This virtual salon is ideal for artists who are interested in engaging discussions about art and are open to getting feedback from gallery staff and other artists.

Artists and creatives from all disciplines and stages of their careers are welcome to join at one of two ZOOM sessions on Thursday, June 4, 6-7 p.m. and Friday, June 5, 2-3 p.m.

There are TWO free ticket types for this event - three slots are available for artists who wish to have their artwork critiqued. Five slots are available for observers and critique participants.

A salon is a gathering of people as a place for the exchange of ideas that often revolve around art and literature. Salons have a long history in art.

This salon series is guided by a process of art criticism and provides a framework through which to articulate, judge and explore the meaning of works of art that we experience. Art criticism is the discussion or evaluation of visual art based on its aesthetics. It asks the viewer to consider the work that they are looking at critically, and question what the artist is trying to say, the art historical context in which the work exists and ultimately, how successful it is as a work of art.

The process of art criticism is valuable not only in learning how to look at other’s work, but also provides an important lens through which to understand one’s own artistic practice. It is also the framework in which many galleries (including contemporary art galleries) will evaluate work.

Alternator Chats are informal sessions are ideal for those who are interested in engaging with each other and Alternator staff about projects that they are continuing, are researching or have started new and can be used as a sounding board for processing your new practices, methods and approaches to your practice, especially during this time of isolation.

Both sessions are free and open to the public. Registration is required through Eventbrite. Participation in both sessions is limited to a maximum of eight (8) people. Three slots are available for artists who wish to have their work critiqued. Participants will be provided with a Zoom link to join their session.

For many artists and creatives, livelihoods, processes for making work, and inspiration have all been upended by COVID-19. Alternator Chat was created in response to the closure of the Alternator's gallery and office as a way to connect with our members and the art community-at-large around different themes and relevant to artists today.