Away from Desk is a new initiative by Keith J. Varadi of Gene's Dispensary and hosted by Wilshire Online.
In an era as uncertain as this one, it's imperative to identify who and what matters most to us. Countless social, political, and economic factors have had a palpable negative impact on the arts - and culture at large - for decades: the cost of living has become nearly impossible for the majority of those in the United States, including for the many artists and arts professionals who already live such incredibly precarious lives; funding for most public institutions is being slashed at the most rapid of rates; and late-stage capitalism and neoliberal ideals have taken such a stranglehold over society that scores of people who may have previously been outspoken about any number of issues have since become more mum out of fear of retaliation in the form of being iced out of opportunities, dwindling sales, less visibility, etc.
Thanks to the increasingly publicized authoritarian actions committed by the American government, many of our citizens are only now having their eyes peeled open to the harsh realities of our contemporary life, in which myriad oppressive forces have been bringing and keeping us down. But it is times like these when so much of the most engaging and enduring art is executed and exhibited; it is times like these when we must focus on and celebrate community and collaboration; it is times like these that remind us of the power and potential of creative endeavors. There is still hope, there is still strength, there is still dignity.
The objective of this project is to offer an opportunity for five distinct galleries that mostly operate outside the norms of the art world to highlight a range of important artists and to feel a sense of shared pride in being part of a greater, deeper conversation. The world is constantly changing in haste. We all ought to be looking towards new models in which we serve each other's needs. Genuine connections are more crucial than ever before. Art should be a conduit for making that possible.
This is not an alternative art fair; rather, it is more accurately an alternative to art fairs. This is not simply an off-site exhibition, either. The project will commence during fair week in Los Angeles and will remain open for three weeks, offering a hybridized model between art fair and exhibition programming duration. During fair week, there will be regular open hours; after the initial week, viewings will be available by appointment only.
Step away from your desk. Get offline. Come to Wilshire Online.
