What is an Open Atelier? And why should you go?
This year Ellen Spijkstra and team organized another "Open Atelier Route" on Curacao. But what is it ? And why should you go?
Atelier Ellen Spijkstra, Curacao, 2024
Photo ©Sharelly Emanuelson
Open Atelier typically refers to an open studio or workshop in French. It is a space where artists, craftsmen, or creative individuals work on their projects and creations, and it may be open to the public for viewing or interaction. In an Open Atelier, visitors can often see the artistic process, observe artists at work, and sometimes even engage in conversations with the creators. These spaces provide a more intimate and interactive experience compared to traditional galleries or exhibition spaces.
Atelier Marlies Schoenmakers, Curacao,2024
Photo ©Sharelly Emanuelson
The concept aligns with the idea of fostering a connection between artists and the community, allowing for a more direct exchange between creators and those who appreciate their work. Open Ateliers are not limited to any specific art form and can encompass various disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and other forms of visual or performing arts.
Atelier Isabel Bérénos, Curacao, 2024
Photo ©Sharelly Emanuelson
On Curacao, Many artist have their studio near or at their home allowing you to get to know many parts of the island during the weekend. But the most important reason we advise you to go is to understand that the finished work we often see is but one aspect of what it means to be an artist. Many artists work and develop their concepts for years, and a few copy and display them at a faster pace while others keep many works a secret. Another reason is to learn about your taste. Do you know what type of art you like? Are you more of a figurative fan or are you a more enthusiast of contemporary artworks or prefer abstracts that can lead to an open interpretation?
Today we can download and buy works from all over the world but there is still something special about buying an art piece from an artist you directly visited and are following their practice and growth over the years.
Atelier Marcel van Duijneveldt, Curacao , 2024
Photo ©Sharelly Emanuelson
The last reason we can mention why you should go is that unfortunately, our art & culture infrastructure on the island cannot handle the needed spaces to display and show the diversity of talent, skills, medium, and levels available on the island. This means that the Open Atelier Route is a special event to see new talents emerge and see works that otherwise will find a spot in someone’s home and then never will be seen for an open public again.
In this blog, you saw some pictures of the Pariba di brug weekend. Remember next weekend Studio Otro will be open on Saturday 9 March and Sunday 10 March from 10 to 6 pm. Hope to see you.
Alejandra Cijntje, Active member of Piso 0, at Madurostraat, Punda, 2024
Photo ©Sharelly Emanuelson
Kerr de Lanooi, Artist, Active member of Piso 0, at Madurostraat, Punda , 2024
Photo ©Sharelly Emanuelson
