We’ve been watching the Art vs Reality series since it started up not too long ago, and we’ve been loving it. Peter Drew is well known for poking a stick at the art establishment, and this new series does just that.

Art vs Reality is somewhere between a beginners guide and high-brow – but if you sneak your mind past the (admittedly fairly minimal) art-speak then it is a wealth of great information, insight and opinion as to modern trends in art. We’ll definitely be continuing to watch it and see how it all unfolds. It’s also, as I am sure it is intended, quite humourous at times – and Peter Drew makes for a great all round, witty host.

Art vs Reality has previously covered the issues of Art Galleries and Conceptualism, and this time they bring us one thats close to home with Street Art vs The Art Market. This is seen through the lenses of the “Art Fair” and Impressionism. It’s interesting in that in this episode he draws parallels of street art to the media explosion of print and Impressionisms move away from the salons of old, and its a great take on the subject of the current popularity of street art. It also delves into the “curated wall” areas and their association with larger art fairs and the like – kudos also must be given to the Benny Hill head nod.

“Street art isn’t the first subculture to have an odd relationship with the art market. When the impressionists held their own exhibitions, outside of the Paris Salon, they changed the artworld forever. But today’s art fairs make the Paris Salon look like a yard sale. So, in this age of market dominated art, has it become any easier for subcultures to maintain their integrity? Will street art hold its own or will history just keep on repeating?”

Not everyone agrees with Peters take on things, but the great thing about the series is that he not only puts forth his considered and obviously well researched opinion, but he also actually takes the time out to do video responses to the comments – a great little feedback loop for viewers. So if you do have an opinion, say so – you never know, he might respond. check it out below …