An Amalgamation of Influence

Another major event in the UkwithNY festival was the Amalgamate exhibit held at the tres magnifique et chere new gallery in the very magnificent and expensive Asprey & Garrard store on Fifth Avenue. I spoke with curator of the exhibit, creative consultant Caroline Young, who was approached by M&C Saatchi when they were trying to find someone with vision and a connection to British artists.

Originally titled UKinNY, after September 11th the organizers changed the name to UKwithNY to show solidarity with NY. The festival and exhibit aim to bridge the connection with America and commissioned 90% of the work from British artists to produce pieces that reflect the influence NYC has had on them. Caroline's other requirement was that none of the pieces should have any element of shock value to them. This premise was set even before September 11th, but seemed even more important after the date of terrorist attacks on NY. She felt people didn't need their intelligence insulted with shocking art.

Among the creative artists who are a part of this exhibit are Brian Eno with a sound installation, Lulu Guiness with pocketbooks, Peter Saville-who is one of the most important graphic designers of the day and Nigel Coates. HRH Prince Andrew was at the exhibit opening on Monday night, October 15th, which drew over 300 people. HRH was also an early bird and was present the next morning at the Great Expectations opening on October 16th. Prince Andrew is definitely getting around, oui?! You should too!