Artists Under the Influence

Area hospitals are bracing for an influx of patients to coincide with the opening of Vincent, an exhibit inspired by the Dutch post-impressionist painter Vincent Van Gogh. Local artists have been invited to submit their take on the paintings of the troubled artist, who died at the age of 37 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. It is feared some may not stop short of being inspired by the artwork alone. Whether you side with the romantic set that asserts Vincent Van Gogh cut off his ear in a fit of depression as a gift for his favorite prostitute, or roll with the latter-day studies that suggest it was Paul Gauguin who lopped it off with a sword in front of a bordello, neither story paints a portrait of a healthy role model for today's artist. Vincent will be on display this Saturday from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Koken Art Factory (2500 Ohio Avenue). Admission is $7. In the event of an outer-ear injury to an artist under the influence, apply direct pressure until the bleeding stops, place the severed ear on ice in a clean cloth and seek medical attention immediately. For all the details, visit kokenartfactory.com.
Sat., Sept. 15, 2012