For one spectacularly, brilliant Saturday every year, Atlanta’s diverse art scene takes a decidedly different twist and moves art into the realm of the contemporary mash-up, an all out brawl of the fine arts kind.
On Oct. 17 — what began as a beef between a couple of local artists in this cultural corner of the south, and grew into one of the regions most anticipated art exhibitions — will culminate in the World Wide Art Federation’s Art Battle Series on the grounds of The Goat Farm Arts Center.
The brainchild of renowned visual artists Fabian Williams and Fahamou Pecou, the Art Battle is a competitive live arts performances featuring colorful painters and artisans — many based on iconic wrestling personalities — who will provide a satirical perspective on important social topics. The 2012 Art Battle is appropriately themed “The Election of the First President.”
Rolling out spoke with Williams recently about what to expect from the Art Battle and its participants. –roz edward
What will patrons and guests see this year at the art battle?
We always strive to push the envelope and do something different. … This year it’s based on politics. I’m a political junkie and I’m just observing and making note of some of the things I see in this political process, and putting it into the show. For instance, I never really felt like Romney was a good candidate, or that the race was close at all. But if you watch CNN and Fox they are working hard to make it seem like this is an even race. … The show will reflect a lot of that type of nonsense — like super pacts and negative campaigns.
Is this show for non-art lovers too?
The World Wide Arts Federation as an organization specializes in arranging live art exhibitions that are innovative and entertaining. We are pushing forward to increase the level of quality of the pieces that are created in the show, as well as make it more fun and entertaining for people that are not as interested in art. … The WWAF is a place where local artists can exhibit their alter egos as well as their artistic abilities in an environment that embraces individuality.
Who are the other personalities in the WWAF’s Art Battle?
The candidates/artists in the battle are Shawn Knight, who is the Golden Child; Jessica Scott-Felder, who is Lady Luxe; and Faatimah Stevens as Faa Fatale. Fahamu Pecou is a special guest and commentator and I am the Occasional Superstar. I’ll be channeling Herman Cain.
The WWAF Art Battle: The Election of The First President will take place on Oct. 17 at the Goat Farms Art Center. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10, $5 for students with college ID and live entertainment by DJ Jahmad.
Note: A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to the Grace Kisa Donation Fundraiser for internationally renowned artist Grace Kisa.
