The Fort project has always been reliant on strong working relationships, understanding and goodwill between all parties in order to fully succeed.  Alongside all the wonderful inspiration and creative pursuits hosted through The Fort complex (Bell Bros building), over the past 6 months or so, the level of litigation, rent dodgers, building issues, fines and new rules – including The Fort sign being removed – have and made it difficult for us to maintain our vision for a productive, collaborative and unique creative complex.

After much debate and expensive legal battles it has become clear that we need to move our project out of the Bell Bros. building which has been hosting “The Fort” since November 2008.

The Fort was always an ambitious project but the challenges we have had to overcome – in particular those we have not been able to – have put an incredible strain on us personally and professionally.  Rather than pursuing the fantastic creative projects we have become known for, we, The Fort’s volunteer Directors, have been spending most of our time fighting battles to “save The Fort” with no foreseeable end.  As a result, our own creative endeavours and livelihoods have suffered.  The success of the August 2010 fundraiser (thank you Brisbane!!) helped hugely with rent arrears (including those of certain “artful dodgers”) and with other important equipment and services to keep The Fort operational, but unfortunately now we are facing such constraints and an overall change in attitude towards the project by important stakeholders which, sadly, no amount of money can help us overcome.

While we have decided to seek more suitable premises to pursue our objectives (also below) we will continue to facilitate creative projects, and we are in the process of starting up an online gallery.  And although we are moving out (a lengthy and expensive process) some of our creative partners will stay in the Bell Bros. building including Rehab Records (record store) so we hope you will continue supporting their fantastic work!

On behalf of the The Fort we thank you so much for your incredible support over the years, and your understanding during these hard times.

Stay awesome!

Pete Gorrie & Kelly Timmons
Directors
The Fort Arts Hub Ltd.

The Fort Arts Hub Ltd. was established for the public charitable purpose to:

Level 3, 57 Brunswick Street Fortitude Valley (The Fort)

28 October – 25 November 2010

Weekdays 1pm – 6pm ; Weekends 11am-4pm

enquiries [Email address: enquiries #AT# thefort.org.au - replace #AT# with @ ]

From 28 October The Fort Arts Hub will host the highly anticipated exhibition of new works by Brisbane-based, internationally acclaimed artist and illustrator Maryanne Oliver and New York street-artist Avone (of Brooklyn’s ‘Destroy & Rebuild’). Each work is a collaboration between the two very different, yet perfectly complementary artists who met and began their unique partnership when Maryanne was in New York earlier this year.  Maryanne has been back in Brooklyn for the month of September to finish the dynamic body of work.

In between her trips to New York Maryanne has been keeping very busy, recently showing in “Swoon Gallery” – a huge online gallery which works with prominent artists and arranges ‘pop up’ shops all over Los Angeles, and also showing at “That Gallery” in Hong Kong, both in August this year.  Maryanne is a regular featured illustrator for Amelia Magazine (UK) and earlier this year illustrated designs for Bryce Aime, Andrew Majtenyi, Belle Sauvage and Charlie Le Mindu shows as part of London Fashion Week.  Maryanne’s most recent Brisbane exhibitions were in 2008 at Joshua Levi Gallery and as a 12-month artist-in-residence at RAW Gallery.  From 2006 – 2009 Maryanne’s work hung in the exclusive ‘Tiffany Jones Fine Art’ in Buderim, alongside distinguished Australian artists such as Pro Hart, Norman Lindsey and Maragret Olley.

Maryanne’s aim is simply “making beautiful” and one need only glimpse her beautiful work to see this desire fully realised.  The playful energy of her evocative female characters and (often) their feline companions leaps from each of her stunning pieces.  She draws inspiration from happiness, strength, and seeing beyond the ordinary and it is this powerful, consistent style and energy that continues to see her fan base grow all over the world.

Avone (pronounced A-V-one) of Destroy & Rebuild Crew, who’s distinctive, often imitated, masterfully detailed work is hand crafted using a variety of mediums including photography, paints, illustrations, oxidation and collage.  Avone’s style was conceptualized in 2006 while incarcerated for the art work which heavily influences the style he is now famous for.

The two artists, who have admired each other’s work from opposite sides of the world for some time, began the collaborating in 2009 and have been blown away by the quality of the shared works and big response from their fans.

“Neither of us had any idea how well we were going to work together, yet when we did it just flowed and came together without issues or conflict.  Sometimes we would just paint for 10 hours and say nothing, creating these pieces that would just fall beautifully in to place. I can’t wait to share this work with my hometown Brisbane, and The Fort is the perfect place to showcase it.” Maryanne says.

Maryanne will spend September with Avone in NYC to complete this exciting body of work before returning to Brisbane for the big opening on 28 October.  The ‘Brooklyn-Queensland Expressway’ Exhibition opens on 28 October at 6pm and will run at The Fort Arts Hub as part of the BARI (Brisbane Artist Run Initiatives) Festival until Thursday 25 November 2010.

See also:

www.maryanneoliver.carbonmade.com

BQE Photo Gallery (Facebook)

www.destroyandrebuildnyc.com

www.swoongallery.com

www.fashionarium.com

www.carlalovesphotography.blogspot.com/2009/06/inspiring-people-artist-and-illustrator.html

http://rbgmagazine.com/destroy-rebuild/

High resolution images associated with The BQE Exhibition are available on request.

On Saturday 28 August  The Fort will host a massive ‘fun raising extravaganza’ spanning the entire 3-floors of the dynamic Brunswick Street complex and featuring an art exhibition and  auction, stand-up comedy, live music, live art, markets, giveaways and more!

The fun kicks-off at 6pm with night markets in The Fort’s vibrant car park and an art exhibition and preview in the gallery, followed by an auction hosted by 97.3 breakfast radio host and veteran of the national comedy circuit, Terry Hansen.   Up for auction are one-off pieces generously donated by some of Brisbane’s most highly regarded contemporary artists including Anthony Lister, Sofles, Shida, Maryanne Oliver, Braidy Hughes, Anthony Jigalin and loads more.  The auction is the perfect opportunity to bid for a piece of first-class Brisbane art and an opportunity for art collectors and appreciators to come together and support this valuable community arts project.

At 8pm ‘Room 8’ performance space will light-up with an impressive line-up of live music featuring hip hop heavyweights The Optimen, and beatbox champ Tom Thum (recently returned from a huge European tour), plus super-group Dubmarine (also just back from Europe), The Kelly Gang (ft. Coalition Crew), Tailormade, Kryptamystik and DJs Rola De and Sean Warner.

The massive event will be the second major fundraising extravaganza for the non-profit group who, following the success of their memorable launch in April last year, aim to raise much needed funds for The Fort’s highly regarded art gallery and studios, as well as providing an important injection into other creative spaces, facilities, and services within The Fort complex.

“Government has tended to overlook the less glamorous, raw culture of Brisbane which many know encourages great artistic endeavour.  Artists and art lovers understand this, and it’s these people that support The Fort and provide for its existence.  If we are to see cultural innovation thrive in this city, and keep up with other contemporary world cities, then places like The Fort need to survive and thrive. This event is the perfect opportunity for the broader community to support and connect with Brisbane’s friendly, dynamic inner-city arts community.” Director of The Fort Arts Hub Ltd., Kelly Timmons says.

Co-founder Pete Gorrie said “The Fort is a million dollar project built on a shoestring. It’s a fantastic example of the grass roots creativity, passion, community-spirit and genuine love for Brisbane and the culture which exists through its artists. We’ve received less than $1000 funding since operation and The Fort has already facilitated more than 100 successful exhibitions and performances.”

The Fort Arts Hub Ltd., in collaboration with the generous, talented artists who will donate their time and talents to the celebrations, are very excited to offer their valued supporters an unmissable night of inspired entertainment and raw local culture within the fun, positive environment of Brisbane’s – arguably Australia’s – largest independent centre for the arts.   For more information at www.thefort.org.au.

WHAT: Support The Fort #2
WHERE: The Fort Arts Hub, 57 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley
WHEN: Saturday 28 August, 6pm – midnight
TICKETS: $15 or $10 members. 18+ event
RSVP / ENQUIRIES: enquiries [Email address: enquiries #AT# thefort.org.au - replace #AT# with @ ]

PROGRAM

[Email address: enquiries #AT# thefort.org.au - replace #AT# with @ ]

PRESS RELEASE: TRUTH JUICE [SCREENINGS]

Launch Friday August 20 – 7.30pm to Midnight

Truth Juice [Screenings] is a fortnightly event showcasing ‘non-mainstream’ information in the form of Video Documentaries on topics such as: New World Order, 911, Big Pharma, Spirituality, Secret Societies/Illuminati, Esotericism, Politics, Wars, Social Justice and other topics of relevance. We are of no particular political, religious or spiritual belief system, more-so, we strive to keep objective thought of paramount importance. We are a non-profit collective of like-minded truth seekers who aim to provide an environment where free thought and expression may be demonstrated while learning from regular screenings of films and documentaries.

Our new venue is Room 8 @ The Fort Arts Hub in the vibrant Fortitude Valley district.  There will be seating for 100 people with plenty of standing room.  The room boast an unlicensed bar with snacks, good PA System and large projection screen for the screenings.

The film we will be screening is Invisible Empire – the New World Order Redefined, by Jason Bermas. This documentary sets out to do just that, define the term “New World Order” and shed light on the power elite, their agenda, and there modes of operation. It is a no holds barred look into the real power structure that the mainstream media refuses to discuss and is a part of.

Following the screening, there will be live Musical entertainment from Brisbanes Coalition Crew and Punk Rock Band The Snatch.

We welcome people from all walks of life to join us, whether you are curious as to what goes on behind the scenes of our perceived reality, spiritual, sceptical or just looking to meet with people for some interesting viewing and discussion, Truth Juice is essentially for anyone in this world.

Launch Night: Friday August 20 – 7.30pm to Midnight.

Location: ‘Room 8′ @  The Fort, 57 Brunswick St. Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Film Screening: Invisible Empire – the New World Order Redefined, by Jason Bermas.

BYO 18+ Event

$10 entry fee, going to the venue.

Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/truthjuice.brisbane

Contact: truthjuice [Email address: truthjuice #AT# hotmail.com.au - replace #AT# with @ ] Ph: Ben X – 0450 282 559

The District 9 Exhibition is a collaborative showcase of exceptional new works by Brisbane’s most prolific graffiti artist Sofles and fine artist Fintan Magee.  On Saturday 17 July the pair will stage an unprecedented 2-storey, multi-space exhibition at The Fort Arts Hub in Fortitude Valley, spanning the walls of the centre’s ground level art gallery and penthouse artist studios, infamously known as “District 9”.

The one-off, one-night-only instillation throughout the entire top floor of The Fort will double as a farewell celebration for the space which, until recently, hosted Fintan and Sofles’ art studios.  The pair, who shared the studios with three other artists for the past 12-months, will pack up their paint and easels and transform the space into a unique gallery environment that offers up a rare and exciting glimpse into the productive exploits of their creative spaces.

“It’s been inspiring seeing the space empty again, like a fresh canvas.  There are different rooms on the top floor, as well as the gallery spaces, which will all have different themes” Fintan said.

While the upstairs component of the exhibition is only for opening night, the works will overflow into the gallery for a full two-week stint, open to the public every day until Thursday 29 July.   The creative duo have been busily preparing new work to make the most of the extensive wall space and meet their fast approaching deadline.

Sofles, who was labeled a ‘Graffiti King’ by local newspapers, TV news & current affairs following a conviction for illegal graffiti in 2009, is looking forward to showcasing a new style that he has been developing over the past year through extensive work on commissioned murals, works on canvas and tattooing.   Having turned over a new leaf, he continues to work hard to raise revenue through his blossoming art career to help pay off the nearly $15,000 he was fined.

In the past year Sofles has won a slew of competitions and been commissioned by corporate giants like Myer, Footlocker, Adidas, Tooheys, Super Cheap Auto and more – proving not only his worth as an artist, but also the undeniable popularity for graffiti as an art form in general.   Recently Sofles was commissioned to paint a wall outside of Brisbane’s Magistrates Court – the same court house in which he was recently trialed and convicted for illegal graffiti.

“It’s funny how one day you’re in court getting fined for writing your name and soon after they pay you to write your name on their court house to make it look nice” mused Sofles.

International muralist and highly-regarded fine artist Fintan Magee, whose creative output follows a more “traditional” path, has worked on large scale commissions in London, Rotterdam, Vienna and Brisbane and has showed in various group and solo exhibitions and competitions across Australia.  He has a B.A in Fine Arts and currently works as a designer and illustrator, as well as regular commissioned artworks and public murals.   For this exhibition Fintan presents oil on linen paintings, digital prints and installation work.

Fintan describes his new work as “a visual circus of scattered imagery and styles, drawing inspiration from advertising, nature, street culture and local architecture.  My new paintings aim to transport the viewer beyond mundane routines and expectations, into a world of unexpected beauty and chaotic balance, highlighting the extraordinary nature of our everyday existence” he said.

The Fort invites you to soak up the hype surrounding these two well travelled and seasoned local artists, and share in the transition from their inspiring creative space and colourful period of inspired creativity, with an exclusive peek at their profound new works.

BYO (donation entry)

Special guest DJs Rola D & Potato Master (plus more to be announced)

WHEN: Opening Night Saturday 17 July 2010, 6 – 10pm, donation entry (BYO) (catering, non-alcoholic beverages supplied)

EXHIBITION DATES: Saturday 17 July – Thursday 29 July

WHERE: The Fort Arts Hub, 57 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley

See also:

www.sofles.com

www.fintanmagee.com

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=134929553203867

Sofles.com

Fintanmagee.com

MEDIA RELEASE

Mini Masterpiece Exhibition

Over 100 miniature canvases from 40+ local & International artists

Big names and small artworks make up this bite-sized collection debuting to the public at Brisbane’s cutting edge artist-run space The Fort Arts Hub in Fortitude Valley from 11 – 23 June 2010.

With a huge line up of artists working on tiny canvases, the mini masterpieces show promises to be a lot of fun and an absolute eye-full for observers in what is sure to be one of the largest mini exhibition Brisbane has ever seen.

Curator & displaying artist Yuin Huz has spent the past few months spreading the word and extending invitation to dozens of top-shelf artists of all styles and backgrounds to participate in this novel show.

“It’s about bringing artists together and giving them an opportunity to showcase their talent, which is what The Fort’s all about” Yuin Huz says,

“Many of the artists were expecting to paint to a particular theme, but I think as long it’s on a miniature canvas on a tiny little easel it will fit with the rest of the work. That is the theme!”

“I try to think up creative, unusual themes for each show I curate. Although it’s been a lot of work to coordinate, the mini masterpieces show seemed like a great way to bring together and expose a whole host of emerging talent alongside established artists. It also gives art buyers the opportunity to snap up amazing pieces for under $100.”

The Mini Masterpieces exhibition features a great diversity of emerging artists as well as rising stars like Steve Bowerman, Shida, Sofles, Georg, Saikoe, RudeKat, Guido, Carmen Olsen, Benny Gloucester and many, many others.

More information email art [Email address: art #AT# thefort.org.au - replace #AT# with @ ]

Tuesday 01 June 2010 doors open 5:30pm

This is an all ages event. * Intoxicated persons will not be admitted * No thongs or steel cap boots * The venue reserves the right to refuse admission to any person * Dangerous behaviour including Crowd Surfing, Stage Diving, Moshing and Violent Dancing is not allowed and will result in your immediate removal from this venue.

Tickets selling fast from

www.moshtix.com.au