On The Block: Art Stars Emerge To Aid FIAR At Paddle8
Author:Philip FerratoSet on a narrow strip of dunes between Long Island’s Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Cherry Grove is accessible only by ferry or water taxi. There are no cars, no streetlights, and despite the fabled gay community’s proximity to New York City, the real world slips away quickly.
Each summer since 2011, Fire Island Artists Residency (FIAR) has provided studio space, lodging, plus a small stipend to five LGBT or queer-identifying artists for a month in Cherry Grove. A steadfast supporter of FIAR and other arts organizations, this is Paddle8’s second online auction to benefit the residency’s programs with fresh, recent works donated by various artists. Below, Lot No. 2, Mickalene Thomas’ Afro Muse, a black and white photograph from an edition of 10, expected to sell for about $6,500.
Last week, two Cherry Grove landmarks were consumed by fire, the Ice Palace and the adjacent hotel, along with Holly House, FIAR’s headquarters and studio space. In response, Paddle8 extended the auction and even more of FIAR’s artist supporters generously donated works. Below, two standout works in the sale, Lot No. 4, Nayland Blake’s Dust, a 72×48-inch printed polyester fabric panel that’s already attracted 7 bids, currently at $1,850, and Lot No. 3, Ryan McGinley’s 20×30-inch C-print Jasper (Red Mohawk).
From their website: “FIAR hopes to bring both new creative perspectives and prestigious art professionals together in this extraordinary location to foster the creation—and preservation—of queer art-making in contemporary art.” Lot No. 17, Brendan Fernandes’ Digital C-print I don’t speak enlglish, below, is currently bidding at $1,250.
For more about FIAR’s mission and programs, check out their website. Below, Lot No. 23, Brian Kokoshka’s 2015 oil on canvas Ocean Girl (Water Gves her Life) has four bids and is currently at $2,600.
A Benefit Auction for FIAR: Fire Island Artist Residency
March 20 through April 8, 2015
