Controversy arises from Blackbird art

According to The Baldwin Bulletin recent Letter to the Editor by Bryan Dempster, the current Blackbird art exhibit is “poorly presented.” Dempster goes on to state that, “there was no beauty in any of these pictures; certainly no compassion.” Yet, many Blackbird employees and clientele seem to think otherwise. His opinion has certainly affected the rise in discussion of what constitutes the title of art.

The artist, Logan Ferrelle, is a recent graduate of GCSU. Her art has a much deeper implication available in the provided text of her artist’s statement. In response to the controversy, she has allowed Blackbird to supply veils for the more disturbing photos just in time for the Sweetwater Festival. Clients have the chance to decide if they wish to view the art or not.

Either way, every individual has the right to their own opinion just as much as Blackbird has the right to promote what art they please. Blackbird owner, Jimmy Holder, supports Ferrelle. He believes her art is beautifully prepared. He says they will continue to allow artists to display their works. As an atmosphere of creativity, Blackbird will uphold their role as a venue for local artists.

Voice Over
Blackbird
Personnel:

“Some people thought we were promoting domestic abuse with the artwork, but Blackbird isn’t. We have been working with the art department and Logan. A lot of parents didn’t want their children looking at images of dead bodies. This is our compromise. (Blackbird) loves Logan’s work.”
-Jimmy Holder, Blackbird Owner

“Historically, coffee shops are around for philisophical discussion, artistic expression, and intellectual powerhouses. So, if this guy has a right to express his freedom of speech writing to the Baldwin Bulletin, then as an artist Logan has a right to express her artistic views. It’s called co-existing with others and respect for their views. And it’s Blackbird’s pleasure to display her work as the beautiful art it is.”
-John Fogleman, Blackbird Bartista

“Logan has the right to express herself as an artist and we as an independent coffee shop have the right to hang what we please. Unfortunately, the images are seen as strong and distrurbing and inappropriate by some.”
-Amanda Cepero, Blackbird Bartista

Voice Over
Coffee-sippers:

“I think the artwork is in a fair venue. When I first saw it I was deciding if it was reality or whether it was staged. I don’t see anything offensive about it. However, I think the veils are a good idea, because if someone is offended they can close them.”
-Joe Blizzard, Visitor to Blackbird and husband to an artist

“I definitely think coffee shops should display art. At first the art disturbed me, but the photos are well done. I respect the artist for taking the criticism and taking into consideration others’ thoughts. Nevertheless, it’s art.”
-Mollie Kimmelman, employee at Central State Hospital

“Origniality is what Blackbird is all about. I go to Blackbird for more than coffee. I go for the atmosphere and I always make it a point to check out the art. I’ve never found anything largely offensive – not even the current exhibit. I got a kick out of the veils, actually. It draws even more attention to her art and it makes a bigger statement. Kudos.”
-Warren Johnson, GCSU student

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Oct 24 2008. Filed under Spotlight. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry