Abdi is the winner!

I watched every episode like an addict. Work of Art: The Next Great Artist season finale aired last night, and my favorite artist won, Abdi. Modest, generous, and funny, he just seemed like he had so much talent that he was not even aware he had. I can't wait to see what his show is like at the Brooklyn Musuem of Art.

From the very first challenge, this portrait that he did of Ryan was stellar in my opinion. Even though he didn't win that challenge.

I also thought it was interesting that he seemed to be one of the only artist who thought out and sketched his ideas first on a consistent basis. At least from what I could tell anyway. But when he included his sketchbook in his final exhibit, one of the judges called it "too art school". Interesting.

I am now inspired to check out the work of the guest art judges. Which most of the contestants seem to know. I had never heard of any of them. I'll try to find some good links later.

Andres Serrano

Will Cotton

Jon Kessler

Ryan McGinness

Jonathan Santlofer

Richard Phillips

As I watched each episode, I couldn't help but think, "what would I have done?" "how would I have tackled each challenge?". I've seriously thought about challenging myself and actually attempt each one. Although-I think I'll give myself a little more time.

Here is the list:

1. Create a "portrait" of a competitor

2. Create a work from trash found in an electronics graveyard

3. Create a book cover of a classic novel

4. Create a piece of shock art

5. Create art inspired by a visit to the Audi showroom (the only commercially driven challenge as far as I can tell)

6. Work in a team to create an outdoor sculpture

7. Create a work that symbolizes your early inspiration to be an artist using only children's art supplies

8. Work with a partner to create work that expresses opposing words -man/woman, order/chaos, heaven/hell

9. Create a work inspired by nature, including something from nature in the piece

10. Create a final collection

Anyone want to join me?