How I Became an Art Thief

Ever want to post a nude online but fear future repercussions? Conceptual artist Andy Sewell has you covered-literally. At a recent exhibit of the artist’s work and collaborations at Petaluma’s Sonoma Coast Surf Shop, Sewell showcased his knitted, wearable digital pixelation garments for “When you want to fake that nude but not regret it later … cover your bits with BITS.” Sewell’s tableaux also included a piece of “found art” originally created by fellow artist Johnny Hirschmugl (otherwise branded as Art by Johnny), which Hirschmugl himself offhandedly said Sewell hoped would be stolen at the event. I obliged. I offer my confession here, publicly, to attest to having aided in closing (what I hope was) the conceptual loop as well as heading off any legal pursuits in the matter since stealing the painting was technically performance art. The piece is now on my bookshelf. If either artist wants it back, you know where to find me (on eBay).

* * *

Meanwhile: I have a vague memory of attending the Wine County Distillery Festival. I believe there were distilled spirits and a cocktail contest for which I and other media types served as judges. It stands to reason that somebody won-my congratulations to them. If anyone finds the brain cells I lost, please send them to me c/o of the Bohemian.

* * *