ArtNet Names 50 Most Exciting Artists of 2014
artnet recently released its list of most exciting artists of the year and SAIC artists took four of the spots, which are listed in no particular order: alumni Pablo Helguera (BFA 1993) and Tania Bruguera (MFA 2001), Photography faculty member LaToya Ruby Frazier, and honorary doctorate recipient Theaster Gates (2014).
According to the publication, there are three good reasons to put together such a list of important artists: "Firstly, lists like these can help soothe the sense of helplessness many folks feel about visual art's current transformation into a plaything for the megarich. Secondly, similar lineups organize ideas about the role critically minded art can play in a rapidly changing art ecology. And thirdly, the exercise—together with other end of the year wrap-ups—helps reestablish a sturdy counter-agenda to those put forward by auction houses, art fairs, and art market skills."
In celebration of alum Georgia O’Keeffe: My New Yorks opening current SAIC students were invited to submit artworks inspired by O’keeffe and the city of Chicago.
An image from the exhibition opening of “My Chicagos: SAIC Students Honor Georgia O’Keeffe.”