ACE

Upstate Alliance for the Creative Economy

Corey Aldrich

Beyond Khaos – The Art of Maxime Taccardi

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I met Maxime Taccardi through a friend and started following him on social media. I was quickly blown away by his unapologetic exploration of the dark side of the human psyche and folklore. Well educated and with a voracious and substantial following, Maxime boasts collectors around the globe. I am thrilled to have him drop by and share a bit about what drives him as a creative, just in time for Halloween, and the opening of his exhibit, “Beyond Khaos”, at Etrice Gallery in Albany on October 22nd.

Tell us a little bit about who you are, where you’re from and what you do as an artist.

I’m from Paris, France. I was an art teacher and kickboxing instructor for several years until I decided to retire to focus on my art. I’m a painter but also a musician, sculptor, photographer and video director. I enjoy experimenting in all art fields. I feel strongly attached to the principle of “Gesamktkunstwerk” (Total Art) explored by composer Richard Wagner. It is basically a melding of forms of art. I am also influenced by the composer Alexander Scriabine who tried to convey synesthesia within his work. Exploring a concept that strove to integrate all senses into one art piece. My art is the translation of my deeper thoughts and to a certain extend it is about the darkness that lurks within us all. Anyone can find an echo of their own psyche in it.

Maxime Taccardi, “Dark Path”

You were not always a full time artist. What is your background and how did you make the change to full time?

I obtained a Masters Degree in art and cultural sociology at the University Paul Verlaine in Metz. My parents passed away while I was still studying so I had no choice to go fully in the direction of my studies upon finishing my degree. They both died after a long battle with cancer. This had a strong and lasting effect on my practice. I actually did a painting called “Cancer” to represent the torment and pain they went through. I was doing a lot of artwork for bands in addition to a growing group of supporters and collectors which helped to build my reputation in the scene. This eventually allowed me to transition into a full time art practice.

Maxime Taccardi, “Cancer”

What is your motivation? What inspires you to create?

Mostly my dreams and life in general. Creating is a catharsis. I transform my trauma and negativity into art. I am constantly in a state of “creative process” and let my urges guide me. Sometimes I don’t know what will appear on the canvas but the will is strong. I let spontaneity guide me.

Maxime Taccardi, “Portrait of An American Family”

Should people be afraid of the subject matter you choose to explore and the extreme methods that you sometimes use to explore it?

I think people should be more afraid of our current reality. We live in a dark world and my art is a reflection of that. I could paint little flowers and happy themes but what would be the point? For me, art is a stand, a way to provoke and make people react. To encourage thinking and transcendence. It is stronger than words. The message can be interpreted in a myriad of ways which is part of the magic surrounding art. Sometimes I use my own blood as a medium for painting. It is to give life to my work. Literally, a way to live through the work. It helps me to embody the spirit of Gesamktkunstwerk in a visceral and complete way.

Maxime Taccardi, “I Can’t Blink Anymore”

Anything coming up that you would like to plug?

I have an exhibition called “Beyond Khaos” that will open on October 22 at Etrice Gallery on N Pearl street dowtown Albany, NY. It will have paintings, prints, sculpture and samples of some of my books and music.

I’m also working on my fourth book which will be released in 2022 by Heavy Music Artwork who published my 3 previous ones (The Book of Death, Beyond Khaos and The Book of Demons).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gYK-nQlPZs

FB: @maxime.taccardi | IG: @maximetaccardiartworks
Webshop: www.giin.bigcartel.com

LIVING ONLINE SERIES: Judie Gilmore, Opalka Gallery

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I recently connected with Judie Gilmore, Executive Director at the Opalka Gallery on the Russell Sage Campus in Albany. We met while working on the Breathing Lights Project, a massive, three-city public art exhibition that captivated the region in 2016. Not surprisingly, Judie continues to make things happen in a big way and has interesting thoughts to share on galleries, events and more.

Artist Adam Frelin’s “Summit” is installed atop the
Opalka Gallery

My background is in public and community-based art. When the job at Opalka came open in 2017, I was hesitant at first. The idea of working within this stuffy white box seemed limiting to what I love to do — shape public space, collaborate with diverse artists, create community. But, happily, we can do this within the gallery walls. Opalka doesn’t look like other academic galleries. Luckily, Russell Sage liked my vision, and hired me as Director and Curator. With our partnership at Albany Public Library, the public art we have brought there and to our campus, to showcasing guest curators and diverse artists, creating the Pop-up Beer Garden – I am doing what I love.

Opalka Pop-Up Beer Garden, Summer 2019

Yes and no. We were one of the only academic galleries in the region open to the public last year. Our daily operations remained the same. But we also wanted to offer engagement opportunities for people not comfortable visiting in-person. We produced exhibitions IRL, and also curated a whole new virtual space, with exhibition websites, 3D tours, virtual events and other online engagement. It was a lot more work that came with a steep learning curve.

How have you adapted to the changing pandemic requirements? Any suggestions or best practices for other gallerists?

Sharon Bates’ “Exhibit B” (2018)

Yes, we’ve definitely adapted and continue to do so. I was hugely grateful for the leadership at Russell Sage. They interpreted mountains of health regulations and then balanced student and staff health with a plan that allowed us to remain open. Their willingness to figure this out underscored that what we are doing is important and valued. It helped me find perspective – our community needs us. Art feeds people’s hearts and souls. It strengthens community ties. It helps people make sense of the world, to find empathy. These are not trivial things. My advice to other galleries – find a way to keep doing what you do. It is valued and important.

What are your thoughts regarding online programming as a substitute for in person programming?

I see both sides of this. I am as tired of Zoom events as the next person. But, last year our virtual lecture series saw an audience that was four (four!) times larger than before. But in terms of the community we are actively creating, nothing is a substitute for in-person programming. One of our last pre-pandemic events was a community dinner with two artists. Forty individuals, mostly strangers, gathered around a table and enjoyed a meal together. This kind of connection just can’t be replicated online.

Currently, we are a proud co-host of the 85th annual Mohawk Hudson Regional exhibition, along with Albany International Airport Gallery and the Albany Center Gallery. This year we saw a record breaking number of applications from visual artists and worked with three outstanding jurors. The show is a testament to the incredible talent in this region. And we are thrilled to kick off our Pop-up Beer Garden again, which features live music, local breweries and food trucks. It’s this dreamy combo of art, music, food and beer, neighbors and local community. Have we ever needed it more?

Editor’s Note: The 2021 POP UP Beer Garden and Neighborhood Block Party series is being held on three Fridays in September. This week’s event will feature Rare Form Brewing and Nine Pin Cider. For band and food partner info, check the Opalka Gallery website.

WEB: https://opalka.sage.edu/
FB: @OpalkaGallery
IG: @opalka_gallery

Cafe Euphoria: A Trans- Worker Owned Community Space in Troy

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I met up with the Cafe Euphoria team to hear about this exciting and groundbreaking space that is currently in development for downtown Troy, New York. Cafe Euphoria is a trans* worker owned and operated cafe / restaurant, curated thrift store, event and co-working space. CE’s aim is to cultivate a more gender-inclusive landscape in the Capital Region by encouraging folks to bring and nourish their whole selves.

I asked the Cafe Euphoria leadership team…

“Why is Cafe Euphoria important to you?”

Atsushi: General Manager and Co-Founder

“I’ve always been into creating community, and it was my thought, given the politics of the times, that the transgender community needed a safe space, and a place to gather and connect, like this one. I hope we succeed!”

Riley: IT Director and Co-Founder

“I can’t wait to open our space. I’m tired of cis people telling me how to express my gender. My coworker-owners and I are creating this as much for ourselves as we are for others.”

Tucker: Executive Chef

“Cafe Euphoria is a space where I can explore my craft and my identity. As someone who fell in love with food at a young age, it means the world to me that I can pursue this passion as my authentic self. Cafe Euphoria is the perfect place for me to prove myself and hopefully act as a role model for trans folks who want to work in the restaurant industry. I’m eager to put my skills to the test!”

Stevie: Kitchen Unit Manager

“I’ve thought for a long time that there should be safe spaces for queer and marginalized folk within the Capital Region that aren’t just bars. I’m excited to be providing that space served with tasty food!”

Robin: Development Director

“From the moment I heard about this project, I knew I had to be involved. In this moment of unparalleled visibility for the trans community — for good and ill — I can think of no worthier endeavor than creating a safe, affirming, joyful space for trans and gender non-conforming folx and our allies to find support, community, and solidarity (not to mention a cute outfit and a delicious meal!). I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this venture.”

Ryah: Finance Director

“As a Capital Region native, I fully believe forming a community for transgender and gnc (gender nonconforming) individuals is needed. I want to help create a space where every individual can discover themselves while feeling comfortable and safe.”

Rio: Programs Coordinator and Marketing Director

“Cafe Euphoria is important to me because of its potential to cultivate local trans/gnc community and celebratory visibility. When folks are welcomed to show up fully in their gender expression, everyone is extended the opportunity to heal and grow.”

EDITORS NOTE:  Opening FALL 2021.

Cafe Euphoria will have a table at our July 28th event in Troy, you can register for the event here. Make sure to drop by their table to meet the team, sign up for the mailing list and give support.

Connect with Cafe Euphoria on social:
WEB: www.cafeeuphoria.org
FB & IG: @cafeeuphoria518

LIVING ONLINE Series: Maria Brink, of In This Moment

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I met up with rock star and friend Maria Brink this week to talk about the current status of the music industry and what it has been like to be in nationally touring, Grammy-nominated band over the last year. Not going to lie, as a hairband 80’s metal head, this one hit close to my head banging heart!

So excited to be chatting with you Maria! You’re such an inspiration and force of nature. Can you tell us a little bit about you and your band?

We have been a band now almost 15 years. So, its been a while! We started in California. I moved in 2000 with my son Davion (Brink), he was a little boy then.  We had big dreams. It took about 5 years to get a band going and to finally find In This Moment. We definitely have grown over all these years, its been a big journey. We are now 7 albums in. Our last album was nominated for a Grammy for the song The In Between, which was one of the most rewarding experiences that we have had so far.

Since then we have toured the world and have been blessed to be able to play and collaborate with bands that we grew up listening to and loving including Ozzy Osbourne, Disturbed, 5 Finger Death Punch and Korn. We have played festivals with Metallica and I have done a song collaboration with Rob Halford of Judas Priest. We do a lot of touring. The beautiful thing has been to travel the world with my son. That is something that really shaped him and filled him with so much culture that has helped him to become who he is today.

Can you talk a little about your pre-Covid tour schedule? What was it like living a day in the life of a legit rock star?

A lot of work honestly! I am a big part of the creative force behind In This Moment. Not just the song writing and singing but also I conceptualize and direct the stage shows, the choreography and movement. I direct the music videos and even manage the social media. I am very hands on. It’s my baby and its my work. I do have many talented people who I work with around me to help take these things to the next level.

Honestly, when you get to a certain level you have to work with other people. Collaboration is great. We have an amazing crew, many who have been with us over 10 years. It’s a lot of work but when you get that 1.5 hours on stage, that’s the reward. Things go slow motion, you are in your passion. Where you realize that this is what I am meant to do. That’s the big reward.

You do need to balance that out though, to have a fulfilling life. Always balance to stay healthy.

How did Covid affect your band and touring crew?

It hit everyone hard, the whole world so hard. We were leaving for a 2.5 month tour the week of the lock down. Everyone was in shock. We took a dramatic financial hit. The crew was really affected. We all came to a halt. It was killing me to not be able to work and make money. I am a person who likes to create and hustle. I also am aware of how much the crew relies on us to make money, they rely on the business to get the hours in. And, I have such gratitude, excitement and hope that the world is opening back up and that we will be back on the road in September.

How did you keep your creative vision alive and focused during the lockdown?

In the beginning it was a lot harder. We all thought we were going to die. Is this the Walking Dead? The Apocalypse?! Ha ha! I didn’t know what was going on. I was glued to the t.v., which I normally don’t absorb myself in to the degree like I did in the early days of Covid.

Eventually, I realized that I needed to get creative again. I started playing my piano and writing again. I started building my focus in entrepreneurial areas. Normally I don’t get to concentrate on all of these things for uninterrupted periods of time as I am rarely home and so busy. There was a lot of blessings that happened with me, empowering myself and learning new things.

What’s in store for you now that restrictions are lifted and bookings are happening again?

We are going back on tour with Black Belt Brides doing a co-headliner. The show will also include Dead and Raven Black. This is a 2 month tour that starts in September. We are definitely excited to be back out there again. To see our fans, to connect with everyone and feel that energy. I feel these will be some of the most powerful and high energy shows we have ever had in our life. We have been pulled away and locked in. The beauty of these shows…you can dance, you can scream and you can cry. People are able to let it out at these shows and I think its going to be heightened this time around.

I really appreciate the space you hold as a women in a male dominated genre. How has the experience been for you? Any recommendations for young women who are inspired to get in the music scene?

You know, I have had an empowering career as a women. When I started there was not as many women in the genre. For me it helped, maybe gave me an advantage. I think sometimes when you have something unexpected, people like that. There have been a few things here and there but I don’t feel I have been held back. When it comes to work ethic and art I feel like its about the emotion, what you are creating. It’s about moving a soul and making someone feel something. My advice for young women or men would be to embrace your creative individuality. What makes you different? Allow your art in whatever form to evoke emotion in you and your audience. That’s where the true magic lies and where people are able to be touched. That and a hard work ethic. Keep going, keep going, keep going.

Anything special you would like to plug that you are excited about?

I have been working with my son Davion for a while now on a business that he has been wanting to manifest and bring to life. I am so proud to say that he is opening a new space, Etrice Gallery, in downtown Albany NY. The idea has been in planning for about 3 years now. My son is a visionary. He lights up a room. He is unique and rare and special. It’s not just because I am his mother! I see it all the time. His ideas are infectious.

To see the hard work pay off and bloom is gratifying. He is not putting caps on what it can be. It’s a creative art space with no rules. We are excited to see what will happen and how it develops as the business grows. Your all invited to the grand opening! It’s exciting to be bringing this energy back into Albany. This is where I started my music / creative career. And now to see him starting in the same place…I am appreciative of life.

Have a blessed day!

Editor’s Note:

The Etrice Gallery opening will be on Thursday, July 15 from 7:00 to 10:00 PM. The event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Etrice Gallery
70 North Pearl Street
Albany, New York 12207

For more info on Davion Brink and the vision for the gallery see my interview HERE.

Follow In This Moment on Instagram, here.

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