Page History

...

To begin to understand the phenomenon that has taken place in the Chelsea district of New York City this summer at the Agora Gallery several topics need to be explored. The publicity surrounding the solo show of Aelita Andre could hardly be missed. Aelita is a 4 year old painter from Melbourne, Australia. She had her first show at 20 months of age and according to the booklet handed out at the gallery "created her first significant body of work before the age of two." Before the opening of her exhibition every local TV station, news paper, and any other local media was running the story about her.

http://www.nbcnewyork.com/the-scenenews/eventslocal/PreAmazing_4-Schooler--123145488.htmYear-Old_Artist_Opens_Exhibit_in_Chelsea_New_York-123218563.html

This is the link to the story on NBC, but every station ran a very similar story before the opening, likewise every print media ran the same story as if a press packet was handed to everyone. The topics explored are what is a child prodigy, does the work stand up to the famous artists the press is comparing it with, and who is promoting her.
Plasma
What is a Child Prodigy?

...

While the jury is still out on whether Aelita Andre is the next Picasso or Pollock, it is clear she is not a child prodigy. She does show promise as an artist who as she matures and grows will add depth and meaning to her work. Because she has been giving free reign in the studio to explore and experiment she has a foundation to build on. The media circus that surrounded the opening was orchestrated and driven by a business woman wanting to cash in on a young artist. These paintings maybe balanced and have some composition but they are the work of a child and it is clear. Lydia Panart might have said it best "it is the beginning of a journey lets see what happens."