Rita Prater’s “Frankenstein’s Monster” is all cross stitch!
This guest blog article is by Lizzy Newsome.
It’s been a pretty bizarre year for the folks at Toy Joy, but this month it looks like some things are returning to normal. If you can call the artistic antics of this eclectic toy store normal. Just a couple months after relocating to the heart of downtown Austin, Toy Joy is returning to tradition with the return of their annual art show.
Originally started as a way to encourage the artistically minded store employees to display their works, the Toy Joy Art Show is now in its fifth year of pop culture themed display. Contributing artists have expanded to include former employees, customers, and outside artists of all experience levels. The show strives to be as visually fun as possible, seeking submissions that emphasize bright colors, unusual media, and kid-friendly themes over obscure concept and controversial imagery.
The show also prides itself on being inclusive. Not only are all varying levels of experience accepted, but all ages are encouraged to submit their art. If you purchase a piece from the show, do not be surprised if you find that the creator is still in middle school. On the other hand, many of the works included by adult artists are so fanciful in theme and execution as to be indistinguishable from those created by youngsters.
When viewing the Toy Joy Art Show, it is best to consider the works with a light heart. Stop by for an unusually fun art show, and you will not be disappointed.
Kermit and Miss Piggy steal a romantic moment in “Space Duet” by Faiza Ahmed
“Blue Panther” by Amber Kappes
The 5th Annual Toy Joy Art Show will be available to view at Violet Crown Cinema through September 18, 2013. Please visit during theater operating hours. Violet Crown Cinema is located at 434 W. 2nd Street in downtown Austin.
The Toy Joy Art Show runs every summer. If you are an artist seeking to contribute, bookmark Toy Joy’s website for next year. Submissions are typically requested several months before the show occurs.
Toy Joy Art Show at Violet Crown Cinema
Lizzy Jane Newsome is easily excited by large public gatherings or animals on the Internet. When she isn’t busy in her chosen career, you can find her feeding ducks. For more excitement, check out BriteShiny.com.
Disclaimer: Lizzy Newsome is highly involved in Toy Joy’s day to day operations, and thus may be biased toward the organization due to numerous toy bribes.
And, Toy Joy is right across the street from The Violet Crown!