BEYOND THE STUDIO: WHALE & STAR
The work of Enrique Martínez Celaya comes from and goes to a broader realm
than the world of art or culture, and it is through Whale & Star, which is
both the name of his studio and an evolving idea of social and intellectual
interaction, he develops a practice different in nature and aim from the
increasingly familiar notion of the studio as an art factory. While his
studio is reminiscent of a scientific laboratory or a monastery in its
scale, intensity, and contemplative atmosphere, for him
reflection is not enough. There must also be action, and action, in addition
to guiding choices in the studio, means being responsive to the social and
educational needs beyond the studio.
At present, Whale & Star has an internationally recognized imprint; hosts a week of critiques intended for both emerging and mid-career artists; maintains a project of public lectures by art historians, critics, and philosophers; hosts several working visits each year for poor and at-risk children; keeps a modest residency and intern program; and offers a few scholarships to important educational institutions. In addition, selections from the Martínez Celaya Family Collection are on view, which along with the archive and library, provide a framework for visitors and become a resource for those interested in exploring art’s relationship to literature, philosophy, science and ethics.
Below you can find additional information about Martínez Celaya’s efforts as well as list of advisors and of those patrons whose contributions have assisted Whale & Star.
WHALE & STAR PRESS
An important aspect of the studio’s involvement with the community is Whale & Star Press, our internationally recognized imprint, that publishes books in art, poetry, art practice, and critical theory through five different series: Artists and Writers, Working Book, Monographs, Whale, and Editions. Our books and limited editions are found in bookstores, libraries, schools, universities, and museums throughout the world and are distributed nationally and internationally by the University of Nebraska Press. To learn more visit whaleandstarpress.com.
EDUCATION
Motivated by Enrique Martínez Celaya’s belief in the privilege of teaching, we offer opportunities to study at Whale & Star, art programs for poor and at-risk children, public lectures, and scholarships.
Study at Whale & Star
Whale & Star offers highly selective internships, apprenticeships, and residencies. A two bedroom furnished apartment on site is available to those studying at Whale & Star. For additional information write to info@whaleandstar.com.
The Summer Program
The Summer Program, which is affiliated with the Anderson Ranch Arts Center, offers emerging to mid-career artists a unique opportunity to be immersed in an intense week of critiques and discussions within the rigorous framework of Whale & Star. To learn more about The Summer Program visit thesummerprogram.ws.
The Lecture Project
Whale & Star brings prominent writers, art historians, artists, and philosophers to present a public lecture for our community. To learn more about The Lecture Project visit thelectureproject.com.
Art for Children
Several times a year we invite children, with emphasis on those who are poor or at-risk, to participate in an activity we design for them. In the past, we have also provided space and resources for organizations working with children and the arts.
Scholarships
The studio of Enrique Martínez Celaya provides two need-based grants for artists who otherwise could not attend The Summer Program. In addition, we offer a scholarship to a student from the University of California, Santa Barbara to attend the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, and one grant to a University of Nebraska student to attend a workshop at the Anderson Ranch Arts Center.
ADVISORS
Bruce Ellis Benson. Professor of Philosophy, Wheaton College and Visiting Professor, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
Martin Brest. Film director, screenwriter and producer
Roald Hoffmann. Chemist (Nobel Prize, 1981), poet, essayist and Frank H. T. Rhodes Professor of Humane Letters Emeritus at Cornell University
James B. Milliken. President of the University of Nebraska
Klaus Ottmann. Independent curator, writer and editor
Mary Rakow. Novelist
PATRONS
A Friend from Munich
Alchemy Foundation
Martin Brest
Mary Conover
Mark Hasencamp
Kent and Vicki Logan
Alexei Lossky
Katherine Priestley
Dieter Rosenkranz
Anonymous donors