After a 10-second countdown, Art Battle contestants each complete a painting within 20 minutes, a crowd observing over their shoulders. This is repeated for another two rounds. “It was intense,” says visual arts major Ambereen Raza. “What takes people days to complete was done in 20 minutes. It was exciting and inspiring.”
Art Battle, held in different cities across Canada (once a month in Toronto), isn’t about observing from a far-off distance. It’s a visceral, up-close look at what is usually a solitary endeavor, and in this regard, can be an interesting look into the mind and thought process of an artist.
A bar is always available for anyone in the mood for a beer or glass of wine. Members sway the outcome by silently voting for their favourite artist after each of the three rounds. As the battle progresses, the number of contestants is slowly narrowed down. Eventually, one contestant remains to win the national championship.
The artworks produced range in style. Some are more abstract, while others are more realistic. Some artists prefer to paint figurative artworks, while others are more interested in landscapes. There is plenty of choice when voting time comes around.
After the first round is completed, a silent auction begins of the paintings created during the event, with bids starting at around $60 and going up to $100 or higher. This presents another side of the art and demonstrates the intersection of art and commerce. Art Battle fills the void of a national painting competition, in which the audience interacts with the atmosphere in ways that aren’t possible in competitions like Canadian Idol.
Catch the next Art Battle competition in Toronto to take part in a unique experience — the space is one of respectful intensity, and there’s a lot to take in.
Leonara Buskin
Contributor
