The Otesha Project

Bikes are the world’s most fun, accessible way to get around. Posters are the world’s most fun, accessible art form. ARTCRANK brings them together.

We had a chat with Chris Verbick who will tell us a bit more about this thing called ArtCrank London.

Who are you and how are you involved with ArtCrank?

My name is Chris Verbick. I’ve spent many, many hours in print shops of all shapes and sizes but currently I’m living and studying in London after spending my entire life in the United States. I became involved with ARTCRANK as an artist in the 2008 and 2009 shows in Minneapolis, MN. When I knew that I would be relocating to London, I knew that ARTCRANK should come along for the ride.

Can you tell us a little bit about the history of ArtCrank?

ARTCRANK started in Minneapolis in the USA in 2007. Minneapolis was recently declared the “Best Biking City in America” so it’s no surprise that a wonderful event like ARTCRANK would have its roots in the modest Midwest metropolis. What started as the brainchild of a local creative professional and cyclist soon became a show that has expanded to 6 cities in North America. London will be the first international ARTCRANK exhibition and we couldn’t be more excited about it.

Why should we attend the opening?

ARTCRANK appeals to anyone that enjoys cycling as a pastime and as a mode of transportation. It’s also a celebration of art and local artists as well as the community in general. Like art? Like fun? Like bikes? If so, you’ll like ARTCRANK.

You should come to the opening for these reasons but you should also come to the show so you can take something home with you (or so we hope). Yes, besides fond memories of the event, you’ll have the opportunity to take a wonderful piece of art home for £20 or less to be enjoyed for many years to come.

Favourite posters from previous ArtCrank artists?

This is a difficult question as there have been many. One of my favorites from the first show in 2007 was the piece by Twin Six entitled “Til Death Do Us Part”. It was the first ARTCRANK poster I bought. There was a piece called “High Stakes” by Brian Hartley Sago in the 2008 Minneapolis show that was really fantastic. Again, there are far too many.

Top tips for ArtCrank?

Pick your prints and get to the buying queue as soon as you can. We do encourage people to stick around and have a drink and a chat during the show but posters do sell out and it would be a shame to miss out!

Here’s a sneak peek into ArtCrank London posters:

http://whatwouldpeterdo.tumblr.com/post/1091028424

http://dribbble.com/shots/52775

http://www.matttaylor.co.uk/blog/?p=430

The first-ever London show features original artwork by UK artists, priced to let you put down a pint or three and still take home all your favorite posters.  More info can be found at http://www.artcrankpostershow.com/london. Some proceeds will be donated to the Otesha Project.

ArtCrank London Opening: Friday 17 September, 7pm-late at Look Mum No Hands, continuing on Saturday 18 September, Noon-6pm

See you there!