this week. He made large contributions to modern day art practice and more so modern day art school practice. I've never been too fond of the work t he original master of the everything look did, but I can appreciate and consider it. I actually enjoyed some of his screen print paintings. I've attached some of the work I liked most of his. It's always strange when a famous artist passes, I always feel like sometimes a lot of people who aren't in art school or in the art world assume many artist are dead already if their work is in museums. I'm just ranting at this point. May he rest in peace and may his work always be remembered. Lets just hope the everything look stays in garage sales and not in art work.

R.I.P sir Rauschenberg.

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: BFA Show

2008-05-11T00:46:00.004-05:00

So a lot of my bestest buddies are graduating this semester.In honor of their accomplishment and to kick of their kick ass careers I would like to propose everyone check out the BFA show at the A & D gallery. The show will feature artist graduating in the Fine Art program this year at Columbia College also the show is curated by some fellow peeps in the Art History department. Theres bound to be some great work in it. Pictured above is a detail of a work by Theodore Boggs , or how i call him T-Bo. Ted is one of my bestest friends and a talented and very smart guy. I shall miss him a lot at school along with many peeps in the show as well like Annie Foley, Alyssa Hodes, Paul Shaufenberguer, Cain De Jesus, Morgan M., and many more. I wish you all luck and everybody show support and check out the BFA show on the 16th of May at the A & D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash.
I believe there is a preview reception on the 15th as well. Peace up, Buddy System!

BFA Show
A & D Gallery
619 S. Wabash
Chicago , IL.
Opening Receptions 15th & 16th May 2008
Emanuel Aguilar

A Day in the Life : Columbia College

2008-05-10T00:48:00.010-05:00

Thees are just random pictures of some of my peeps down at Columbia. We throw down and form a nice community of artist and friends. featured we got Theodore, Erick, James, Ashley and Andrew Bucket Holder,Vincent, Andrea, and the Harter ,Kyle Francis that is. It just goes to show that theres a great team behind all great peeps. Like Thomas Jefferson said "..Out of Many , One..". I'm really grateful and happy to have these people in my life and can thank them for the support that keeps me going. Art is hard to do without support. Buddy System.

Emanuel Aguilar

Seen on Scene: A and D Derbi / Focus on Andrea

2008-05-10T00:37:00.005-05:00

Ok so for this years A & D derby Andrea ....I cant recall her last name.......raced a dreamsicle and it was amazing. I decided to dedicate this post solely on her and her little Popsicle that could. She once gave me a talk on modesty...well I've decided to be very immodest for her and show her wonderful orange dreamsicle mobile off. She got 4th place but 3rd on default or something like that. For some reason her car enjoyed going slower than every other car but hey it got her to the top, uh almost. To Andrea I say ; Kudos! Hey if everyday outside the 623 S. Wabash Building was this fun perhaps we would all be enjoying more dreamsicles and stress less Columbia days! Enjoy the photos.

Emanuel Aguilar

Chat It Up: Interview with Artist Ashley Bedore

2008-05-08T21:00:00.012-05:00

For This Artist interview we catch up with Chicago artists Ashley Bedore. She creates these fun wonderful creatures and worlds that have always reminded me of childhood and the child in every in all of us. We hope to see a lot more of her and her work in Chicago for we all need a little fun and monster in all of our days. Below we discuss her work, the French and her grandpa and the new faith shes practicing ;worshiping Cillian Murphy. Enjoy

Eman:Hello Miss Bedore
Once Your ready I am happy to commence our artist interview for the Emanuel Aguilar blog o' art

Ashley Bedore:Well hello there. I'm ready.

E:Good!
Lets begin....So for the record state your name and title.

AB:My name is Ashley Bedore. That's about it.

E:Come on even strippers and bums have titles...no title?

AB:What sort of title? Miss? Mrs? Mr? Jr?
I guess I would be a Miss.

E:Miss it is then. But I also like the sisterhood of the traveling pants.(Shes a secret fan of such film)

AB:Hahahahaa...Oh gosh. Yes. Ok. I can be sister Ashley. Or does that sound a bit too religious?
I think I spelled that wrong...

E:Sis Miss Ashley. There it's your title. So tell me a little about your work as an artist.

AB:That's a frightenly broad question.

E:Ok lets get more specific what medium do you primarily like to use to create your wondrous little world o' creatures.

AB:Usually pen. I hate pencils...I don't like to erase things. I like fine pens, usually Faber-Castell size S. That's the best one.
Lately I've also been into coloring in with prismacolors in the French Grey scale. I love the prismacolor effect.

E:I like how specific you you got with the answer. I saw you reach for that pen. I mean......you described it well(Were next to each other but communicating via internet)

AB:Thank you. It's a special pen to me. I'm also fond of the Precise pens...but it's a completely different effect, you know? I need both with me at all times depending on what sort of look I want the drawings to have.

E:I see I see. So i find it interesting that you say you don't like erasing. As a matter a fact a friend of mine, whom shall remain unmentioned(KF Harter), was speaking with me about how great drawing skills you have and how fast you draw.

AB:I'm very flattered to hear that!

E:Good. How do you come up with your creatures? And may I ask is Bedore French in origin?

AB:Yes, Bedore is French. It used to be Bedard before my people came to Canada back in the day. Then they changed it for some unknown reason. I'm very interested in genealogy....my grandpa did this big research project on that side of the family and I'm fascinated by it. I'm sorry...a bit off topic.

E:Meh French, grandpa, Canada, all creatures in a sense.

AB:As for the creatures...they tend to come pretty easily to me. Like as a kid I used to only draw made-up animals. Never people or real things. I used to give them these complex names...I don't know. I think most kids do that.

E:Yeah true. They remind me of childhood..your creatures I mean.. not the French or grandpa.

AB:hahaha

E:I hear you laughing so loud

AB:That's kind of creepy

E:yeah I know. Anyways moving on. How do you feel about your future plans. Any kids? Career? More creatures? Children's books. Adult books?

AB:As far as art goes...I'm not really sure at the moment. I'm just starting to figure out what I really want to do...I have hopes of working for a design firm or group or something like that. Some freelance on the side. I don't want to rely on freelance though...I need to work with other people I think. But other than a job that makes me money....I would like to keep screen printing. Maybe make some more posters...I hope to keep up personal work and have it shown in a gallery every now and then. But I do love doing work for other people. I guess that's why I'm an illustration major.

E:Well your really good at what you do. Ive heard several people speak about wanting you to do some gallery shows. I think your work is interesting in the fact that it reminds me of how adults sometimes should remember that we were once children and that we need to chilax from time to time. Ya heard?

AB:Wow, thanks! This is such a confidence-booster interview, hahaa
I would love to work and collab with other people, FYI.

E:So no worries all is possible I believe. Like your creatures say. Argh Argh Argh! I mean ya know . Well I think we all need to be reminded from time to time, in particular from our peers, that we rule! And listening to "We will rock you" by Queen only helps to fill the power !

AB:YES!
Yes to all that.

E:Yes lets collaborate!I'm horrible at illustration, but I'm down. I can maybe make something shiny and you make something creatury, together. Ok one final question, what is the faith of Cillian Murphy you practice all about?(She claims this to be her faith of Choice....I'm Intrigued)

AB:It's a very secret organization. We're (I'm) planning the destruction of mankind by a killer virus so that Cillian and I are the only two people left alive. On an island of course so that we can eventually be rescued and brought back to live with the rest of humanity. Or maybe not. I'm not sure yet...the details still have to be worked out.

E:Well good luck on that...I think. I hear he's from Europe. Is'nt that island? Anyways any final words?

AB:I think just thank you for interviewing me...really, I'm flattered. And that I am always open for collaboration but also critique from my peers. And that I love the group of people that I work with/have come to known at the lab here. Yup. That's about it. Lambs rock.

E:You Rock n' a roll a! Thanks to you for agreeing to the interview. See ya around. Have a good Night.

AB:You too! Night.

You Can Visit Ashley's Website here http://lambsinmotion.com/home.html or her blog at http://ashleybedore.blogspot.com/
Emanuel Aguilar

Eman Art Talk: New Work/ "Untitled (Bricks/ Out of Many, One)"

2008-05-06T18:56:00.005-05:00

Here is a new piece sorrounding my obssession with bricks and how many bricks form a "one". Thomas Jefferson once said that the brick was representative of America because, in contrast to the large marble components of the old world, the brick was used in a series of many units. Therefore stating that out of many came one, such as America. I find this very intriguning. This idea that many make one in our understanding of America. For every brick is the same in a generic sense but each brick has different characteristics that make it unique and special. Each brick is one alone, though made from a mold it stands alone as that one brick. In terms of chrome, reflective surfaces have a strong power in the s ens e that they only give you as much as you give them. All colors and all things are refl;ected by mirror. Thus incorporating a reflective surface brings the viewer as part of each work. tehre is a strong direction in my work in which iwant every person who sees it to bring everything of who they are to it. the key here is not to explore my work but to explore yourself with my work. The reflective bricks just insinuate even more so that we are all part of this "one" Thomas Jefferson spoke of. all in our own different existence with our own different idyosincracies, are together one.

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: Andrew Burkholder & Anna Pamasa

2008-05-03T18:03:00.005-05:00

Here are some pics from Anna's and Andrew's show at the A & D gallery. Also I've included some pictures of the opening.

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: Andrew Burkholder & Anna Pamasa

2008-04-29T00:23:00.005-05:00

Check out my friends Anna Pamasa and Andrew Burkholder's show at the A & D gallery. they are recipients of the Pougialis award 2007. They deserved it. Show support. Buddy System!

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: Kyle Harter

2008-04-28T18:07:00.003-05:00

Support the buddy system.

Emanuel Aguilar

Eman Talks: Reflection on Pougialis

2008-04-26T18:57:00.007-05:00

So Pougialis is over, the annual scholarship competition where fine art students are asked to install work of their choice along with a artist statement and await judgment by the fine art faculty to see who falls deserving of a handsome prize scholarship etc. Ok i will say a few things on this mater. I will not mention the winners by name for i feel one of them does enough self promotion and i wouldn't want to add to such. I didn't win , which is fine, i am very ambitious and hard working but i have things going on. I do however feel disappointed i did so much work this semester and fell short in the eyes of the judges. But i feel even worse for my colleagues, they worked so hard and there were so many more deserving individuals then those who won. Columbia is slowly self destructing its fine art program, and the faculty and staff wonder why the A & D department continues to fall more and more every semester. Figure it out A & D department. P.S f0llowing a conservative stale decision making in your support for mediocre work is not going to help bring your program forward. Pay attention to your students, more than the one or two who suck up to you. There is so much thought and talent in this fine art program but none of you are encouraging anything beyond. All is politics and there so i finish with saying , I'm offended.

Here are some pieces i entered in this show. The over all wall looked better. I wanted to share these works with everyone. The first one is Untitled (Native Language) . It is a weaved piece of both the Mayan Creation myth ; Pophul vuh and Native American communication symbols. It is made of latex, mylar, copper and acrylic. It means a lot to me. There is mix feelings about this piece but i ask my audience to always question what everything means to them. What does it mean for me to have hand copied these documents. What does it mean to weave different languages, different communications, and even more so important different cultures? What does it mean to America?

Second is a resin piece dedicated to exploring Elian Gonzalez. Well better ye remembering him. He made such a huge impact on American news, life, media yet it's perceived as a Latino story. It's an American story. And it had much greater impact on Americans than anyone else. Plus i ponder often where is he now and with no question his story affected him the most. I tie this piece to the desaparecidos series. Because in a way we relate to this story as humans and it involves borders and tragedies as well.

The third piece is Untitled ( American Heroes; Clint, Vicente, John........). Here i was interested in exploring the universal image of the T-Shirt across cultural lines and the universal influence of the cowboy in American and Latino identity. The installation came out better than i hoped. It was a beautiful piece that i felt like spoke to the viewer almost poetically floating in the air. I dunno. I liked it.

Well thanks for hearing me rant and all. Hope you guys like the work. To those who won pugialis, prepare for the real world. Chicago lives in a bubble, but its still pretty hostile one at that.

Emanuel Aguilar

Eman Art Talk : The Politics of Aesthetics

2008-04-21T23:55:00.005-05:00

Today to start off, was a strange day. But a lot of what i conversed and did today dealt with the question of beauty. Now beauty as we all generally think does not work in universal realms. In particular with art one often finds an approach to artwork as whether its beautiful or not. What we often don't question here is what dictates beauty. If beauty is power in our society, beauty always gets its way, and beauty more than how can beauty not be seen as a political, as a reflection on our ideals and direction as a society and culture.

Of course one can always argue that beauty is beauty and in no way shape or form should beauty be tainted by the questions of elitism and politics. But since were in the topic of art i beg one to ponder, who buys art, who sells art, and who makes art. The big million dollar sales that we hear of in art auctions are not being shared by the artist. The power and benefit there remains within those with power or better yet those with money. But i don't want to make this a question of money versus culture or whatever. My interest here is how beauty is powerful in our world.

I explore aesthetics in my work. And it is true beauty does get the attention and the allure.
Today i delivered a painting from the gallery to a clients house. As i drove up 41 to the north shore i kept glancing at my backseat and wondering why a painting such as the one in my back seat, of birds and spheres and dull in colors, was worth 12,000$.

I never finished this post. I moved on. Plus my Pugialis post above proves my points even more so.

The piece above is entitled Untitled ( Aesthetics) 2007

Eman News: My Job

2008-04-20T20:46:00.007-05:00

So im still an emily to Jean Albano Gallery. Jean Albano Gallery has been the gallery i've worked for in the last three years. Im having second thought however on if i would care to remain there. Well see were this goes. I like my job but it is straining on a full time life. Sometimes it's just time to move on. A lot has been happening in my own career this year that the gallery work is becoming almost tough to want to get accomplished. But I have learned a lot from this place. Installation, lighting, i've met so many noted people and ive been able to explore the business side of the art world. A side i fear most artist arent aware for the most part dominates a lot of the art worlds direction and functions. At the end all is business and even artist should take this into consideration. The days of the bohemina lifestyle are gone. Whats an artist to do in the days of Damien Hirst and Matthew Barney. In the days were media sponsors the arts and so forth the arts become media. So many things i think about regarding these issues. But for now ill leave it at this. Anyways enjoy pictures of me and my coworkers at the Jean Albano Gallery.

Pictured are Lindsey Walton and Sarah Kaliski Roll. Theya re my coworkers. The photos are of a recent opening we had. The fact taht the devil is present only make it an intriguing addition take it business is the art of the devil. Anyways it was a fun night.

Chat It Up: Interview with Artist Kyle Harter

2008-04-18T23:26:00.000-05:00

So for my first artist interview we checked up on Kyle Harter or as i call him Harter.He's a good friend of mine and fellow Chicago based artist. Kyle's work seems to me always to have this very innocent look at society and culture. Exploring issues with not so much serriousness but all the importance. Its kinda like thinking of things as just are, or why is the the sky blue and not turquoise? Im a big fan of Kyle's and here we discuss his work, his cat and chapstick's relationship to toilet paper.

EMAN:So for the Record wat's your name and title

Kyle Harter:My name is Kyle Harter, and i thought my name WAS my title?

E:Well i suppose it is a title.

KH: Mister Kyle Harter?

E:I like it sounds like a stage name.

KH: Hells yeah, Keep Going.

E:Ok ,so what would you say dominates your work in terms of mediums and practice

KH: I have 70 000 pens.

E: Did you just count those, is that what took so long?

KH: Basically.

E: Well count again maybe you missed one or five.

KH: Well , know im not that exact, Im not really sure where I fit in as far as mediums an practices go. I just do what feels right.

E: Hmm nice, like women?

KH:Except women have boobs.

E: Is that how you go about coming up with your subject matter also.And may i add women do have boobs but so does art sometimes.

KH:I dont remember the last time I drew a boob.
However you are inspiring me as we speak. I like to make things for people.

E: So im like a muse?

KH: Yes you have muse tendencies but then again so does my cat.

E: I can see how that works. I recall once seeing that "I need a soda" piece and all I couldd think was man I really do want a soda also. It spoke to me in a very selfish i want a soda now way. I like that.I like cats.

KH:Hey sometimes you have to treat yourself to a good soda every once in a while, ya know? I don't know, I just feel like the world is filled with things I dont understand. Like ads on the subway, I mean how many adds of the same toilet paper ad do i really need to see?

E: Yeah I know, I did that today actually. it was grape in flavor. Well some are soft and some are rougher, I mean which do you buy ( In terms of toilet Paper)?

KH: That's the kind of thing I don't understand. I just want toilet paper that doesn't make me want to buy chap stick for my butt too.

E:Yeah but then if there wasnt such toilet paper what would the people who make chapstick for your butt sell?It's all a viscous circle.

KH:Maybe they would pick a different profession, like a federal mayonise inspector.

E:Sounds greasy . So could I say in a way you tend to make some sort of observation on society and culture with your work. or is that taking it too far.

KH:That sounds about right.

E: I kinda want chapstick now. However that's what I think of when I see your work ; soda,culture, society ,happy, sad, confusing and toilet paper.

KH:In the famous words of my great great grandfather Jean Monnet, "Everybody is ambitious. The question is whether he is ambitious to be or ambitious to do."

E:Amen.

Chat It Up : Artist Interviews

2008-04-17T01:32:00.000-05:00

I'm looking to start adding artist interviews on here to more personally explore what local artist are exploring. So look out for those. First one will probably be up by next week. Peace up .

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: Nice One

2008-04-14T23:57:00.000-05:00

Eman Art Talk: Untitled ( Desaparecidos)

2008-04-14T23:25:00.000-05:00

As the day soon nears when i must part with my work Untitled (desaparecidos) i feel i should share some info on them. they are two of many but they are the first two so they are special.

The work are faces of the same person. A woman missing who tried to immigrate to the United States. Her family never heard form her again and information on her disapearance doesnt exist easily on this side of the border. It was hard to find information on anyone missing who has tried to chase that American Dream we all hear about but never truly see.

But first maybe i should explain why it was important for me taht i start exploring these people and commemorate them in some way. See wether we see the issue of immigration as a political issue negatively or possitively whichever way or how, it ios a human reaction we have to the dissapearance of someone. Latino pressence has become so much a part of American identity and as a Latino American myself i feel that this issue of immigration affects me not just as a LAtino but even more so as an American. See the things is theese are people, people who died attempting to attain some sort of dream. The reaction to this isnt political, the issue is political, but we can relate to this kindof tragedy as human. For it is a thing that we can universaly understand that death is human and that this kind of tragedy is real. That this knd of tragedy can be felt and understood on both sides of such abstract border. And so forth thsi is why it is important that i commemorate these people. For they are as much a part of me as an American as tehy are as a Latino because in the end they were Human jsut like you and me.

I hope Columbia treasures these pieces greatly. I will continue making tributes in this way to those who disappear . I do have to receive information from accross the border or so because its hard to attain such information here. But also speaking of materials used. Powdered graphite creates an image but it is hard to hold it dissapaears. Resin captures what it can and freezes it making the work an attempt to capture what will be lost no matter what. A frozen glimpse of a memory.

Thanks C Spaces and Columbia for Honoring me with this recognition of this work.

Emanuel Aguilar

Friends of Eman: Jared Hatch

2008-04-12T18:23:00.000-05:00

Show some support for the Rad or aka Jared Hatch and also Arbor Day. Knwoing Jared this should be an event were one can expect almost anything to happen. peace.

-emanuel aguilar

Friends of Eman Show: South Union Arts

2008-04-12T00:28:00.001-05:00

A few of my friends including Kyle Harter, Sean Kenan, and Andrew Burkholder or as i call him Bucket holder will be in a show at the south union arts church this Saturday night. Its a big show including over 30 artist. My peeps included are some pretty good artist i can only imagine the good caliber of the show. everyone should check it out its in University Village. Ive included some photos pf some of Kyle Harter's work and Sean Keanan's. I couldn't find any of Andrews. Andrew!!

1352 S. UNION in Chicago
(just 2 blocks south of Roosevelt Rd)
Opening Saturday 12th April.
7PM

Friends of Eman Show: Jessica Castaneda

2008-04-12T00:10:00.000-05:00

My friend and fellow artist Jessica Castaneda will have work up at Kristoffer's cafe through out the month of April. Her work surrounds portraiture approached via metal work, drawing, and linoleum print making. The cafe is in Pilsen. Check it out and show some support for my girl Jess.

Kristoffer's Cafe
1733 S. Halsted

Union League Club of Chicago Gives me No Prize

2008-04-11T23:51:00.000-05:00

So i had applied for a scholarship award opportunity at the Union League Club of Chicago. I entered some of the same work that i did into the Honors exhibition. However the Honors award, which was judged by some of the leading women in art in Chicago, granted me first place. But the Union League Club informed me today via email that though they see much "merit" in my work they have not chosen me for anything. This is fine you cant win them all. I could have used the money to make more work but it's ok. I had been told that the Union League usually awards more imagery and traditional kinda work which really doesn't fit me. So in that sens i guess thats ok because I'd like to think I'm exploring more contemporary outlets in my issues. But I appreciate the email and the opportunity to compete given to me by of the Union League Club of Chicago. Now ill just have to work even harder. No fuss no muss. or however the saying goes. Next.

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