BWAC presents its Water Show at the Red Hook Pier.

Author by Anonymous

July 9, 2004 -- There is no better time to visit Red Hook than this summer when the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (BWAC) presents its Water Show at the Red Hook Pier. With cool breezes along the waterfront and refreshing new works of art inside an historic Civil War era warehouse gallery, visitors can simultaneously experience a unique art scene and a Brooklyn waterfront neighborhood. Each artwork at the Water Show relates in some manner, whether representational, abstract or conceptual, to the theme of water. Expect to find a myriad of water-full imagery: a stormy ocean day on Fire Island, a festive Coney Island boardwalk, a super fun-filled Brighton Beach, or the majestic New York Harbor.



Over 600 pieces of art are on exhibition including photography, paintings, mixed media, sculpture; all contemplating water as a theme. Some 300 BWAC member artists are participating, including established and emerging artists, as well as a many new artists showing at BWAC for the first time. As with any thematic show, there is a gamble: does the theme produce art that creates fresh, new associations or does it artificially limit the artistic effort. Organizers for the Water Show believe the public will be rewarded with an abundance of visual excitement. "The Water Show has an inspiring effect on all who visit. Spend the afternoon and take in the amazing vistas that the pier provides and the breeze that flows in from the bay," says BWAC President John Strohbeen. The wide range of art on a single theme encourages visitors to contemplate the artists' interpretations, share their reactions, and really enjoy the art viewing experience.



"It's a truly exhilarating collection of work," says Water Show Chairperson, Daniel Durning, "and a must-see for anyone checking out the Brooklyn art scene."



BWAC's group exhibitions, notably its recent Pier Art Show which this spring drew record numbers of visitors, have developed into a new market for art collectors and critics. By promoting art that is affordable, accessible and collectible, BWAC fulfills its mandate as a non-profit arts organization dedicated to bringing the artist community and the public together. Each purchase of art from BWAC continues to reinforce the view that art can be discovered outside of Chelsea and that it is collectible, affordable, and enjoyable. "As the shows become stronger," says BWAC President John Strohbeen, "more and more purchases take place. This is what BWAC is here for; to present excellent works that are meant to be collected."



The opening reception for the Water Show is on Saturday July 17th from 12pm to 6pm. Contemporary Violinist Christian Howes will be performing two sets during the opening at 2pm and 3:30pm. Howes has performed on such prestigious stages as the Newport, Toronto, Ottawa, and Tri-C jazz festivals and at such world-renowned venues as Birdland, Iridium, the Knitting Factory, Blues Alley, and the Village Vanguard.



"Howes' music is such a great metaphor for the work at the Water Show, rich, diverse, refreshing, and built upon a strong tradition," says BWAC President John Strohbeen, "It will be a truly wonderful opening day."



All in all if you want to see an excellent collection of art, and want an excuse to get out of the city on a hot summer weekend, come to the Red Hook waterfront, cool off, and enjoy the amazing views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty.



Additional information:

The Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (BWAC) is the largest artist-run association in Brooklyn. Since its inception in 1978, BWAC has grown to include over 400 artist members. BWAC supports the growth of the visual arts by sponsoring several large group exhibitions each year which encourage public interaction with the vibrant artist community of Brooklyn. For the past twelve years, BWAC has utilized the dramatic waterfront warehouse at Greg O'Connell's Beard Street Pier in Red Hook. These shows have become premier art events in Brooklyn. All shows are produced with the efforts of volunteers - everything from installation to publicity. As BWAC continues to grow, the tradition of service to emerging artists and the cultural life of New York remains its primary commitment.



Contact Information: (718) 596-2507; www.bwac.org; bwac2000@hotmail.com



Location and Directions: Pier Art Show 12 is located at 499 Van Brunt, Brooklyn.



Both the B77 (G and F Train to Smith/9th) and the B61 (A and F Train to Jay Street) buses go to Van Brunt Street (last stop).



Approximately 20 minutes by car from downtown Manhattan: Brooklyn Bridge becomes Adam Street, make a right onto Atlantic Avenue, left onto Columbia Street, right onto Degraw, left onto Van Brunt and continue on Van Brunt to end. From Brooklyn: Northwest on Hamilton Ave., make a left onto Van Brunt. Continue on Van Brunt to end. Parking is available. Biking is a breeze.



In addition to the works of the Water Show, the drawings and models used to create the works at the outdoor sculpture show, Chasing Rainbows, located at the Brooklyn Bridge Empire State Park during the month of July, will be on display at the Red Hook Pier.



Learn more about Christian Howes, playing at the Water Show on opening day June 17, at his website http://www.christianhowes.com