Rising scene in Philly, the new LES?

hipsters, the art scene and bars accumlate in New York's Lower East Side but they aren't on the only ones cashing in on the art scene. Philly , many have speculated, is nearing this great acclaimed fame seen with the tenant to tourist living of LES. But most importantly both the LES and Philly reeling others into this culture, thriving with art. Yet, many feel these tourists are just signs of art communities giving into the commercial side. But lets look at the half full side of the glass, these tourists are hopefully leaving with a greater understanding and appreciation towards the art. The rising popularity associated which so communities (seen today in the recent NY Times article ) can be used to people’s eyes into this world of self-expression in which no limitations are placed and classical training is far from necessary Instead, this art world transcends to video, installation, clothing, music, collage etc. etc. Such innovation and reinventing of honored figures, movie stars and events can be seen in Karen Kilimnik’s exhibit at UPenn’s Institute of Contemporary Art. Her work as noted as scattered art revealing an inside look of the complexities of her own story told through various medias and props ‘ranging from fake snow and blood’. Check out Scattered Stories, Shaken and Stirred and for more info. I’m trying to make my way there soon myself and will keep you updated!

Here is a taste of her and of course I couldn’t leave out Brigitte Bardot, the origins of my own name.


"Brigittte Bardot Shopping in Shorts," 1985 Karen Kilimnik




"Steed leaving for costume party on deserted island - emma stays home to work," 2006 Karen Kilimnik