Meeting Update

Hi Nameless Salon,

We had a productive meeting today. A few people had trouble finding us- we were in the back room. If you came and didn't find us, I'm sorry that we didn't get to see you! If we meet there again, look for us in the back room, just behind the counter.

We're well on the way to creating a glorious, collaborative, multimedia show. This show will be an opportunity to share your work, meet inspiring people, build a network of creative, active people and have fun. What more do you need? Well, if you're like me then you'll be pleased to know that there will also be opportunities to learn, and to have stimulating conversations with engaging people. There's really something for everyone!

The theme that we came up with for the show is exploitation (of people). We were discussing the distribution of wealth and resources, and the exploration of workers. We talked about how people are coerced into working in bad conditions, be it for fear of losing their health care here in the U.S. or for survival in many places. You're invited to interpret the theme in whatever way that inspires you.

Some people at the meeting were interested in showing the stark reality of exploitation, while others were interested in designing a Utopian vision of a future where no one is exploited. You're invited to join either camp, or to create some middle ground, a transformation or a series that covers the reality and the possibility.

You may choose to answer questions such as who is being exploited in the world? Who is exploited right here in the bay area? What is the impact of exploitation? Who is benefiting? Why doesn't it stop?

If you're in the transformation group: How would change occur? What is happening now, and what would be happening after the end of exploitation?

Or, if you're designing a Utopia: What would an end to exploitation look like? How would society be organized? How would ending all exploitation change our everyday lives? You might also create images, songs or writing that captures the feeling of the Utopia that you imagine.

We also discussed the idea of donations and sales. We decided to set up several donation options, with a description of the organization, to educate people about organizations that are working to bring about an end to exploitation. We also decided that artists should be able to sell work and may choose to donate some or all of the proceeds from sales.

As for spaces, we came up with two options: have a single show/ art party event at a gallery or have a walk between a number of smaller cafes and bars along a few blocks. We also talked about the possibility of incorporating this show with an established art walk or other large draw event. We're going to check out Submission, Cell Space 111 Minna and another space in the mission. If you know of a great space, call them up or if you're shy let us know and we'll call them. Also, if you know about art walks or other events that would draw a crowd, let us know.

We also discussed publicity. We would like to print small fliers or post cards. If you have printing connections, and can print a few fliers or cards, you will be very popular.

If you didn't make it to the meeting but would like to join the show then comment here, email salon.nameless@gmail.com, or comment on the meetup page.  

To everyone who came: great work! There was a lot of good thinking, conversation and energy. Thanks for being a part of it.