When Edward Bulwer-Lytton coined the phrase, “the pen is mightier than the sword,” he likely didn’t have the Sharpie Magnum in mind, much less its use in Sioux Falls’ own Battle for the Arts. Intended as a witty turn-of phrase, “the pen is mightier than the sword” has taken on new meaning where a Sharpie Magnum is the weapon of choice. With a keen eye, a skilled hand and a time limit, artists are wielding the mighty maker for victory in Sioux Falls own Battle for the Arts.
Currently in it’s second season, Battle for the Arts began in January 2010, the brainchild of local artist Micah Luke. The first Battle for the Arts took place with approximately a dozen people braving a blizzard to see what all the excitement was about. By the third battle, Luke was turning artists away, with the biggest battles attracting …show more content…
“This year people cheer more for good art versus people they know,” Luke noted.
While Battle for the Arts was created as a fun event to bring art to the masses, many of the artists have taken it to the next level, even creating practice boards at home to prepare. All artists can apply. Luke said exhibition battle spots are available. The application process involves submitting a portfolio for review.
Finished pieces are stored until the end of the season. Last year the pieces were auctioned with proceeds going to the Sioux Empire Arts Council. Battle organizers have not decided if this years pieces will be auctioned or donated for charity purposes. By the end of the season Luke estimates they will have 50-60 pieces.
Luke has been developing the idea of Battle for the arts for more than ten years. He kept searching for the right venue, as well as the right time. He didn’t expect people to take it as seriously as they have. He hopes to expand Battle for the Arts into chapters and eventually leagues throughout the
Currently in it’s second season, Battle for the Arts began in January 2010, the brainchild of local artist Micah Luke. The first Battle for the Arts took place with approximately a dozen people braving a blizzard to see what all the excitement was about. By the third battle, Luke was turning artists away, with the biggest battles attracting …show more content…
“This year people cheer more for good art versus people they know,” Luke noted.
While Battle for the Arts was created as a fun event to bring art to the masses, many of the artists have taken it to the next level, even creating practice boards at home to prepare. All artists can apply. Luke said exhibition battle spots are available. The application process involves submitting a portfolio for review.
Finished pieces are stored until the end of the season. Last year the pieces were auctioned with proceeds going to the Sioux Empire Arts Council. Battle organizers have not decided if this years pieces will be auctioned or donated for charity purposes. By the end of the season Luke estimates they will have 50-60 pieces.
Luke has been developing the idea of Battle for the arts for more than ten years. He kept searching for the right venue, as well as the right time. He didn’t expect people to take it as seriously as they have. He hopes to expand Battle for the Arts into chapters and eventually leagues throughout the