There were more than 900 submissions for this year’s open call for “The Big Show” at Lawndale Art Center; only 69 pieces made it into the final exhibit. “They told me this is the smallest show ever,” laughs Brooklyn-based juror Marco Antonini, gallery director for NURTUREart. “It was exciting to curate a show without knowing anything about the people, without being influenced by the artists’ background, success — or the lack thereof.” Antonini says he wasn’t looking for work in any one style or medium; instead, he was looking for excellence. The work he chose falls at the two opposite ends of the spectrum — it either reflects a high level of professionalism and could easily be seen at a gallery, or it’s nothing like what’s currently seen in your typical art space. “I didn’t know what to expect in terms of quality of the work, but I was very impressed by the submissions. I think we found a lot of great stuff.” There’s an opening reception 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. July 13. Regular viewing hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Through August 11. 4912 Main.
Mondays-Saturdays. Starts: July 13. Continues through Aug. 11, 2012