Many people, including love the look of old things. We love to furnish our homes with some old furniture and different nick knacks that have come from a different era. Many of these things are antiques while many are just old looking. There come a fashion to decorate our homes with older looking furniture. Many manufacturers make modern furniture that look like antiques but in fact are not.

This is a cheaper way for people to have the look without the spending more. Of course they also miss out on the history that goes with the original piece. But for many it is an option that we welcome. Many of my original antiques are things that have been handed down through the generations of my family. These things I really treasure.
duie to their craftsmanship and of course for their sentimental value. It is such a shame to think that so many antiques have been thrown out or destroyed over time because they were old and not fashionable any more.

If you are someone who really loves the original product whether it be furniture, cars, glass wear, dolls and so on and you want to purchase some then you should know a little bit about antiques. Just because something looks old and you love it does not mean it is worthy of an expensive antique price tag.

Of course, in the end if you’ve got the money and that is what you want then price doesn’t really matter but generally for the average person you should only pay what the product is truly worth. Especially if you want this product as an investment as many collectors do.

You need to learn about things such as certain markings or numbers to look for on some antiques. It is a way of knowing that they are original. It’s sad to think that there are also many remakes that are being sold as the originals when they are really just excellent copies. That is why it is important to learn a few things.

Ask around to find an antique dealer that has a good reputation. Then go and talk to him or her about what you are interested in. They can be a great source of information. There are also many good books that will be very helpful and educational. Once you arm yourself with this knowledge then you can start shopping with confidence.

REDCAT announced today that Clara Kim, who has been the acting Gallery Director/Curator of REDCAT since Eungie Joo left in July 2007, has been appointed the job permanently.

As Director/Curator, Ms. Kim will build upon the foundations that have defined the visual arts programming at REDCAT: the production of newly commissioned work by local and international artists who challenge the norms of mainstream practices, the publication of important first monographs for emerging and mid-career artists, and the ongoing presentation of Asian and Latin America artists.

“Ms. Kim is uniquely qualified to direct and curate the REDCAT Gallery,” said CalArts President Steven D. Lavine. She is committed to supporting emerging and under recognized artists and has built strong relationships with colleagues throughout Latin America and Asia as well as in Europe, and the United States. Her recent research grant from the Asian Cultural Council for travel to China, Korea and Japan will allow her to deepen further her Asian connections and knowledge.”

At the gallery Kim has curated the current exhibition Haegue Yang: Asymmetric Equality and Dave McKenzie: Screen Doors on Submarines as well as Truth: Choi Jeong Hwa and Renata Lucas: Fahla (2007), Snake River: Charles Gaines & Edgar Arceneaux (2006) and WHITE NOISE (2005). Upcoming projects include John Bock (Berlin), Atelier Bow-Wow (Tokyo), Walid Raad (Lebanese/New York), Olga Koumoundouros (Los Angeles), and Abraham Cruzvillegas (Mexican).

Congrats!

Photo: Scott Groller