The Artists' Sweatshop

The goal of this 3-hour workshop conceived by artist Bruce Patrick Jones is to bring together a large number of convention attendees to observe artists working under pressure and to participate in the creative process.

Here's how it will work: A group of artists agree to host the sweatshops. Each host has a table of six "guests" -- that's the limit of people who can sign up for each artist's table.

But in reality, we all get to participate: All convention attendees will be invited to submit a "theme." As Bruce describes it, "It could be a phrase, a word, a song title, a specific idea, an abstract notion ...whatever." These suggestions are written on a piece of paper, placed in a box and kept secret. That box for your submission will be available in the days leading up to the workshop, displayed prominently at the registration table in the lobby and during the dinner banquet the night before.

At the start of the sweatshop, each artist picks a theme from the box and he or she must then create one or more paper dolls, interpreting the theme. The doll/dolls must be completed within the first hour and the guests get to see the artist create --- under pressure. Artists can invite guests to make suggestions and comments.

Although there is a limit of six who can sit at each artist's table, the rest of us can wander in and quietly observe the process.

The artists who have agreed to participate are: David Wolfe, Sylvia Kleindinst, Ralph Hodgdon, Kwei-lin Lum, Marilyn Henry and of course, Bruce.

And here's the latest from Bruce on this exciting workshop:
"They should put their names on their submissions---one per person---and the six chosen ones will be awarded a prize. ( I'm sure I can come up with six little prizes). I hope they will all be as excited about this as I am."

You bet we are, Bruce!

Artists' Sweatshop with Bruce Patrick Jones and others. MATERIALS: Participants will be requested to bring WHATEVER they think might help to create a bunch of paper dolls within three hours. Paper, pens, pencils, scissors, glue, stickers, decorative paper, etc. Limit: 6 per Artist Table. Free.