Have you always wanted to be part of a Renaissance that doesn't end in the word "Faire?" Well, congratulations, because you may already be! According to the book RenGen: The Renaissance Generation, today's cultural consumers are paving the way for a transformation in American culture. The author posits that phenomenon like the rise of the DIY ethic, anti-consumerist movements, and the reinvention of canonical arts institutions (like that collaboration between Chicago Sinfonietta and Poi Dog Pondering?) are evidence that knowledge and creativity are becoming the new social currency.
She goes on to claim that this cultural (and commercial) revolution will change everything from the economy to love and marriage in America. If you're skeptical that the popularity of American Idol isn't a sign of the coming apocalypse but rather an indication that we're ready for a re-birth, then you might consider seeing the author, Patricia Martin, when she comes to Chicago on May 29th to speak to the local Arts & Business Council.
- Jamie Smith |
Proximity Magazine, a Chicago-based journal dedicated to contemporary art and culture, will launch this month as part of the Version Festival and NEXT Art Fair. The magazine will focus on the interaction between local and global art in the hopes of mapping the complex ecologies of creative communities. They aim to “connect Chicago’s activities to the rest of the world,” hence the name Proximity.
The inaugural issue will focus on Chicago’s arts and cultural networks, artists, projects, and events. The previews of the issue present both interesting content and design, including a piece which discusses progressive art in Chicago and a map drawing connections between organizations and projects in the city. The magazine will also include profiles of local art spaces like The Suburban in Oak Park. (And while it’s not directly related to Chicago, have you ever seen a cuter tank cozy?)
Complimentary copies will be available at both Version and NEXT. The publishers also plan to distribute in cultural institutions, bookstores and cafés across the city and around the world. If you’re interested in following the progress of the launch or contributing to future issues, visit proximitymagazine.com.
- Jamie Smith |
