Artclectic took place virtually this year from Oct. 21 through 25. Taking precautions in order to keep everyone in the community safe, the USN decided that it would be better to move the traditionally in person event to an online art gallery.
Under normal circumstances, the Sperling Gymnasium is transformed into an art gallery, installing carpet, curtains, and ceiling high stands for each artist. This year makes the 24th run of the annual show, which always takes place from Thursday to Saturday of one of the last weeks of October., with a Patron’s Party to kick off the event. This year’s party was held on Zoom.
Each year, Artclectic is organized by USNA, a fundraising organization made up of parents, family, friends, faculty and staff of the USN community. This year’s chairs of the Artclectic committee were Dara Freiberg, Jessie Rosenblum, and Chris Murdock– all USN parents.
Artclectic raises money for the Endowment for Innovative Teaching, which “provides funds that allow teachers to participate in professional development and other learning opportunities,” said Freiberg. Along with this donation, Artclectic also provides a connection between USN and local artists and art-lovers. In past years, it has also been an educational opportunity for USN students, as they were able to come into the gallery and learn from artists firsthand. Although this component was missed this year, the event was still a huge success.
Even through a virtual setting, Artclectic was able to provide a sense of connection throughout the USN community amid the current state of separation. Art sales were at 11th out of the 24 years of the event. Seeing these successes, chairs are considering incorporating online aspects in future years, even if an in-person art show can be held safely.
One downside to a virtual method is that buyers are unable to see art in person before purchasing. Artists also can’t talk to customers or talk about their artwork to explain the meaning, ideas, and process behind each piece. “Art is meant to be seen in person. There are so many things that are lost in translation to the digital format,” said Artclectic artist and high school art teacher Andy King.
The advantages may weigh out this disadvantage. When online shopping becomes an option, many people who wouldn’t be able to come see the show in person–due to anything from distance to time to convenience–are able to enjoy the event. “We are able to reach a larger audience….definitely hitting more demographics of people,” said King. This year, there were buyers from all across the country including Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle. When online, the limitation of space is also removed, and each artist is able to showcase as many pieces as they wish.
The event could have been easily cancelled due to safety restrictions. The online version called for harder work and coordination from both artists and organizers behind the scenes, but due to USNA’s efforts, the event was a success.
