The 2015 Glenfiddich Canadian Artists in Residence Prize Winner
Gil Cohen — March 27, 2015 — Art & Design
References: glenfiddich & glenfiddich
Set in the Spoke Club in downtown Toronto, the 2015 Glenfiddich Canadian Artists in Residence event celebrates another year of Canadian art, in particular, this year's residency winner Jon Sasaki.
Infusing his artwork with humor, whimsy and insatiable curiosity, Jon describes his work as "something that may seem preposterous, but becomes more about the process of problem-solving and overcoming obstacles." This phrase can definitely be applied to his proposal for his Glenfiddich residency where he proposes to build a working airplane based on plans he saw in a Popular Mechanics magazine from 1981. "I tend to respond to the landscape," the artist explains, "and, looking forward to working in the majestic Scottish Highlands, I was inspired to take it in all at once [for which] I would need an airplane." He goes on to express that, regardless of whether or not his proposition becomes possible, he's intrigued by the challenges to come and the adaptations of his plans as he works.
Andy Fairgrave, the Curator of the Glenfiddich Artist in Residence program, echoes Jon's words as he describes how conceptual modern art goes hand-in-hand with the Glenfiddich brand, which itself is a cultural signifier in Scotland. "The story of William Grant is very much a pioneering story," Andy states, "and we chose Jon Sasaki as this year's Canadian Artists in Residence winner because of his phrase 'exceptional singular' which is fitting for single malt whiskey and the idea that innovators and achievers are often singular individuals."
Infusing his artwork with humor, whimsy and insatiable curiosity, Jon describes his work as "something that may seem preposterous, but becomes more about the process of problem-solving and overcoming obstacles." This phrase can definitely be applied to his proposal for his Glenfiddich residency where he proposes to build a working airplane based on plans he saw in a Popular Mechanics magazine from 1981. "I tend to respond to the landscape," the artist explains, "and, looking forward to working in the majestic Scottish Highlands, I was inspired to take it in all at once [for which] I would need an airplane." He goes on to express that, regardless of whether or not his proposition becomes possible, he's intrigued by the challenges to come and the adaptations of his plans as he works.
Andy Fairgrave, the Curator of the Glenfiddich Artist in Residence program, echoes Jon's words as he describes how conceptual modern art goes hand-in-hand with the Glenfiddich brand, which itself is a cultural signifier in Scotland. "The story of William Grant is very much a pioneering story," Andy states, "and we chose Jon Sasaki as this year's Canadian Artists in Residence winner because of his phrase 'exceptional singular' which is fitting for single malt whiskey and the idea that innovators and achievers are often singular individuals."
Trend Themes
1. Humor-infused Artwork - Opportunity for artists to incorporate humor into their artwork, creating unique and engaging experiences for viewers.
2. Innovative Problem-solving - Artists embracing problem-solving and overcoming obstacles as integral parts of their creative process, leading to unique and thought-provoking art installations.
3. Conceptual Modern Art - Growing interest in conceptual modern art that challenges traditional artistic norms and pushes boundaries, creating new and exciting forms of expression.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Opportunity for galleries and curators to showcase humor-infused artwork that engages and captivates viewers, attracting a wider and more diverse audience.
2. Creative Residencies - Increasing demand for creative residencies that foster innovative problem-solving and provide artists with unique opportunities to explore and refine their artistic vision.
3. Whiskey and Spirits - Potential for whiskey and spirits brands to collaborate with conceptual modern artists to create immersive experiences and unique brand narratives that resonate with consumers.
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