First Studio's new art exhibit, “Celebrating the CIRCLE: The Universal Shape that Inspired Humanity,” stands out among the crowd as a unique art show for newcomers and professional artists alike and is gearing up to serve the public on Sept. 4.
Kris Kollasch and Geoff Gildner have co-curated a show that takes an ordinary shape and transforms it into something more.
Kollasch works in the studio to make the shows happen, while ASU alumnus Gildner is a local artist that proposed the theme to Kollasch.
The inspiration came from Gildner’s background in history and experience in architecture. With that, the idea was born and spread to the art community in a call for submissions.
This particular gallery showcases a simple theme that has been expanded into a world of infinite possibilities that these artists have interpreted in their own special way.
“Some are so different and some are so alike,” he said. "With a combination of medium, all of the art works together to showcase the theme."
With the collaboration of 25 artists from around the Valley, this show opens up a diverse perspective into something as simple as a circle. Each individual brings something new to their pieces that are displayed throughout the gallery.
“There is a vast spectrum of quality work that is being showcased from seasoned and new artists that are featured in the show,” Gildner said.
Beyond the show, First Studio is a multi-functional space that has served as more than a gallery for years.
First Studio occupies the space in which the first television and radio studio in Phoenix resided.
“There’s a lot of firsts in this building,” she said. “On the wall of history, they have a photograph of JFK driving by the front of the building. This was the place to be, and we’re trying to keep that happening.”
Beyond the history, Kollasch looks to introduce other mediums of art like live bands and dance lessons for the public to enjoy.
“We try to bring other things into the space so that it’s not just visual arts,” she said. "That way, those that come for the dance lessons are also exposed to the visual aspect of the space and vice versa."
The opening reception will be on First Friday from 6 to 10 p.m., but there will also be an artist’s reception on Third Friday, Sep. 18, that will help the community meet the artists that helped make this happen.
It’s an intimate affair, because it’s not as busy," Gildner said. "So if anyone wants to come and meet the artists, it’s a perfect opportunity for someone to connect to the area."
Kollasch echoed these sentiments with a simple slogan that she hopes will apply to all.
"Make First Studio your first stop for First Fridays," she said.
The show will be running throughout the month of September. If you are interested in possibly working on a theme or have any ideas for future shows, stop by the studio.
Correction: An original version of this story said the exhibit was opening on Sep. 1 and the artists reception was occurring on that date . It is actually opening on Sep. 4 and the artist's reception is occurring on Third Friday, Sep. 18. A correction has been made.
Contact the reporter at rramir30@asu.edu or @rubythewriter on Twitter.
