What is Visual Fringe?

Visual Fringe is the portion of the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival that consists of visual art. Like the theatre portion of the festival, Visual Fringe is uncensored and unjuried and 100% of the money made in art sales is given back to the artists.

Visual Fringe has been a part of the Fringe Festival since its beginning, taking up temporary residence in an empty storefront on Orange Avenue in its first year and later being hosted in OVAL (Orlando Visual Artists League) Gallery (now defunct) in downtown Orlando.

In recent years, the Visual Fringe has grown, partly due to a dedicated Visual Fringe Producer, partly from the fabulous support of the Fringe Producer, and partly because it has had a more permanent home, literally "hanging around" with the rest of the Fringe. Anything you see hanging on the walls or placed somewhere in the Orlando Shakespeare Theater - be it paintings, drawings, photographs, or sculptures - is part of Visual Fringe.

2011 will be another exciting year for Visual Fringe with all types of artwork being shown. The main focus of the Visual Fringe is to allow an outlet for artists to push beyond their normal medium, subject matter and comfort zone to bring true uniqueness to this exhibition.

We bring you the Visual Fringe for several reasons: While you're waiting in line for the fabulous Fringe shows, you have something lovely and sometimes thought-provoking to look at. We feature both emerging artists and well-known, established artists, mainly from Central Florida. This gives visibility to all of them and gives you a chance to see artwork you might not normally have access to. We also feature artists creating their work live while you watch, which is a great way for patrons and artists to interact. Feel free to ask questions and get to know your Orlando artists!

Patrons can purchase artwork, too! If you see something you like and would like to purchase it, go to a Visual Fringe volunteer at the Visual Fringe table (inside the patron's - or round - room inside the Orlando Shakespeare Theater) and let them know. They'll be easy to find by the sign on the table that reads: "Talk Art, Buy Art" and they'll be happy to help you out. If you are unable to locate one of these fabulous folks, then any Fringe volunteer will be able to help you. (Remember, 100% of money made goes back to the artists.)

Contact

For more information, email the Visual Fringe Producer, at visualfringe@orlandofringe.org.