The Imaginary Line is an art exhibition that explores the idea of nation-dividing borders to understand the political, cultural, and sociological issues that arise from these boundaries, as well as explores borders as intangible delineations that can exist within the individual. It is a multi-venue, collaborative exhibition that will take place at Buffalo Arts Studio, El Museo and Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center.

Buffalo Arts Studio will feature the work of the following artists from across North America: Peter Dykhius, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Paula Braswell, American born, now living in Toronto, Ontario; Shelley Niro, Brantford, Ontario, a member of the Six Nations, Mowhawk, Turtle Clan; and Leandro Soto, Cuban born, living in Arizona. Curated by Buffalo Arts Studio curator Brooke Fitzpatrick.

A public reception takes place tonight. The exhibition can be seen May 17 through August 9, 2008.

Tonight marks the opening reception of an exhibition of the internationally recognized photographer Ellen Carey, who will present color photographs made with the large format Polaroid 20 X 24 camera located in New York City, one of five in the world.

Carey creates images that are one-of-a-kind using the Polaroid one-step; peel away process that develops in a mere 60 seconds. It produces a positive, along with its negative (the artist often shows both), making pictures that are simultaneously photographic/process and abstract/minimal. These artworks she calls “Pulls,” her term since 1996 upon its discovery, echoes the physical activity of making these pictures.

Picture Nothing introduces an aporia, much like Shakespeare’s “To Be or Not To Be”--- these pictures are of something, but what? Her artworks raise questions about content,” What is it a picture of?” and process” How was it made?” challenging our cultural and historical expectation around images to describe, record and document. With the advances of digital imaging technology eclipsing hands-on processes, it also references the artist’s life in making photographs for over thirty years as well as the rich legacy of photography, often seen through picture magazines, such as Life and Aperture.

Pictured: Pull Nos. 68, 69, 70

Tonight's closing reception for Jonathan Rogers Comedy Hour #4 by Jonathan Rogers features a 4-D art and music performance.

Hallwalls' Artists and Models art party has come to signify all that's cutting-edge & dynamic in the Buffalo arts scene and this year's event, Artists and Models: Unhinged is the must-attend event of 2008. After a three-year hiatus, Artists and Models returned in 2007—an event so successful that audiences & artists are still talking about it nearly a year later.

This year, Artists and Models: Unhinged is going to be a veritable feast for the senses with 33 original art installations, live music by Crittenden, DJ Ceiba, London vs. New York, and Eye Candy Burlesque show on the main stage with David Butler as the Master of Ceremonies. The Reactionary Ensemble room (video and live music), and The Fractal Project will have a DJ/VJ room, local and craft beer selections and great wine, locally-based food vendors Sonoma Grille and Ike's BBQ, and much more.

Please join the Coordinating Council of Advancing Arts and Culture (AAC) for an inaugural event for the arts and cultural organizations of Western New York and Southern Ontario. Meet the region's technical service providers in an "open house" setting and learn more about their services and programs. Enjoy a reception and network with your arts and cultural sector colleagues and the resource providers.

To register to attend, please contact Florine Luhr, AAC, at 716.512.5267 by May 15, with the names of the individuals from your organization who will attend the Showcase.

The RJW Retrospect Show is what Native Buffalonian, watercolorist Robert J. Witzel, did with 85 of 90 years in art. Includes pieces from childhood, Bennet High School, Pratt Art Institute, early apprenticeships, World War II, lifetime of employment, watercolors from the travels, arts, sports, and includes current works for sale.

Tonight's opening reception also serves as a celebration of Bob's 90th birthday.

Pictured: Girl Talk

Join the excitement as famous works of art come to life at the twelfth annual Art Alive: A Walking-Talking Art Contest, sponsored by the Junior Group of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Each year, Art Alive attracts dozens of contestants and hundreds of spectators. All gather to learn about art, to relax, and enjoy the fun as participants compete for more than $1000 in cash prizes.

Entrants reproduce art works in the most creative ways, some spending several months preparing their tableaux. The final interpretations are often amazing compilations of people, props, and even music. Contestants range from elementary and high school students to business people, family groups, artists, and Gallery volunteers. Applicants thus far include groups from Lancaster High School, Frontier High School, and Buffalo Seminary.

Throughout the afternoon four judges including Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, Buffalo Bills right guard Brad Butler, Linda Soltis of BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York and artist A.J. Fries will award points to the artists based on degree of difficulty, creativity, interpretation of original piece, quality, and overall impression.

The Imaginary Line is an art exhibition that explores the idea of nation-dividing borders to understand the political, cultural, and sociological issues that arise from these boundaries, as well as explores borders as intangible delineations that can exist within the individual. It is a multi-venue, collaborative exhibition that will take place at Buffalo Arts Studio, El Museo and Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center.

El Museo will feature Border Film Project, which includes photographs taken by the Mexican migrant workers and American minute-men on either side of the U.S./Mexico border. Border Film Project was recently exhibited at, among other places, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Harvard University Law School, New York University, and Comision Nacional de Derechos Humanos in Mexico City. Curated by Buffalo Arts Studio curator Brooke Fitzpatrick .

A public reception takes place tonight. The exhibition can be seen May 30 through July 22, 2008.