The annual Startup Art Fair, a highly anticipated event in the art world, has finally returned after a five-year hiatus due to the pandemic. The fair, which took place at the boutique Hotel Del Sol in San Francisco, brought together 60 talented artists from the Bay Area, California, and the United States, showcasing their unique and diverse works. The Unique Setting
The fair’s unique setting was a major draw for both artists and art lovers. Unlike traditional art fairs, which often take place in crowded galleries or exhibition halls, Startup transformed the hotel into an immersive art experience. The rooms were thoughtfully paired and presented, allowing attendees to delve into the artists’ works in an intimate setting. The hotel’s grounds, including a central outdoor courtyard, featured installations, sculptures, music performances, panel talks, and plenty of opportunities for spontaneous gatherings and conversations.
- One of the standout features of the fair was the emphasis on storytelling in the artwork.
- Artists were selected based on their unique perspectives and experiences, which added to the fair’s diverse and engaging atmosphere.
- The fair’s focus on community and connection was also notable, with artists and attendees alike sharing conversations and ideas.
“The art world has been in a slump for the last two years, with people holding their breath until after the elections,” said Ray Beldner, Startup Director. “For two campaign years, it was stressful for everyone. Now that we have the government we supposedly voted for, it’s even more stressful. We need art more than ever. People have been asking for years when I’d start it up again.”
Danville-based artist John Osgood was one of the 60 artists selected to showcase his work at the fair. His representational and abstract works, which often draw from nature or urban environments, were on display throughout the fair. Osgood’s commitment to public art and fine art prints made his work more accessible to a wider audience. Art as a Form of Self-Expression
“For me, being part of the art world here is important,” Osgood said. “I have a sliding scale for prints—not everyone can afford an original painting—and the pricing for murals varies.” Osgood’s experience with public art has given him a unique perspective on the impact of his work on the community.
| Work Title | Medium | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Defense Mechanism | Painting on wood panel | A small, abstract work that might be seen as a car, helmet, or insect. |
| Directional Intent | Painting | A bird gazing to its left with purpose, exploring the themes of survival and freedom. |
Another artist, Joy Broom, worked from her home in Martinez, creating mixed-media paintings that incorporate symbolic images, archival materials, and natural elements. Her work, such as “Memory; Rings,” features pencil drawings on plywood, letter strips, nails, and wire under a protective, purified beeswax skin. Exploring Identity and Community
“For biology and family histories are powerful forces,” Broom said. “I can’t help but want to communicate both.” Broom’s art is deeply rooted in her small-town America upbringing, but she believes that her stories are universal and can be shared with audiences worldwide.
| Work Title | Medium | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Memory; Rings | Mixed-media painting | A piece featuring pencil drawings, letter strips, nails, and wire under a protective beeswax skin. |
| Candelabra, DNA | Mixed-media painting | A work that fuses cardboard cutouts, ancestral letters, and antique British glass laboratory slides. |
Overall, the Startup Art Fair was a success, showcasing the talents of 60 artists and providing a unique and engaging experience for attendees. The fair’s emphasis on storytelling, community, and connection made it a standout event in the art world.