SHY RABBIT

The Contemporary Photograph

2009-01-27T16:01:00.015-07:00

A National Juried Exhibition

Deadline for Submission: March 20, 2009 (postmark)
Exhibition Dates: May 2 – June 6, 2009

PROSPECTUS
Download Full Prospectus Here

ELIGIBILITY
Any person over the age of 18 may submit images for consideration. Art must be original and created by the person who submits the work. All submissions must have been completed in the last three years. Weight limit for wall-mounted works may not exceed
25 lbs.

JUROR
Professional Artist and Arts Educator, D. Michael Coffee, has over 30 years of combined experience in architecture, ceramics, painting, photography and fine art printmaking. As Co-Founder and Creative Director of SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Coffee has been responsible for organizing, curating and installing over 20 fine art exhibitions over the course of the last five years. For more information on D. Michael Coffee:
Visit his website here

Coffee is credited with transforming SHY RABBIT into the region’s most important and innovative contemporary arts space through the high level and broad range of the contemporary work and educational programs presented. For more information on SHY RABBIT:
Visit SHY RABBIT's Website

Coffee’s high-fired ceramics and monoprints are included in nearly 250 prestigious public and private collections throughout the world, including the Vance Kirkland Museum, Denver, Colorado; the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA), Pomona, California; the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS), Santa Monica; California; and the Dee Roy & Mary M. Jones Collection, Pomona, CA; among others.

JUROR’S JUDGING & SELECTION CRITERIA
The broad theme suggested by The Contemporary Photograph is intended to maximize the range of contemporary expression that may be submitted. This is an open call to all photographers and artists using light’s radiant energy in order to create images on various capture media, resulting in 2-D, 3-D and/or mixed media work.

Given the broad theme, I will select those submissions that: demonstrate a non-conventional approach to the photographic process or that utilize conventional techniques to create truly unique and original work; show a desire to create to the threshold; are the most compelling, interesting, and/or well executed; are appropriately and/or professionally presented; are original in style, and are contemporary/timely in feel or tone. I will also be looking for enough work in 2 and 3 dimensional mediums to allow for an interesting, varied and balanced installation, in keeping with the high level and broad range of contemporary work that SHY RABBIT has presented in the past.

Finally, I will be selecting three artists from this exhibition who will be invited to show an expanded body of their work in a special exhibition at SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts in mid to late 2010.

It is my hope that this exhibition will open the door to new concepts of how a photograph is created and expand commonly held perceptions of what photography can be.

-D. Michael Coffee
Coffee's Website
SHY RABBIT's Website

Notes from SHY RABBIT; January, 2009

2009-01-12T14:49:00.003-07:00

SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts is pleased to publish the second edition of “Notes from SHY RABBIT”; a comprehensive listing of art exhibitions, workshops and programs.

Notes from SHY RABBIT is updated quarterly and will include:

•At a Glance
•Exhibition Schedule (In Review and Upcoming)
•WORK-Shops
•ArtistsNet
•ARTAdvantage Program

At a Glance: SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

Known as Southern Colorado’s premier contemporary art destination, SHY RABBIT is now celebrating its fifth year of operation in Pagosa Springs. The 4,000 square foot arts facility is located ‘off the beaten path’ in a wooded commercial district on the west end of town. SHY RABBIT houses a fine art gallery and ceramic studio, two mixed-media workshops, exhibition space, and a print studio gallery.

SHY RABBIT is currently offering educational workshops in ceramics, printmaking, and artist professional development year round, and is gaining national recognition for the high caliber of its gallery offerings and rotating exhibitions.

SHY RABBIT is widely acknowledged for its continuing contribution to the advancement of contemporary art and art education in the Four Corners region. Operating as a social mission-based enterprise, SHY RABBIT is interested in strengthening our creative economy and improving the quality of life in our community.

SHY RABBIT Exhibition Schedule: In Review
(September, 2008 – January, 2009)

”DIALOGUES” (October 4 – November 15, 2008) was a highly successful group exhibition that served to introduce the work of four talented emerging and nationally recognized artists new to SHY RABBIT walls. This eclectic exhibition featured works that suggested an exchange of ideas and opinions by: Carrianne Hendrickson, New York, ceramics; Marcie Paper, New York, paintings; Jeff Pender, North Carolina, ceramics; and Christopher St. John, New Mexico, paintings/drawings. The exhibition also included a collaborative “DIALOGUES” Project by Debra Blair, New Mexico, paintings; and Marti Bledsoe, Colorado, monoprints, in the SHY RABBIT print studio gallery. ”DIALOGUES” will be repeated annually, featuring artist submissions received by SHY RABBIT and reviewed for consideration for exhibition and/or gallery feature throughout the course of the year.

“For the Small of It” (November 22, 2008 – January 17, 2009) followed on the heels of ”DIALOGUES”, featuring nearly 100 high quality works that encouraged us to slow down and contemplate the small things by: 18 local, regional and national artists working in different medias. “For the Small of It” was very well attended, despite the inclement weather and heavy snows that persisted throughout the exhibition, drawing in large numbers of local and long-distance visitors. Sales were good, with 26 pieces of artwork selling, split between local and out of town collectors.

SHY RABBIT 2009 Exhibition Schedule: Upcoming
(March, 2009 - January, 2010)

•“Portraits” (March 14 – April 18, 2009)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, March 14, 5-8:00 p.m.
This invitational portraiture exhibition will feature works in varying media by:
D. Michael Coffee, Colorado, monoprints; Sarah Comerford, Colorado, paintings; Mike Frisk, Arizona, paintings; Karl Isberg, Colorado, paintings; Ivy King, Colorado, mixed media; Shaun Martin, Colorado, paintings; Maureen May, Colorado, mixed media.

•“The Photograph” (May 2 – June 6, 2009)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, May 2, 5-8:00 p.m.
Featuring thoughtfully conceived contemporary photography by emerging and nationally recognized artists.

•“Paper & Clay II” Invitational (June 20 – August 8, 2009)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, June 20, 5-8:00 p.m.
Featuring original hand-pressed monoprints and ceramics by emerging and nationally recognized artists at the invitation of Brad Schwieger (“Clay”), Professor of Art and Ceramics Area Chairman, Ohio University, Ohio, and D. Michael Coffee (“Paper”), professional artist and SHY RABBIT “Printmaking without a Press” instructor.

•“SHY RABBIT Print National” (August 15 – September 26, 2009)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, August 15, 5-8:00 p.m.
This juried exhibition will feature exemplary print selections by local, regional and nationally recognized printmakers.

•“DIALOGUES II” (October 10 – November 7, 2009)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, October 10, 5-8:00 p.m.
This group exhibition will introduce the work of select talented emerging and nationally recognized artists new to SHY RABBIT, based on artist submissions received and reviewed for consideration for exhibition and/or gallery feature throughout the course of the year. Selected works are intended to suggest an exchange of ideas or opinions and to provoke thought and introspection.

•“For the LARGE and the SMALL of It” (November 21, 2009 – January 9, 2010)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, November 21, 5-8:00 p.m.
Featuring works that will encourage us to slow down and contemplate the small things by: a select group of local, regional and national artists working in different medias.

WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT

Entering its second year, WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT has continuously grown in popularity and scale. Nearly 165 students have successfully completed the classes to date. A large percentage of these students have also chosen to continue through intermediate and advanced levels of course offerings and optional studio time.

Offerings have expanded to include beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of:

•Printmaking without a Press
This 2-day printmaking workshop utilizes a unique hand-pressed printing process called "Reductive Ink"™, developed over the course of nearly 20 years by professional artist, D. Michael Coffee.
• Basic Ceramic Techniques and Hand-building
This 2-day workshop focuses on hand forming, texturing, and assembling clay, all without the use of a potter's wheel or other equipment.
•Ceramics from the Potter’s Wheel
This 5-week course establishes good working fundamentals for students who have never used the potter’s wheel or for those who are continuing to build their basic skills.

In consideration of the exemplary work produced during Printmaking without a Press levels I-III, a handful of advanced level printmakers were invited to participate in “DIALOGUES” and “For the SMALL of It” by SHY RABBIT Instructor, D. Michael Coffee, resulting in the sale of several pieces and exposure to a greatly expanded market. Others have gone on to show their work in juried exhibitions and invitationals, and are continuing to advance the "Reductive Ink"™ printmaking process while developing their own creative voice.

SHY RABBIT has also had great success with its professional artist development series, Expose Yourself, which currently includes:

•Photograph Your Work
This high content, 2-day workshop is designed to expose artists to the methods necessary to capture, manipulate, save and send digital images of their work for use in the development of their professional careers.
•The Artist’s Card
This high content, 1-day workshop is designed to expose participants to the basics of graphic layout, design, formatting, and uploading of files for printing by online internet, 4-color printing services, in the creation of a promotional postcard.

WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT are held in one of two spacious 1,000 square-foot mixed media studios, and are led by professional artist and ceramist, D. Michael Coffee. For additional information on D. Michael Coffee, visit www.dmcarts.com

Comments from previous workshop participants:

"It takes a gifted teacher to make every student, no matter what level, feel excited about what they are producing. Michael has a great way of homing right in on the strengths of a piece. Imagine being guaranteed that you will come away from a class being jazzed about skills, vision, or whatever that you did not even know you had. His technique is compelling. Results are quick. It is very creative, all absorbing, play."

“I came home ecstatic both days of the workshop. Michael showed me ways to achieve an extra-special look that I have been striving for in my works on paper. The workshop went way beyond my expectations. Incredible techniques, especially if you have used traditional printmaking methods in the past. What I learned will add an extra dimension to my current artwork. Michael was an extremely knowledgeable, fun instructor. Highly recommended.”

SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet

Launched in June of 2008, SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet is an association of artists who value arts education and advocate for “artists helping artists” in developing viable, sustainable, professional futures. The true strength of this association is in the combined resources of the individual artists participating, allowing for the expansion and promotion of this cooperative support network.

The 14 associates who currently participate in SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet have been instrumental in the development and support of WORK-shops @ SHY RABBIT. Their participation in ArtistsNet has paved the way for their own advancement through the design and distribution of 10,000 postcard mailers introducing ArtistsNet associates and their work to a nationwide audience.

ArtistsNet associates work is also featured on the SHY RABBIT website at: www.shyrabbit.com/ArtistsNet.html, with links to their individual ArtistsNet pages and personal websites.

The combined resources of this cooperative support network, in conjunction with SHY RABBIT, has also allowed for membership in Pagosa Springs, Durango, Farmington, and Santa Fe area Chambers of Commerce, as well as monthly print advertising in a nationally recognized art publication.

To date, this collaborative marketing effort has proven quite successful, generating sales and the commission of artwork by ArtistsNet associates. Samples of their work can be viewed on widely distributed postcard mailers, and on the SHY RABBIT website at: www.shyrabbit.com/ArtistsNet.html.

SHY RABBIT ARTAdvantage Program

SHY RABBIT’s mission is to promote, teach, and nurture the creation of and appreciation for contemporary arts. One of SHY RABBIT’s most heart-felt goals is to enable those who would not have the opportunity or the resources otherwise to participate in high quality ceramic and printmaking workshops hosted by SHY RABBIT.

Another important goal is to help artists, who may not have the resources available to them, to purchase the supplies needed for the creation of their work. In addition, SHY RABBIT would like to afford artists the opportunity to attend one of their long distance opening receptions by paying a portion of their travel expenses. SHY RABBIT believes that interaction with the public is an important part of an artist’s professional development, and that it builds self-confidence and a better understanding of one’s viability in the marketplace. Personal introduction to the public is also of great benefit to potential collectors interested in knowing more about an artist’s work process and philosophies.

In pursuit of these goals, SHY RABBIT has created a scholarship and funding program called the SHY RABBIT ARTAdvantage Program, designed to expand upon the benefits it currently offers in arts education. Funds are being provided by SHY RABBIT in conjunction with a group of generous supporters who also believe that art has the ability to change and improve the quality of our lives.

Implementation of the SHY RABBIT ARTAdvantage Program began in the fall of 2008, resulting in the granting of a number of full and/or partial scholarships for ceramic and printmaking WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT to deserving participants.

If you would like more information about SHY RABBIT ARTAdvantage Program or would like to become a supporter, please contact us by Clicking Here. We also accept direct support contributions to this program via PayPal. Contributions to this program are not tax deductible at this time.

Thanks for your interest and we look forward to your support of SHY RABBIT ARTAdvantage Program.

We need the very best among us as [Artist] members. We’ll never get them to step forward if we keep cheaply making targets of them;

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” — Theodore Roosevelt, Paris, 1910

For more information on these or any of the exhibitions, workshops and/or art programs offered at SHY RABBIT, please visit www.shyrabbit.com and click on the applicable link at the top of the page. Check back often as the website is updated regularly and offerings change.

SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts is located at 333 Bastille Drive, two blocks north of U.S.160, off of North Pagosa Boulevard. SHY RABBIT Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment. If you would like your name added to the SHY RABBIT e- announcement list, please send a request to shyrabbit01@aol.com.

Announcing SHY RABBIT ART Advantage Program

2008-09-25T15:24:00.001-06:00

SHY RABBIT’s mission is to promote, teach, and nurture the creation of and appreciation for contemporary arts. One of SHY RABBIT’s most heart-felt goals is to enable the economically disadvantaged, who would not have the opportunity or the resources otherwise, to participate in high quality ceramic and printmaking workshops hosted by SHY RABBIT.

Another important goal is to help artists, who may not have the resources available to them, to purchase the supplies needed for the creation of their work. In addition, SHY RABBIT would like to afford artists the opportunity to attend one of their long distance opening receptions by paying a portion of their travel expenses. SHY RABBIT believes that interaction with the public is an important part of an artist’s professional development, and that it builds self-confidence and a better understanding of one’s viability in the marketplace. Personal introduction to the public is also of great benefit to potential collectors interested in knowing more about an artist’s work process and philosophies.

In pursuit of these goals, SHY RABBIT has created a scholarship and funding program to expand upon the benefits it currently offers in arts education. Funds are being provided by SHY RABBIT in conjunction with a group of generous supporters who also believe that art has the ability to change and improve the quality of our lives. SHY RABBIT will begin implementation of this program this fall.

“Museums of art will not make a country an art country. But where there is the art spirit there will be precious works to fill museums. Better still, there will be the happiness that is in the making. Art tends towards balance, order, judgment of relative values, the laws of growth, the economy of living - very good things for anyone to be interested in.”
-THE ART SPIRIT: Robert Henri (1865-1929) Notes, Articles, Fragments of Letters and Talks, compiled by Margery Ryerson.
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

Announcing SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet

2008-09-25T14:47:00.013-06:00

Launched in June of 2008, SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet is an association of artists who value arts education and advocate for “artists helping artists” in developing viable, sustainable, professional futures. The true strength of this association is in the combined resources of the individual artists participating, allowing for the expansion and promotion of this cooperative support network.

The 14 associates who currently participate in SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet have been instrumental in the development and support of WORK-shops @ SHY RABBIT. Their participation in ArtistsNet has paved the way for their own advancement through the design and distribution of 5,000 postcard mailers introducing ArtistsNet associates and their work to a nationwide audience. An additional 5,000 cards are planned for distribution this fall.

ArtistsNet associates work is also featured on the SHY RABBIT website at: ArtistsNet with links to their individual ArtistsNet pages and personal websites.

The combined resources of this cooperative support network, in conjunction with SHY RABBIT, has also allowed for membership in Pagosa Springs, Durango, Farmington, and Santa Fe area Chambers of Commerce, as well as monthly print advertising in a nationally recognized art publication.

To date, this collaborative marketing effort has proven quite successful, generating sales and the commission of artwork by ArtistsNet associates. Samples of their work can be viewed on widely distributed postcard mailers, and on the SHY RABBIT website at: ArtistsNet

SHY RABBIT & SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet's October AD in "THE" magzine

2008-09-25T14:08:00.007-06:00

Starting October, 2008 SHY RABBIT in association with SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet will be running 3, 1/4 page ads in "THE" magazine in Santa FE, NM.
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

Recent Ceramics Monthly AD

2008-09-25T14:04:00.002-06:00

Image of SHY RABBIT's recent full page ad in Ceramics Monthy Magazine, a national ceramics publication.
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

"Note from SHY RABBIT" 09.25.08

2008-09-25T13:19:00.003-06:00

SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts is pleased to introduce “Notes from SHY RABBIT”, a comprehensive listing of art exhibitions, workshops and programs.

Notes from SHY RABBIT will be updated quarterly and will include:

• At a Glance
• Exhibition Schedule (2008 – 2009)
• WORK-Shops
• ArtistsNet
• ART Advantage Program

At a Glance: SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

Known as Southern Colorado’s premier contemporary art destination, SHY RABBIT is now in its fifth year of operation in Pagosa Springs. The 4,000 square foot arts facility is located ‘off the beaten path’ in a wooded commercial district on the west end of town. SHY RABBIT houses a fine art gallery and ceramic studio, two mixed-media workshops, a well-lit exhibition space, and a print studio gallery.

SHY RABBIT is currently offering educational workshops in ceramics, printmaking, and artist professional development year round, and is gaining national recognition for the high caliber of its gallery offerings and rotating exhibitions.

SHY RABBIT is widely acknowledged for its continuing contribution to the advancement of contemporary art and art education in the Four Corners region. Operating as a social mission-based enterprise, SHY RABBIT is interested in strengthening our creative economy and improving the quality of life in our community.

SHY RABBIT Exhibition Schedule:
(May 2008 – Aug. 2009)

The “Paper & Clay” Invitational (May 17 – July 6, 2008) was a huge success, introducing the work of 18 talented ceramists and printmakers to a new audience. The show brought in a steady flow of familiar faces mixed in with a great many new ones, totaling over 500 visitors throughout the duration of the show. Their numbers included several out of state visitors who traveled to Pagosa Springs specifically to see “Paper & Clay” and to learn more about the many facets of SHY RABBIT.

Following on the heels of a busy summer gallery season, the SHY RABBIT 2008 exhibition schedule continues with:

• “DIALOGUES” (Oct. 4 – Nov. 15, 2008)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, Oct. 4, 5-8:00 p.m.
Featuring works that suggest an exchange of ideas and opinions by: Carrianne Hendrickson, New York, ceramics; Marcie Paper, New York, paintings; Jeff Pender, North Carolina, ceramics; and Christopher St. John, New Mexico, paintings. Also showing a collaborative “DIALOGUES” project by Debra Blair, New Mexico, and Marti Bledsoe, Colorado, in the SHY RABBIT print studio gallery.

• “For the Small of It” (Nov. 22, 2008 – Jan. 17, 2009)
-Opening Reception: Saturday, Nov. 22, 5-8:00 p.m.
Featuring works that will encourage us to slow down and contemplate the small things by: 18 local, regional and national artists working in different medias.

SHY RABBIT’s 2009 exhibition schedule follows in part:

• “The Portrait” (March 14 – April 18, 2009)
This invitational portraiture exhibition will feature works in varying media by local, regional and nationally recognized artists.
• “Paper & Clay II” Invitational (May 2 – June 13, 2009)
Featuring original hand-pressed monoprints and ceramics by emerging and nationally recognized artists.
• “National Juried Print Exhibition” (June 27 – Aug. 22, 2009)
Featuring exemplary print selections by local, regional and nationally recognized printmakers.

WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT

Celebrating the completion of its first year, WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT has continuously grown in popularity. Nearly 130 students have successfully completed the classes to date. A large percentage of these students have also chosen to continue through intermediate and advanced levels of course offerings.

Offerings have expanded to include beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of:

• Printmaking without a Press
This 2-day printmaking workshop utilizes a unique hand-pressed printing process called "Reductive Ink"™, developed over the course of nearly 20 years by professional artist, D. Michael Coffee.
• Basic Ceramic Techniques and Hand-building:
This 2-day workshop focuses on hand forming, texturing, and assembling clay, all without the use of a potter's wheel or other equipment.
• Ceramics from the Potter’s Wheel
This 5-week course establishes good working fundamentals for students who have never used the potter’s wheel or for those who are continuing to build their basic skills.

In consideration of the exemplary work produced during Printmaking without a Press levels I-III, a select group of advanced level printmakers were invited to participate in “Paper & Clay” by SHY RABBIT Instructor, D. Michael Coffee. This resulted in the sale of six prints and exposure to a greatly expanded market. Others have gone on to show their work in juried exhibitions and invitationals, and are continuing to advance the "Reductive Ink"™ printmaking process while developing their own creative voice.

SHY RABBIT has also had great success with its professional artist development series, Expose Yourself, which currently includes:

• Photograph Your Work
This high content, 2-day workshop is designed to expose artists to the methods necessary to capture, manipulate, save and send digital images of their work for use in the development of their professional careers.
• The Artist’s Card
This high content, 1-day workshop is designed to expose participants to the basics of graphic layout, design, formatting, and uploading of files for printing by online internet, 4-color printing services, in the creation of a promotional postcard.

WORK-Shops @ SHY RABBIT are held in one of two spacious 1,000 square-foot mixed media studios, and are led by professional artist and ceramist, D. Michael Coffee. For additional information on D. Michael Coffee, visit www.dmcarts.com

Comments from previous workshop participants:

"It takes a gifted teacher to make every student, no matter what level, feel excited about what they are producing. Michael has a great way of homing right in on the strengths of a piece. Imagine being guaranteed that you will come away from a class being jazzed about skills, vision, or whatever that you did not even know you had. His technique is compelling. Results are quick. It is very creative, all absorbing, play."

“I came home ecstatic both days of the workshop. Michael showed me ways to achieve an extra-special look that I have been striving for in my works on paper. The workshop went way beyond my expectations. Incredible techniques, especially if you have used traditional printmaking methods in the past. What I learned will add an extra dimension to my current artwork. Michael was an extremely knowledgeable, fun instructor. Highly recommended.”

SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet

Launched in June of 2008, SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet is an association of artists who value arts education and advocate for “artists helping artists” in developing viable, sustainable, professional futures. The true strength of this association is in the combined resources of the individual artists participating, allowing for the expansion and promotion of this cooperative support network.

The 14 associates who currently participate in SHY RABBIT ArtistsNet have been instrumental in the development and support of WORK-shops @ SHY RABBIT. Their participation in ArtistsNet has paved the way for their own advancement through the design and distribution of 5,000 postcard mailers introducing ArtistsNet associates and their work to a nationwide audience. An additional 5,000 cards are planned for distribution this fall.

ArtistsNet associates work is also featured on the SHY RABBIT website at: www.shyrabbit.com/ArtistsNet.html, with links to their individual ArtistsNet pages and personal websites.

The combined resources of this cooperative support network, in conjunction with SHY RABBIT, has also allowed for membership in Pagosa Springs, Durango, Farmington, and Santa Fe area Chambers of Commerce, as well as monthly print advertising in a nationally recognized art publication.

To date, this collaborative marketing effort has proven quite successful, generating sales and the commission of artwork by ArtistsNet associates. Samples of their work can be viewed on widely distributed postcard mailers, and on the SHY RABBIT website at: www.shyrabbit.com/ArtistsNet.html.

SHY RABBIT ART Advantage Program

SHY RABBIT’s mission is to promote, teach, and nurture the creation of and appreciation for contemporary arts. One of SHY RABBIT’s most heart-felt goals is to enable the economically disadvantaged, who would not have the opportunity or the resources otherwise, to participate in high quality ceramic and printmaking workshops hosted by SHY RABBIT.

Another important goal is to help artists, who may not have the resources available to them, to purchase the supplies needed for the creation of their work. In addition, SHY RABBIT would like to afford artists the opportunity to attend one of their long distance opening receptions by paying a portion of their travel expenses. SHY RABBIT believes that interaction with the public is an important part of an artist’s professional development, and that it builds self-confidence and a better understanding of one’s viability in the marketplace. Personal introduction to the public is also of great benefit to potential collectors interested in knowing more about an artist’s work process and philosophies.

In pursuit of these goals, SHY RABBIT has created a scholarship and funding program to expand upon the benefits it currently offers in arts education. Funds are being provided by SHY RABBIT in conjunction with a group of generous supporters who also believe that art has the ability to change and improve the quality of our lives. SHY RABBIT will begin implementation of this program this fall.

“Museums of art will not make a country an art country. But where there is the art spirit there will be precious works to fill museums. Better still, there will be the happiness that is in the making. Art tends towards balance, order, judgment of relative values, the laws of growth, the economy of living - very good things for anyone to be interested in.”
-THE ART SPIRIT: Robert Henri (1865-1929) Notes, Articles, Fragments of Letters and Talks, compiled by Margery Ryerson.

For more information on any of the exhibitions, workshops and/or art programs offered at SHY RABBIT, please visit www.shyrabbit.com and click on the applicable link at the top of the page. Check back often as the website is updated regularly and offerings change.

SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts is located at 333 Bastille Drive, two blocks north of U.S.160, off of North Pagosa Boulevard. SHY RABBIT Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment. If you would like your name added to the SHY RABBIT e- announcement list, please send a request to shyrabbit01@aol.com.
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

New SHY RABBIT Website

2007-10-23T19:52:00.000-06:00

Please follow the link below to the new
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts Website
for updated information.

SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts Website

Thank You

"Printmaking without a Press I"

2007-09-07T08:57:00.000-06:00

“Printmaking without a press” is a high content, process driven fine art printmaking workshop utilizing the “low impact” printing process developed by professional Artist, D. Michael Coffee called “Reductive Ink”™. Participants will be exposed to Coffee’s proprietary techniques through hands on involvement with the tools and materials of the process.

This introductory 8 hour workshop will focus on the use of black ink only to allow for the exploration of the infinite possibilities of line, tone and texture inherent in this unique process.

Participants can expect to develop their own personal imagery in tandem with the demonstrated techniques that will result in finished works of Art or this workshop can be approached as strictly a concentrated exposure to techniques that can be developed at a later date. Information (in this workshop) will be presented in a manner that will kick start the novice as well inspire the professional Artist to view their own work in a new way.

Printmaker D. Michael Coffee began developing his “Reductive Ink”™ printing process in 1987 in Los Angeles, CA. Coffee began his investigation as a result of a fortuitous miscommunication with a group of workman that resulted in the mistaken delivery of a 500 pound piece of a plexiglass bullet proof window from a Bank under demolition. With a vision to create a “low impact” printing technique to satisfy his desire to develop a means of creating images that were spontaneous and involved a bit of “out of controlness” he began working directly on the surface of the window. He was quick to realize that the process that he was developing was unique in the vocabulary of traditional fine Art printmaking. Coffee’s development of “Reductive Ink”™ printing allowed for the creation of line, tone and textures that rival the quality of those created with traditional methods with the added advantage of the “uniqueness” of each and every image.

Coffee’s work has been shown in over 70 group and solo print exhibitions, and is included in nearly 200 prestigious private and public collections throughout the world.

The techniques and process that resulted from Coffee’s methodical trial and error for the past 20 years are the basis for the knowledge to be presented in “Printmaking without a Press”.

DATE and TIME:
Saturday, October 6 & 7, 2007
10:00am-4:00pm
(includes one hour lunch break)

or

Saturday, October 13 & 14, 2007
10:00am-4:00pm
(includes one hour lunch break)

PLACE:
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts
333 Bastille Drive
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
970-731-2766
shyrabbit01@aol.com

FEE:
$215
Fee includes use of all required studio equipment, tools, inks, plates and other misc.consummable materials. Each participant will also be provided with up to 8 sheets of 11” x 15” – 90# “Arches” Hot Press, 100% rag fine arts paper. Additional paper will be available for purchase.

CLASS SIZE and CANCELLATION POLICY:
Workshops will be limited to a maximum of 6 participants with a minimum of 4 required for workshops to proceed as scheduled. SHY RABBIT Reserves the Right to cancel workshops with less than 4 registered participants up to 5 days before the scheduled workshop date. Registered participants will receive a full refund for cancelled workshops or may choose to apply fee toward future workshops.

If you have a group of 4 or more and wish to schedule a private workshop, please contact
Denise Coffee at: 970-731-2766 or shyrabbit01@aol.com

REGISTRATION and METHOD OF PAYMENT
Fee is payable at time of registration and is nonrefundable for any event other than cancellation of workshop by SHY RABBIT.

Due to time constraints and limited workshop size, the preferred method of payment is via credit-card (Visa or M/C).

To Register please contact Denise Coffee at:

Phone: 970-731-2766
Email: shyrabbit01@aol.com

MISC:
Participants should expect to wear comfortable clothing and footware appropriate to a working studio environment utilizing oil based non-toxic inks and mineral spirit solvents.

Participants need to be 18 years of age to register.

"Handbuilding Ceramics I"

2007-09-07T08:50:00.000-06:00

“Handbuilding Ceramics I” is a unique interactive 2-day workshop, designed to demystify and simplify traditional clay hand-forming techniques and processes. Utilizing a minimal amount of tools, Ceramist D. Michael Coffee will introduce primary techniques through a series of demonstrations, after which participants will begin working with clay by handbuilding on their own. This workshop is open to all skill levels, with no previous ceramic experience required.

This introductory workshop will focus on various techniques including forming, texturing and assembling, all without the use of a potter’s wheel or other equipment. This workshop will establish good working fundamentals and principles, and will provide a foundation for continuing work in ceramics. Surface decoration and glazing will also be addressed.

The work will be bisque-fired by Coffee following the 2-day workshop. Participants will return for a separate 3-hour evening session to glaze their work. (Refer to: DATES and TIMES) The finished work will then be glaze-fired, and may be available for pick up during designated SHY RABBIT gallery hours.

D. Michael Coffee has been a professional Ceramist for 13 years. His experience includes teaching college and private master courses; extensive studio work; kiln design & construction; firing expertise; and overseas ceramic study.

Coffee’s functional and sculptural ceramics have been shown in numerous group and solo exhibitions, and are included in hundreds of prestigious public and private collections throughout the world.

DATE and TIME:
Saturday, October 20 & 21, 2007
10:00am - 4:00pm
(includes one hour lunch break)

Glazing Session
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
6:00pm - 9:00pm

or

Saturday, October 27 & 28, 2007
10:00am - 4:00pm
(includes one hour lunch break)

Glazing Session
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
6:00pm - 9:00pm

PLACE:
SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts
333 Bastille Drive
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
970-731-2766
shyrabbit01@aol.com

FEE:
$195
Fee includes use of all required studio equipment, studio tools, misc. consummable material (including clay sufficient for workshop projects), Studio glazes, Bisque and High firing. Each participant will also be provided with a basic starter tool kit to keep.

CLASS SIZE and CANCELLATION POLICY:
Workshops will be limited to a maximum of 8 participants with a minimum of 4 required for workshops to proceed as scheduled. SHY RABBIT Reserves the Right to cancel workshops with less than 4 registered participants up to 5 days before the scheduled workshop date. Registered participants will receive a full refund for cancelled workshops or may choose to apply fee toward future workshops.

If you have a group of 4 or more and wish to schedule a private workshop, please contact
Denise Coffee at: 970-731-2766 or shyrabbit01@aol.com

REGISTRATION and METHOD OF PAYMENT
Fee is payable at time of registration and is nonrefundable for any event other than cancellation of workshop by SHY RABBIT.

Due to time constraints and limited workshop size, the preferred method of payment is via credit-card (Visa or M/C).

To Register please contact Denise Coffee at:

Phone: 970-731-2766
Email: shyrabbit01@aol.com

MISC:
Participants should expect to wear comfortable clothing and footware appropriate to a working ceramics studio environment utilizing clay and glazes.

Minumim age for registration is 18.

"ENIGMA: Puzzling, Ambiguous, Inexplicable" Opens September 29, 2007 at SHY RABBIT Contemporary Arts

2007-08-30T11:10:00.001-06:00

"Suddenly this Summer" A Group Exhibit

2007-07-22T10:01:00.000-06:00

New SHY RABBIT Postcard

2007-07-01T14:09:00.000-06:00

Web Site... Coming Soon

2007-04-24T08:09:00.000-06:00

NEW WORKS Preview Images

2007-04-13T17:29:00.000-06:00

NEW WORKS @ SHY RABBIT

2007-03-22T09:02:00.001-06:00

Exhibition Dates:
April 14, 2007 thru June 23, 2007

Gallery Hours:
Thursday thru Sunday
10am to 4pm or by appointment

Artists' Reception-Saturday, April 14, 2007 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm.

The not-so-shy SHY RABBIT

2007-02-08T07:59:00.000-07:00

Durango Telegraph
Published 01-11-07
Arting Around
by Jules Masterjohn

The creative process is alive and kicking at Shy Rabbit in Pagosa Springs. This vitality is evident in the gallery’s current exhibit, “Hold It!” featuring the work of Chad Haspels, Sarah Hewitt Clarissa Hudson, Mary Ellen Long, Chris Ritchter, and Shan Wells. The forms and materials chosen by each artist to represent the show’s theme of contemporary containers vary widely and give pause to the wonderfully enigmatic nature of the individual creative process. The works contained within the Shy Rabbit’s two galleries remind us of elemental concepts and processes. The works invite contemplation.

In conceiving the exhibit, Denise Coffee, co-owner of Shy Rabbit, stated, “Our intention behind titling the show ‘Hold It!’ was to request that viewers stop and take their time in carefully considering the works on display.” There is also a suggestion that the containers might hold ideas and thoughts. More than a request, the title is a command – and it is an appropriate one, not only for visitors to the exhibit but for Denise and her husband, Michael, as well.

For more than three years, in much the same way that an artist works from inspiration and vision to implementation, the Coffees have been invoking the creative process in their development of the Shy Rabbit. Their original 2,000 square feet of rented warehouse space was recently expanded to 4,000 square feet. Half the new area will be used for teaching ceramic workshops and the other 1,000 square feet is dedicated gallery space for their popular exhibitions. Along with the doubling of space has come a redoubling of the Coffee’s consideration of what they want to offer through their efforts at Shy Rabbit.

After nearly a year of the Shy Rabbit functioning solely as Michael’s ceramic studio, the Coffees officially opened the timid bunny’s doors in the spring of 2004. It was conceived as a contemporary art advocacy venue by initiating the Artist Roundtables, based on the European salon model whereby members of the arts community speak and lead discussions. Shy Rabbit also started offering workshops in specific art techniques and the business of art. And, most notably, the Coffees and their Creative Development Team of Pagosa residents Leanne Goebel, Al Olson and Shaun Martin, have presented some of the most provocative exhibitions of contemporary art in the area.

As with all things dynamic and alive, change comes. Though well attended, no roundtables or workshops are currently slated on this year’s Shy Rabbit schedule. Instead, the Coffees are expanding their physical space and pulling in their vision. They have succeeded in establishing the gallery as a premier contemporary art venue known not only for its support of emerging regional artists but also established, nationally known artists. They are inspired to make the Shy Rabbit a destination for art collectors by continuing to cultivate relationships with artists of the highest caliber.

Quality and professionalism have continually been the cornerstones of the Coffee’s efforts. Over the last few years, the essence of the Shy Rabbit has not changed, though its form continues to evolve. Three years and more than a dozen exhibitions later, the Coffees are turning inward. Their desire to share the Shy Rabbit space has been deeply rooted in their sense of community. Denise offered, “We have created the kind of artistic environment that inspires us. For our souls and creative spirits, we need to live surrounded by likeminded people.”

The Coffees have spent their lives associated with creative people and pursuing artistic expression. In West Los Angeles, where they lived and built art-related businesses before retiring to Pagosa in 2003, Michael lived a dual life as an architect and a professional artist. With her degree in fashion design, Denise built a dancewear company. Wildly successful, the business grew too fast, consuming Denise, and after nine years, she closed the company. Once revitalized, she began marketing Michael’s printmaking and ceramic work. Denise finds great satisfaction in promoting artists’ work that she believes in. “It is really necessary for the whole art-making structure,” she offered.

The Coffees wasted no time getting fully centered in their artistic lives in Colorado. D. Michael (his professional name) had a solo show of his ceramic work, “Place of Mind” at the Lakewood Cultural Center, near Denver, in August of 2004. His work filled the center’s 1,000-square-foot gallery, and in 2005, it was honored with a “Best of Denver” award from Westword Magazine.

Now, after a year of not making any new pieces due to the demands of directing the Shy Rabbit, Michael has began creating again. The Coffees are planning to present a show of Michael’s functional work – handbuilt platters and Asian-inspired tea bowls – in the near future. Denise emphasizes, “We are not being date driven anymore. We are scaling back from so many planned public exhibitions and will use the space more as a showroom for Michael’s work and for teaching workshops.”

It seems unlikely that these vital individuals will be able to hold back from their community offerings for very long. They have thrived on bringing people together around the arts. The Coffee’s latest interest involves exposing young people to contemporary art by hosting tours of their exhibits. The current show, “Hold It!,” presents work that is minimal, emotional, sensual and intellectual – unlike the usual visual faire displayed in the area – which should give the Pagosa Springs high school students quite a bit to contemplate. •

HOLD IT! @ SHY RABBIT

2006-12-18T07:03:00.000-07:00

HOLD IT!...Shan Wells

2006-12-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

“Hold It!” opens to large crowd @ Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts

By Denise Coffee

“Hold It!”, an exhibition of contemporary containers, opened at Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts on Saturday night, Dec. 9, to a large and energetic crowd. This elegant exhibition features seven emerging and mid-career artists working in varying and somewhat unconventional mediums. The exhibition runs through Jan. 20, 2007.

Gallery hours are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 1-4 p.m. Shy Rabbit also welcomes visitors during non-posted hours. Please call (970) 731-2766 to confirm the gallery is open.

“Hold It!” artists were asked to stretch the concept of a typical container or vessel. This exhibition entertains the viewer’s imagination with a wide range of materials and forms.

Several of the artists invited to participate in “Hold it!” had existing works that fit the show theme. Others created new work inspired by the show title and the freedom they were allowed in the process.

Artists were provided with approx. 3-4 months in which to complete new work, and had no restrictions other than a size range and the number of finished works required. The process was a very organic one that resulted in the creation of work that is natural and unforced.

The seven featured artists are: Chad Haspels, Colo, wood; Sarah Hewitt, NM, fiber; Clarissa Hudson, Colo, fiber; Terry Inokuma, OR, ceramics; Mary Ellen Long, Colo, mixed media; Chris Richter, NM, ceramics; and Shan Wells, Colo, mixed media.

Shan Wells is a North American Sculptor and political illustrator. Born in Cortez, Colo, he attended Art Center College of Design, and the University of Canterbury in New Zealand.

Wells received a grant from the Pollock-Krasner Foundation in 1999, and two successive Colorado Council on the Arts Fellowships for drawing and sculpture, respectively, one of two recipients of the awards to do so in the 35 year history of the program. He was recently selected as one of Colorado's best 75 artists for the exhibition, “Best of Colorado”, at the Denver International Airport.

Wells illustrates a political cartoon for the Durango Telegraph, an independent weekly newspaper. His illustrations have also appeared in Truthout.org, Westword, Las Vegas City Life, and the Los Angeles Reader.

Wells has three pieces on display in “Hold It!”, two that were existing works, and one that he created specifically for the show.

“A Portable Container for Shadows” is made up of Ponderosa pine, found metal, leather, steel, and recycled mahogany. This piece greets the viewer as he/she enters the smaller of the two Shy Rabbit gallery spaces, and sets the tone for the entire show.

“A metaphor for introspection, this piece flows directly from the work of Edmund Husserl, who originated the idea of Phenomenology,” Wells states. “The idea of never being able to fully perceive anything was of interest- for example, the inside of a tree limb. We perceive it only one side at a time, and the interior is never fully observable. Containers have a great metaphoric value for this reason- they are potentialities, exposures that become more beautiful to us as they become more transparent and complex, mirroring our own perceived souls.”

Wells creates works that are visually pleasing while provocative in nature, and that also inspire a great deal of thought if fully absorbed.

“A Portable Container for Shadows” reverses this to create an object that simultaneously reveals its core and conceals it— thus illustrating the working contradiction inherent in introspection that I think we all strive to overcome as we peer into our own dark recesses, searching for meaning in our behavior, adding another arrow to the quiver of our self-definition,” Wells continues.

Wells second contribution is entitled “ArcHive.” It is skillfully constructed of recycled Douglas fir, wax, ink, and leather.

“Bees use a complex dance to communicate with one another”, Wells explains. “Called waggle-dance, this behavior results in an incredibly plastic language ability, capable of communicating very specific information about food location, quality, timing, and other things, as well as enabling arguments over competing resources.”

“ArcHive is a metaphor for the library of knowledge the dance represents, the compilation of bee knowing”, Wells summarizes.

Wells’ third is entitled “Spectral.” It is constructed of wood, wax, leaves, light, and components.

“This work speaks to the common scientific process of dissecting nature in order to understand it. It can be done, but the subject tends to die in the process”, Wells continues.

“The work also references core sampling, and specifically, spectral analysis of celestial bodies- hence the line of color. All of this comes together in the title “Spectral”, Wells states.

Wells lives with his family in Durango, Colo.

Please visit http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com for more information on Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts shows, events, and programs.

Shy Rabbit is located at 333 Bastille Drive, B-1 through B-4, one block north of Hwy 160 off of North Pagosa Blvd. For additional information on Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts, please email shyrabbit01@aol.com.

HOLD IT...Chad Haspels

2006-12-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

“Hold It!” Opens at Shy Rabbit
Dec. 9 with Artists’ Reception

By Denise Coffee

“Hold It!”, an exhibition of contemporary containers, opens at Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts with an artists’ reception on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The exhibition features seven artists working in different mediums from throughout the country, and runs through Jan. 20, 2007.

Gallery hours are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 1-4 p.m. Shy Rabbit also welcomes visitors during non-posted hours. Please call (970) 731-2766 to confirm the gallery is open.

“Hold It!” stretches the generally held perception of what a container might be considered, and entertains the viewer’s imagination with a wide range of materials and forms.

Several of the artists invited to participate in “Hold it!” had existing works that fit the show theme. Others created new work inspired by the show title and the freedom they were allowed in the process.

The seven featured artists are: Chad Haspels, Colo, wood; Sarah Hewitt, NM, fiber; Clarissa Hudson, Colo, fiber; Terry Inokuma, OR, ceramics; Mary Ellen Long, Colo, mixed media; Chris Richter, NM, ceramics; and Shan Wells, Colo, mixed media.

In 1998, while working towards his Fine Arts Degree from Rocky Mountain College in Billings, MT, Chad Haspels developed his initial interest in sculpting while experimenting with wood, stone, bronze, and clay. He apprenticed under Master Carver James Acheampong in 1999.

After completing his education in 2000, Haspels returned to the southwestern Colorado area where he grew up. He has been sculpting with wood full time since 2002, and quickly developed a name for his work by executing publicly commissioned works for the towns of Pagosa Springs and Bayfield, and the community of Vallecito Lake, Colo, among others.

Haspels created two new contemporary pieces for “Hold It!” after being invited into the exhibition in late August. His streamlined sculptures might not be recognized by those familiar with his signature public works due to their vastly differing styles, but are sure to be warmly welcomed as a new glimpse into the Wood Sculptors ever-changing persona.
“Over the last six years, I have focused my artistic development to using wood as my primary medium for multiple reasons”, quotes Haspels. “My technique involves taking advantage of spontaneous movements and decisions to capture an initial energy with the form of the sculpture.” Haspels continues, “Then, depending on the direction I want to go, I may focus on detail and precision on top of this, or I may leave the energy driven process to show through in the finished piece by way of having tool textures remain.”

Haspels’ largest sculpture has been a work in process for nearly three years, and is an example of the sculptor’s patience and ability to let the energy driven process show through in his work. “Reclaiming Vessel” is skillfully carved out of Douglas fir, measures 45” tall by 24” wide, and is presented on a black steel base.

“I worked around the rot that this particular piece of wood had to create the void areas, and to open up the solid walls of the vessel shape”, states Haspels. “This, to me, creates a “container of space”, hopefully drawing the eye into the inner space.”

The second sculpture is a beautifully calming composition entitled “Duo”. It is carved out of Ponderosa pine and stands 24” tall by 25” in diameter. Made up of two pieces, each is hollowed out and placed back to back with a one inch gap between the two. It is also presented on a black steel base.

Please visit http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com for more information on Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts shows, events, and programs.

Shy Rabbit is located at 333 Bastille Drive, B-1 through B-4, one block north of Hwy 160 off of North Pagosa Blvd. For additional information on Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts, please email shyrabbit01@aol.com.

HOLD IT!.....An Exhibition of Contemporary Containers

2006-11-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

Artists' Reception-Saturday, December 9, from 5:00pm - 8:00pm.

Shy Rabbit is proud to announce "Hold It!", an exhibition of contemporary containers. Exhibition dates are December 9, 2006 through January 20, 2007. Artists' Reception is Saturday, December 9, from 5:00pm - 8:00pm. Featured artists are: Chad Haspels, wood; Sarah Hewitt, fiber; Clarissa Hudson, fiber; Terry Inokuma, ceramics; Mary Ellen Long, mixed media; Chris Richter, ceramics; and Shan Wells, mixed media.

"Forms, Figures, Symbols" opens Saturday at Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts featuring 59 works of contemporary art by 43 artists from around the country

2006-10-16T09:57:00.000-06:00

Ronald Gonzalez, N.Y.--"Pin Cushion Man," Marcia Lenke, Mass.--"Untitled 63," Amy Wendland, Colo.--"Kelp."

Pagosa Springs, Colo.—Juror Gerry Riggs, former Director of the Gallery of Contemporary Art at CU Colorado Springs, selected 59 works of art by 43 different artists for the upcoming "Forms, Figures, Symbols," a Juried Exhibition of Contemporary Works, Oct. 21 - Nov. 28, 2006 at Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts. Opening reception with the artists is Sat., Oct. 21, from 5-8 p.m.

“I was delighted that there were so many submissions to choose from,” Riggs said. “I thought the intake would be mostly from regional artists, but as it happens, there were entries from all over the country. This means that the show has a national scope, which is more than I had hoped for.”

A total of 182 submissions were received from 61 artists working in various mediums throughout the country. Artist’s selected for “Forms, Figures, Symbols” include: Maude Andrade, N.M.; Kelly Angard, Colo.; Sandy Applegate, Colo.; W. Howard Brandenburg, N.M.; Sandra Butler, Colo.; Tirzah Camacho, Colo.; Lou Chapman, Texas; Sarah Comerford, Colo.; Deborah DeGraffenreid, N.Y.; Leah Dunaway, Texas; Lal B. Echterhoff, Colo.; Aaron Englert, Colo.; Ted Fish, Colo.; Ronald Gonzalez, N.Y.; Jean Gumpper, Colo.; C.J. Hannah, Colo.; Crystal Hartman, Colo.; Barbara Heinrich, Colo.; Diana Jacobs, Calif.; Gail Lois Jaffe, Florida.; Bradley Kachnowicz, Colo.; Rebecca Koeppen, Colo.; Shama Ko, Texas.; Marcie Lenke, Mass.; Patrick Linehan, Illinois; Don R. Long, Colo.; Mary Ellen Long, Colo.; Lara Loutrel, Mass.; Raymond Martinez, Colo; Marie McCallum, Colo.; Sid McCammond, Colo.; Daisy McConnell, Colo.; Lynne Medsker, Indiana; Paul F. Morris, Colo.; Maryellen Morrow, Colo.; Al Olson, Colo.; Linda Pampinella, Colo.; Joan Levine-Russell, Colo.; William Secrest, Colo.; Harold D. Seibel, Colo.; Marcy Sperry, Illinois; Don Weir, Colo.; Amy K. Wendland, Colo.

“I ended up selecting about a third of the submissions,” Riggs added. “There is a limit as to what can be reasonably exhibited on Shy Rabbit's walls and I'm certain I pushed the number of selections right up to that limit. I recommended that particular related works be hung stacked in order to accommodate more work than is usually shown.”

The work selected is diverse in medium.

Riggs seemed surprised that “there was not an abundance of three dimensional submissions, but I was particularly pleased with the 3-D selections as they were generally quite contemporary in treatment and varied in their themes, choice of materials and execution.”

Yet for a show entitled, “Forms, Figures, Symbols,” there were not as many figurative submissions as Riggs expected. Many of the figurative submissions didn’t make it into the show, he said. “Not because they weren't well executed, but because they were simply very traditional or academic in treatment. This is a contemporary show and that translates into original, unique or fresh approaches to the subject.”

Riggs is pleased with the work and his selections.

“Overall, I think the show is comparable to many good contemporary exhibitions I have seen or curated in the past, and will prove to be a worthwhile, varied and interesting exhibition for viewers,” he said, then added: “I'm sure it will also give some viewers something to consider, apart from the usual. I am grateful to Shy Rabbit for allowing me to select the show, as I'm sure they knew that my artistic leanings are far from timid or conventional.”

Riggs spent 14-1/2 years at CU Colorado Springs as the Gallery Director and an assistant professor. Prior to that, he was a curator of fine art and an exhibition coordinator at the Colorado Springs Fine Art Center. Earlier in his career he served as the Curator for the C.B. Goddard Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Ardmore, Okla.

Riggs' professional accomplishments include the installation design for over 400 exhibitions. He is credited for transforming the gallery at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs into one of the region's most important art spaces, and the only one dedicated to contemporary art, whether regional of from halfway around the world. He is a member of the American Association of Museums, and the AAM Museum Advocacy Team. Riggs became a full-time resident of Pagosa Springs in 2006. He is an accomplished photographer, session drummer and avid skier.

Shy Rabbit is located at 333 Bastille Drive, Units B-1, B-4, west of downtown, and just south of the Pagosa Lakes area. Take Hwy 160 to North Pagosa Blvd., stay on North Pagosa to Bastille Drive (at UBC) turn left and stay on Bastille past Hopi. Shy Rabbit is located directly next to Pine Valley Rental. (GPS coordinates are latitude N37 degrees, 15.193 minutes and longitude W107, 5.074 minutes).

Gallery hours during exhibitions are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 1-4 p.m., and 1-6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month. Visitors are welcome to call or stop by during non-posted hours. Private appointments are also available by request.

For more information please call (970) 731-2766, email shyrabbit01@aol.com, or log onto http://www.shyrabbit.blogspot.com.

"Let's Explore" Series

2006-09-18T14:28:00.000-06:00

The “Let’s Explore” program brings in guest speakers, slide presentations, films and experts to discuss the many facets of contemporary art and art history. "Let's Explore" is currently scheduled on the second Thursday of each month. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the programs run from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

December 14, 2006--"Let's Explore: Art:21 (Spirituality, Consumption)," a viewing of the two themes from the first season of the PBS Series Art:21 (Art in the Twenty-first Century). The theme "Spirituality" is explored through the art of Beryl Korot, Ann Hamilton, John Feodorov, Shahzia Sikander, and James Turrell. The theme "Consumption" is explored through the art of Barbara Kruger, Michael Ray Charles, Matthew Barney, Andrea Zittel and Mel Chin.

November 9, 2006--"Let's Explore: Contemporary Art with Gerry Riggs." A lecture and slide presentation with Riggs, the juror for “Forms, Figures, Symbols,” who has curated more than 400 exhibitions during his museum and gallery career.

October 12, 2006--"Let's Explore: Art:21 (Place, Identity)," a viewing of two themes from the first season of the PBS Series Art:21 (Art in the Twenty-first Century). The theme "Place" is explored through the art of Laurie Anderson, Richard Serra, Sally Mann, Margaret Kilgallen, Berry McGee, and Pepon Osorio. The theme "Identity" is explored through the art of William Wegman, Bruce Nauman, Kerry James Marshall, Louise Bourgeois and Maya Lin.

September 14, 2006--"Let's Explore: Isamu Noguchie," a viewing of the documentary film about Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988), Stones and Paper directed by Niro Narita.

August 10, 2006--"Let's Explore: Andy Goldsworthy,"a viewing of the award-winning documentaryRivers and Tides by filmmaker Thomas Riedelsheimer

A suggested donation of $5-$10 is recommended.

Shy Rabbit is located at 333 Bastille Drive, Units B-1, B-4, west of downtown, and just south of the Pagosa Lakes area. Take Hwy 160 to North Pagosa Blvd., stay on N. Pagosa to Bastille Drive (at UBC), turn left and stay on Bastille past Hopi Shy Rabbit is located directly next to Pine Valley Rental. (GPS coordinates are latitude N37 degrees, 15.193 minutes and longitude W107, 5.074 minutes).

For more information: log onto http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com or call (970) 731-2766.

Forms, Figures, Symbols Prospectus

2006-08-07T06:37:00.001-06:00

A JURIED EXHIBITION OF CONTEMPORARY WORKS
@ SHY RABBIT
October 21-November 28, 2006

DOWNLOAD "Forms, Figures, Symbols" ENTRY FORM HERE

ELIGIBILITY
Open to all artists over the age of 18 working in all mediums except for video and film. All works must be framed or finished, exhibit top level presentation, and must have been completed in the last three years. Weight limit for wall-mounted works may not exceed 25 lbs.

JUROR
Gerry Riggs served as Director/Curator of the Gallery of Contemporary Art and Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs for 14 1/2 years. Riggs also served as the Curator of Fine Art/Exhibition Coordinator at the Colorado Springs Fine Art Center and Director/Curator for the C.B. Goddard Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Ardmore, OK. Riggs holds a Masters of Liberal Studies with Museum Emphasis degree and a Bachelor of Fine Arts In Art degree from the University of Oklahoma. He is a member of the American Association of Museums and the AAM Museum Advocacy Team.

Riggs' professional accomplishments include the installation design for over 400 exhibitions. He is credited for transforming the gallery at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs into one of the region's most important contemporary art spaces. Riggs is also an accomplished photographer, session drummer, and avid skier. He continues to work as an independent Curator/Consultant.

JUROR’S JUDGING/SELECTION CRITERIA
Shy Rabbit has wisely chosen the broad themes of "Forms, Figures, Symbols" to maximize the range of contemporary expression that may be submitted. Most artists will likely find some affinity with the show's title and their existing work. Forms allows for abstraction and even work based on amorphic or undefined shapes and/or coloration, as well as realisticly rendered, non-figurative works. Figures implies tangible, but not necessarily realistically rendered life-based subject matter; figure studies, etc. Symbols allows for iconographic, even Jungian 'dream-based imagery' to be submitted; this could include imagery incorporating virtually any known symbol, logo, or other highly charged 'representative' cultural or socially-based interpretations.

Given these broad themes, I will select those submissions that I feel are the most: compelling, interesting and/or well executed; appropriately and/or professionally presented; original in style, and/or contemporary/timely in feel or tone. I will also be looking for enough work in 2 & 3 dimensional
mediums to allow for an interesting, varied and balanced installation, in keeping with the high level and broad range of contemporary work that Shy Rabbit has presented in the past.

-Gerry Riggs

IMAGE SPECIFICATIONS
Images must be submitted on CD or DVD. 35mm slide submissions will be considered but high resolution digital images are preferred. CDs/DVDs and slides will not be returned to artists so that images can be kept on file for future reference and documentation.

Digital Specifications:
*.JPG or TIFF file format
*350 ppi at 8.675 inches/22 cm width

35 mm slide specification:
*cardboard or plastic mounts only (no glass)
*protect slides in plastic sleeves
*each slide must include artist’s name and slide number
that corresponds with number on Entry Form
*add $5.oo per slide to Entry Fee for digital scanning

ENTRY DEADLINE: September 19, 2006
Entries must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Tuesday, September 19, 2006. Artist notification will be by email only on Monday, September 25, 2006.
It is essential that artists have an email address and check it regularly.

FEES
Non-refundable entry fees are $25 for 1-3 images, plus $5 for each additional image, up to a maximum of 6. Slide entries must be accompanied by an additional $5 per slidescanning fee. Fees must accompany entries. Please make checks or money orders payable to: SHY RABBIT. Entries will be mailed to: SHY RABBIT, PO Box 5887, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147. Entry and slide scanning fees may also be paid by approved credit card (Visa and MasterCard only). Credit card payments will be processed via our DMC ARTS, LLC Merchant Account which is the name that will appear on the card holder’s bank statement.

SALES & COMMISIONS
Sales will be encouraged, therefore all artwork must be available for sale. SHY RABBIT will retain a commission of 40% of the sale price. Price your artwork accordingly, including packaging or special crating costs. Payment to the artist will be mailed within 30 days after receipt of proceeds from sales.

SHIPPING, LIABILITY & INSURANCE
Artists whose work is accepted for the exhibit will be given specific shipping or hand delivery instructions in their Acceptance Notification Email. Shipping and insurance in transit to and from your address is the artist’s responsibility. SHY RABBIT assumes no responsibility and shall not be held responsible for any damage of any kind that occurs during shipping. All work shipped or delivered must include full payment (or approved credit card) for return. All return shipping fees advanced will be returned to the artist if the work is sold. Artists must pack and crate works carefully in RE-USABLE shipping containers. SHY RABBIT will insure all artworks in our possession from the time of their arrival up to the time at which they are sold or shipped to the artist. Insured value will equal the artist’s portion. We will handle work with all reasonable care while in our possession. Artwork that, upon receipt and inspection, is determined to be too fragile to handle in a public exhibition, or potentially hazardous to visitors, will not be unpacked and will be returned to the artist at their own expense.

PRESENTATION
Pedestals and gallery lighting will be provided to show work to its best advantage. Artwork may also be freestanding, ceiling- or wall-mounted. All work must be suitably prepared with proper supports, hanging devices (no sawtooth-type hangers), and clear instructions for installation.

PUBLICITY
“Forms, Figures, Symbols” will be promoted in print, online and in all available art and event calendars regionally, state and nation wide.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS and PERMISSION
Images submitted—and other images of accepted work—may be used on http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com and elsewhere in printed postcards, posters, advertising, catalogs, and other promotional materials and on the Internet, both prior to and following the exhibition. By entering this exhibition and signing the agreement, artists warrant that all artwork they submit for jurying is original to them and that it does not infringe on any other artist’s or entity’s copyrighted or trademarked work. Artists must also have received permission from the photographer of their artwork for SHY RABBIT’s use in catalogs, advertising, and for promotional and sales purposes with no additional financial obligation due to the artist or photographer.

DELIVERY
Accepted work being shipped must be received between October 2-14, 2006, in Pagosa Springs, CO. If hand delivered, it can be received at the exhibition location on Saturday, October 14, 2006, 10:00am to 4:00pm. Work may be disallowed if it is not suitably prepared for exhibition or was not adequately represented by the image submitted for jurying. Exhibiting artists will be provided with full delivery details.

AGREEMENT
The receipt of any application will be understood to imply agreement on the part of the entrant with all conditions set forth and inferred in this prospectus.

For a .PDF file of this Prospectus and Entry Form please send a request via email to shyrabbit01@aol.com.

For additional information please contact SHY RABBIT at:

SHY RABBIT
333 Bastille Drive
PO Box 5887
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

(v) 970.731.2766
(f) 970.731.2659
email: shyrabbit01@aol.com
blog: http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com

"Mind's Material: Sensation, Cognition and Knowledge," Master Works by: Doug Pedersen, Kelsey Hauck and Karl Isberg

2006-07-31T13:15:00.000-06:00

Pagosa Springs, Colorado – Shy Rabbit, a contemporary art space and gallery, presents “Mind’s Material: Sensation, Cognition & Knowledge”, featuring the masterworks of Doug Pedersen, Kelsey Hauck and Karl Isberg. The exhibition runs from August 26 – October 7, 2006, with an artist’s reception on Saturday, August 26, from 5-8 p.m.

Gallery hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 1-4 p.m., and 1-6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month. Shy Rabbit is located at: 333 Bastille Drive, Units B-1 & B-4. For more information: log onto http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com, call (970) 731-2766, or email shyrabbit01@aol.com.

“Mind’s Material” brings the work of Pedersen, Hauck and Isberg together for the first time since their fateful meeting in 1983. The human image is key to each artist’s work, which ends any similarities that they might otherwise exhibit.

Pedersen’s paintings are filled with heads: Heads that look like masks or ancient sculptures. Heads with mouths agape, or lips pursed. Heads with cratered eyes. Red faces on green backgrounds. Gobs of paint and layers of color masterfully applied to canvas creating images of heads filled with expressions of the here and now.

Hauck’s collage figures often incorporate fine Japanese papers that look as if they could be brush strokes of paint. Capturing movement, laughter, emotion and spirit in tiny pieces of paper all placed together to create an image that might be equally beautiful and disturbing.

Isberg paints abstracted heads and figures, using color and geometry to express desire and emotion. Some of his work is vibrant and colorful; other paintings are muted and subdued.

This work evokes passion and stirs emotion. It is art that expresses the human condition, with all its frailties and strengths. It is art that beckons a closer look, and that speaks in uniquely personal terms to each viewer that chances a better understanding.

For more information: log onto http://shyrabbit.blogspot.com or call (970) 731-2766.

Shy Rabbit is located at 333 Bastille Drive, Units B-1, B-4, west of downtown, and just south of the Pagosa Lakes area. Take Hwy 160 to North Pagosa Blvd., stay on North Pagosa to Bastille Drive (at UBC) turn left and stay on Bastille past Hopi. Shy Rabbit is located directly next to Pine Valley Rental. (GPS coordinates are latitude N37 degrees, 15.193 minutes and longitude W107, 5.074 minutes).