SOFA 2010, the premiere fine craft exhibition of the year

This year's edition of SOFA (Sculpture, Object, and Functional Art) was a bit smaller than last year but no less spectacular. An international collection of more than 60 galleries presented thousands of works, showcasing some of the best and brightest in the world of fine craft. This stunning display of unbridled creativity and exquisite craftsmanship is a testament to the power of the artistic mind.

The exhibit is focused on pieces in 3 dimensions. Glass, as it has for several years, dominates the show, but wood, ceramics, metal and fiber are all well represented.

It's one of those events that has to be seen to be appreciated. No manner of written description can prepare you for the overwhelming variety of unique works of art. It's your basic full frontal assault on your visual senses. It's definitely a contemporary showcase with the majority of pieces made within the last few years. There are often traditional elements involved but the emphasis is on modern design. Of course what's new and trendsetting now can reduced to hackneyed tired cliches in a few years, but by and large, SOFA offers pieces with staying power.

As has been noted in previous reviews, deep pockets come in very handy if you want to add to your collection. In general, the prices are supported by the quality and uniqueness of the work. Nothing here is mass produced. Some artists employ others to help with actual fabrication process, much the way artists of the past used apprentices. It still takes that special vision to make it work.

One thing I've noticed over the years of attending this show is the growth and maturity of many of the artists as they look to new horizons. Someone who stagnates and simply rehashes the same ideas won't last long in this rarified world. The smaller size of the show is an indication of how weak the economy still is. It's a very expensive financial risk for a gallery to exhibit at SOFA. It was, therefore, very heartening to see a lot of red dots on pieces, especially on more expensive ones, meaning they'd been sold. One can hope the number of attending galleries will start to grow again. And soon.

A special section was added this year, most probably a result of a smaller pool of galleries from which to choose. The Intuit Show of Outsider and Folk Art showcased pieces of a more rustic nature, often executed by artists with little or no formal training. It created an odd juxtaposition with the main body of galleries. Kind of like having a rodeo next to the ballet, Copland's "Billy the Kid" not withstanding. Each takes dedication, skill, and talent. This style of work is definitely legitimate, highly valued, and can be as profound and creative as any other art form, but it felt a little out of place.

More information about SOFA can be found at http://www.sofaexpo.com. The annual event is held in November at Navy Pier in Chicago. It's a most worthwhile way to spend an afternoon or better, a whole day. For a $15 admission you can see some things you've never seen before and maybe even bring out your inner artist. Next year it'll be held on Nov. 4-6 so mark your calendars now.

When Alan isn't prowling around at art shows, he makes incredibly beautiful, SOFA worthy (he thinks) sculpture at www.alancarterstudio.com.