Critical MASS 8 Performing Arts Showcase

Critical MASS 8 Performing Arts Showcase

Critical MASS 8 Performing Arts Showcase
Performing Arts Showcase at the Central ARTSTATION

Critical Mass 8 performing arts showcase will kick off the weekend of Critical MASS with performances from musical, storytelling, poetry reading and other performances along with the Critic’s choice in Best in Show.

The event is the anchor of the organization’s critic’s series. Renown national art critics will travel to Shreveport to review and critique the pieces, ultimately naming the Best in Show for visual and literary categories.

“The first part is for all of the Ark-La-Tex to see the strength of all of the artists in northwest Louisiana in one space and for those artists to receive critical review,” said executive director Pam Atchison.

The second goal is to present the artists with the opportunity to have a conversation about the work that’s designed to help them expand their reach outside of the region, Atchison said. Some past winners and participants of the critic’s series have increased national sales and exhibition shows.

Critical Mass was formed with a mission of offering constructive critiques to area artists that could be used to further their skills and professional careers as artists. By inviting out-of-town art professionals, it ensures bias-free feedback, Atchison said.

The winners will receive a $2,000 prize to use toward producing their solo exhibition or presentation later in the year. Their professional critiques will be published in 318 Forum and The Shreveport Times.

The annual competitive series further works to mold, guide and reinforce the artists’ skills and merits and offer the encouragement needed for them to continue their path.

“It’s beneficial for people who are artists developing their talent and developing in their career,” says Marketing Director, Casey Jones. “This truly is a encapsulated development moment for artists who are truly interested in being professional artists.”