We spoke with Samuel Flax, Manager of Sam Flaxx art and design supplies (Website) at 1800 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, about the new mural walls that went up this weekend on one large side of the store.
The mural walls were an idea of the staff. The artists were chosen after a call to artists was sent out. 50 submissions were received, 100% from local artists. The finalists were selected by the Sam Flaxx staff.
The benefit for the store is that it gives it a chance to promote local artists and give them a chance to express themselves. One artist selected said it was the very first time he had the opportunity to do a mural with no prior restrictions given.
And indeed, Sam Flaxx placed no restrictions on content of the submissions. Artists could submit whatever they like.
The artists chosen to appear on the mural walls were paid a fee, the amount of which Flax would not reveal.
Along with exposure from being on the walls and the payment, artists' received exposure from Flax when prints of their work were displayed during the large First Thursdays event at Orlando Museum of Art. During the event, artists were present, mingling with the guests. From that event alone, some of the artists received commissioned (paid) work projects.
The first time Flax did the art walls was four years ago. He feels, based on feedback from the artists, that the next change-over will come sooner. Some artists suggested to him that he do it once year. He is considering that and a 2 year plan. He hasn't decided yet.
The public can buy small prints of each of the murals at the store. Prices:
- 11x14 costs $15.95
- 16x20 costs $25.95
