In the wake of Hennessey Youngman’s hilarious and pointed YouTube critique of Damien Hirst (linked below) in which Hirst gets skewered for: a) perpretrating “a perfect storm of banality”, b) oozing an unprecedented level of “Iroc-Z Axe Body Spray douchery” and c) yes, using money as his medium, it seems an opportune moment to take a look at some other recent money-based projects as an interesting counterpoint to the art of excess. Just yesterday, Hyperallergic profiled Occupy George, an online initiative in which infographics visualizing aspects of the economic disparity in the US have been made available for anyone to download and print onto dollar bills. The stated intent? To circulate the stamped money as much as possible, passing knowledge to all who come across the bills.

The Ministry has had a busy month with 2 separate events at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Members were first offered exclusive front-of-the-line access to a book signing and release with acclaimed contemporary artist Gary Taxali. The event was casual and fun. Refreshments were served and members of The Ministry were each graciously given a special print edition from Taxali.

The second event was a tour of the impressive Thomson Collection with AGO curator Sasha Suda. This event was fantastic as Suda was able to confidently explain the rich collection in an accessible and interesting manner, focusing on Thomson's incredible passion for collecting. This was a rare opportunity for members to have a one on one dialog with a curator at a major Canadian institution. A good time was enjoyed by everyone who attended.

See more photos of the past 2 events below.

This Wednesday evening, September 21, members of The Ministry of Artistic Affairs will meet at the Art Gallery of Ontario to celebrate the release of award-winning illustrator Gary Taxali's newest monographs, "I Love You, OK?" and "Mono Taxali". Taxali will speak about his work and be available for Q&A and book signing.

This event is open to the public and is expected to be very busy. However, members of The Ministry who have RSVP'd will receive line-bypass. And because of the close relationship between Taxali and The Ministry of Artistic Affairs, the first 20 members to RSVP will also receive a very special limited edition print signed by Taxali.

In conjunction with the exhibition The Writing On The Wall, the Drake is thrilled to present two site-specific installations by award-winning illustrator and fine artist Gary Taxali.