Organizers of a new project called WellFair hope to bring local artists together to unite artistic talent and facilitate communication in the art industry, held at MJQ Concourse the last Tuesday of every month.
?There's a huge underground art scene in Atlanta,? states Eric Painter, a student at GSU and one of the founders of the project. ?Even though some people are members of well known organizations and groups, there is no real cohesiveness in the community.
Wellfair knows the strength in numbers, and attempts to broaden the somewhat limited art circles which currently exist.?
?When there is a lot of talent in one room, you find it very easy to meet people who are willing to invest effort into creating works that could eventually change the face of independent film and art in this city,? states Eric.
The audience turnout for the first Wellfair held August 27, 2002 and constant phone calls, along with film submissions from local and international filmmakers, demonstrate the enthusiasm and support for the monthly show.
For their first show the organizers expected about 60 people and reserved only half of the venue. As the night progressed there were more than 150 people, and the venue overflowed.
For the Sept. 24, 2002 show space was not an issue. The show started at 9:00 p.m. and lasted until 11:21 p.m. People enjoyed the down tempo rock, chill, yet engaging beat of DJ Mellow D for the first half-hour.
The remaining time focused on the viewing of various short films such as ?She and I as One? submitted by Douglas Hiengarter from New York. In this short piece Douglas morph?s his face and poses into that of Britney Spears, and they become one. This piece is hilarious; Douglas could easily be mistaken for Britney?s biological brother. What?s amazing is Douglas?s resemblance to the pop star.
Gabe Hines, a volunteer at WellFair, enjoyed ?Met State? submitted by Bryan Papclak from Massachusetts.
?It gave a realistic visual into an abandoned Insane Asylum. The message of loneliness and misery of the place was relayed,? says Gabe. J Ivcevich sums it all up as a ?stop animation, textural exploration of organic and institutional decay.?
During intermission people checked out the artwork displayed throughout MJQ by local artists. WellFair wants you to come and see the creativity for yourself.
Submissions for film and artwork are strongly encouraged. If interested the website is wellfair.net.
Eric Painter, Fritz Hamel, Charlsey Adkins, and Stephanie Macksey are the organizers for WellFair.
The concept is for a place where artists are not charged to showcase their talent and promote their work.
The organizers have dedicated their time for this cause, so come out and support them. Entry into WellFair is free, and donations are accepted.
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