New at the Walker: Painter Painter & free painting workshops

Lesley Vance, Untitled, 2011. Photo courtesy of the Waker Art Center.

The new art exhibit “Painter Painter” at the Walker Art Center sounds really neat.

At a time when artists may work without obligation to medium, why choose the materials of painting? What does it mean for an artist to assume the role of painter today? And just what is at stake for a new generation committed to painting?

Featuring new work by 15 artists from the United States and Europe, the exhibition Painter Painter presents a focused survey of some recent developments in abstract painting and studio practice and reflects on the ever-shifting role of the painter in contemporary art and culture. During the run of the exhibition, the Walker will host a series of events exploring the process and language of painting today.

See it for FREE on Thursday evenings and the first Saturday of each month.  Once inspired by the exhibit, get painting in a series of artist-led activities. All workshops are free.

Free First Saturday: Painters’ Paradise
Sat, Feb 2, 10 am-3 pm

Join a daylong interactive studio session with a round-robin roster of painters.

Workshop: Joe Smith
Thu, Feb 7, 6-8 pm

Collaborate with artist Joe Smith to create large- and small-scale abstractions.

Workshop: Ute Bertog
Thu, Feb 14, 6-8 pm

Drop in for an exercise in abstraction using paint and text with artist Ute Bertog.

Teen Art Lounge: Jay Heikes
Thu, Feb 21, 5-8 pm

Artists ages 13 to 18 are invited to work with artist Jay Heikes, who shares his process of material alchemy.