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Gowanus Open Studios

10/23/2015

2 Comments

 
Last weekend I hopped on the F train into Brooklyn to see what the artists there are up to these days. At least the ones that signed up for the annual Gowanus Open Studios. It was a treat to chat with the artists about their work and their set ups in the quaint old warehouses and factories. And to take a break from gigantic skyscrapers to see the offbeat mix of low-rise residential and industrial buildings. And get a real good look at the sky for a change.
Picture
Canal Cloud Reflections, 2010, by Ella Yang

A Canal Runs Through It

Once upon a time Gowanus was a booming industrial and commercial district. Millions and millions of tons of cargo came through the Gowanus Canal each year. In the 1940s all the activity started tapering off, when trucks began toting goods over the newly constructed Gowanus Expressway. What remained was a waterway with a powerful stench that glowed in the dark. And eventually a Superfund site.

Yet in spite of it, or maybe even because of it, the area has a certain melancholic romance. The kind you might feel standing in front of an ancient ruin. But don't let the dilapidation fool you. There's plenty of life yet in the old neighborhood. Because here come the artsy types to enliven it with their energy and creative spirit. Followed in hot pursuit by the insatiable real estate developers. And then Starbucks. And then the inevitable Whole Foods, complete with a picturesque view of a scrap metal yard. ​
Picture
Nightfall, Union Street Bridge, by Elizabeth O'Reilly

There's No Place Like Home

Although artists came in all stripes at the Gowanus Open Studios, the representational ones interested me the most. So I went armed with a list and hunted through the studios for them. My favorites were Ella Yang and Elizabeth O'Reilly, two artists inspired by the eccentric beauty of a faded canal right in their own back yard. Some day I'd love to go back to Gowanus and paint it with them.
Picture
Silver Light, Union St Bridge, 2012 by Elizabeth O'Reilly
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2 Comments
Joan Tavolott link
10/28/2015 11:31:08 am

Sounds like a fun day of visits. Were you with us at the Gawanus recently? It is a fun area to sketch.

Reply
Julie
10/29/2015 09:55:52 am

No, I didn't make it to the Gowanus trip with the Urban Sketchers. But I was jealous so I went another day by myself!

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    Julie Kessler

    My name is Julie Kessler and I'm a representational artist. I love painting in oils with their vibrant, juicy colors. Lately I've been exploring the unique qualities of gouache, watercolors, colored pencils and other media. I started this blog to share my work and thoughts about making art. I toss other things into the mix too, such as painters that I love, and art books and exhibits that inspire me. Your comments are welcome. I'd love to hear from you! 


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