by Ylenia Mino

The world of art is populated by so many talented minds but many face the challenge of A lack of platforms to actually showcase their works, meet other artists and have their work reviewed. Recognizing that many artists struggle to find such platforms, Clio Art Fair came into existence in 2014 with the idea of celebrating and promoting emerging artists as well as creating a venue for artistic innovation. This fair focuses its attention on the kinds of contemporary art and interventions that are being created by independent artists all over the world.

Clio Art Fair highlights artists who do not have exclusive gallery representation in New York and who work across a wide range of media often deviating from traditional art practice definitions.

To have their works showcased in the fair, artists are first selected for inclusion by a panel of judges. When selecting the works, judges look at the quality of the work rather than the artist’s previous exhibition history. Showing in the fair provides artists with a platform to share their work with the world, to come in contact with a network of other artists, critics, and art dealers while getting press, to have visibility in the New York art scene, and to provide a chance to view the works of other creatives.

Clio Art Fair has so far held five editions. The most recent fair was held on October 19th – 22nd, 2017 where 42 artists had their work exhibited in New York.

Artworks that particularly stood out in this last edition include:

Lainard Bush’s grided abstract paintings, consisting of meticulously masked layers of acrylic textures. Their surface resulting in a stunning spectacle of color, geometry, and reflections simultaneously reminiscent of modernist paintings and Byzantine mosaics.

Jeffrey Bisaillon’s humorous acrylic on hardpanel coated in epoxy resin. The 3D panels of Domprocet and Racisanix, depicting pharmaceutical drug jars with hilarious labels commenting on current social plagues including narcissism, xenophobia, racism and gun violence.

Tai Taeoalii, with his intricately detailed graphite drawings on mylar depicting fantastical animals engaged in surreal narratives that while seemingly playful, uncover darker issues or our seemingly Pollyannish society. Particularly striking is his work titled Peace, an illustrated parody of police brutality.

Kaya Deckelbaum’s light installations of molded netting forms, and augmented by the reflected shadows they cast on the wall. Fragile and whimsical they defy gravity and unfold with grace creating a dreamy environment that envelopes the viewer.

Shreya Mehta’s glass works. Her blown glass abstract strokes simultaneously reminiscent of abstract expressionism, and calligraphy become a fascinating way of exploring Hindu philosophy and spirituality while creating her own language.

Kevin Frech’s videos, particularly, his video documenting his witty hilarious performance satirizing the debate over the minimum wage.

With its inclusive approach and contagious energy, Clio Art Fair continues to be a place that independent artists call home.

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