The "Anything Will Help" Art Show

I had the pleasure of seeing the "Anything Will Help" art show in downtown Portland last night where my fiancee had a piece of her own on display. Was a wonderful event showcasing not only local Portland artists but creative talents around the country who were able to mail in their art just for the show.

The only rules to participate in the show was that each artist was required to use recycled cardboard as their canvas and no piece entered could be priced over $50. Works consisted of every visual media possible from acrylic paints, water colors, pen and ink, aerosol paint, and any substance the artist could come up with to exercise their craft.

The turnout had impressive numbers in patrons who came to view, socialize, and purchase the art on display. It was hosted at the Jack London Bar located in downtown Portland by the Oregonized Galleree.

Although there were some traditional pieces featured, many of the works showed a deep appreciation for street art from vibrant colors, lettering, and even hand screened materials.

Several of the artworks consisted of deep print and graffiti influences while a local sticker art crew was on hand selling their work as well. And although this "Stickman" didn't have any of his merchandise or artwork up for sale at the show I discovered another "Stikman" did. ( sure hope there is room for the two of us)

It was difficult to come away from the show and not be inspired in my own art. Since coming to Portland last September I will confess this was one of the better art events I was able to make it to and I was glad I did. That even though I am starting a Sticker Company which is what this site is built for, I am still driven to be a part of a community that supports and promotes other artists as well. 

Future "Stickman Speaks" articles featured on this blog will set out to prove just that by featuring other artists and those that inspire me to do what I do. And perhaps at the end of the day there just might be a space left on a wall somewhere for me. 

If you enjoyed the photos in this article I invite you to check out my G+ profile which can be found at plus.ly/stickman. More photos from this show as well as some of my other photography work can be found there.