EBSQ Art FAQ - EBSQ - About EBSQ

What does EBSQ stand for?

EBSQ (ee-bee-es-CUE) is derived from the name e-Basquiat and has its roots in early online tagging (like, waaay back when tags were still called "keywords")

The name has two-fold meaning. The early members of the group fancied Basquiat's work (and the innovator of the term actually worked for Basquiat at one point!). They saw themselves (rightly) as rebels outside of the gallery system, taking their art career into their own hands literally and figuratively.

And then there's this little thing that EBSQ'ers have been doing for the past 7 years. Just as Basquiat left the tag "SAMO" all over creation with his art, we leave "EBSQ" wherever we put our art online and off, leaving a trail back to our site and other like-minded souls. (and if you're already an EBSQ artist, we invite you to tag your own art with EBSQ wherever you show your work!)

When was EBSQ formed?

The EBSQ Self-Representing Artists community was started in 2000 by California artist, writer, and professor John Seed. Amie and Bill Gillingham later bought the rights to found a company around the community to provide resources for artists who wanted to present their own work to the public.

Who can join EBSQ?

EBSQ membership is open--we welcome artists at all stages of their career. All media and styles are welcome.

Who runs EBSQ?

EBSQ is a community of artists run by artists. Day to day operations are overseen by executive director and long-time member Amie Gillingham. Click here to view the rest of our staff.

Is EBSQ owned or controlled by eBay?

No. This is a misconception. We believe some people believe we are because our beginnings were founded in eBay and because our name begins with the same first two letters. We are not affiliated with eBay in any official capacity.

What is a Self-Representing Artist?

A Self-Representing Artist typically makes his/her work available directly to the public without a middle man. This does not rule out gallery representation as well, but in general, this is an artist from whom you can purchase work directly.