|
ARTvision founder Will Pollock never dreamed his project – which originated as part of his annual New Year’s Eve party – would take off the way it has, but he’s not complaining.
Now in its seventh season, ARTvision is an artist’s collective that puts creative, unique work up for sale to benefit a local charity. For five years running, it’s been Positive Impact, which coordinates mental health and prevention services for those affected by HIV/AIDS. This year’s event takes place Friday, Dec. 7, at Stone Four Studios at Studio Plex.
The event honors Pollock’s aunt, who was involved in charity work for more than 40 years in San Francisco. After visiting a party she was involved with in the Bay Area one year, he came home and decided he wanted to do something similar.
“She was a remarkable woman and I wanted to do something to remember her,” Pollock says. “I thought, why not add something to the event I do every year. My whole family is artists.”
He begin rallying his artist friends and meeting others to be able to display their work. In his first year, Pollock made $1,400. In his biggest season, however, he netted $14,000. He admits he has come a long way from his “modest beginnings.”
The theme of “ARTvision 7” is “Uncharted: Travel to Enchanted Lands,” featuring original works that challenge the idea that travel is only a change of physical location.
“It’s a theme that is near and dear to my heart,” says Pollock, whose piece “Watercolor in Craggnauen” is part of the event.
In all, Pollock has close to 30 works this year – paintings, photography, sculpture, a book — with some star power to boot. Comedian, actor and part-time Atlantan Margaret Cho, for one, is contributing a DVD.
A preview party will take place on Dec. 6, the night before the event, held this year at Pollock’s Old 4th Ward studio. Eager patrons can go online early and preview the pieces. The work is offered at a flat rate instead of an auction.
Pollock is also working on a book about the beginning of ARTvision, which will also benefit Positive Impact.