We’ve got lots to cover in this edition of Artful Links, so let’s jump right in. Happy clicking!

Art-world news

Many big-name artists employ assistants and others in their studios — Jeff Koons, Ai Weiwei, and Takashi Murakami, to name a few. Glass artist Dale Chihuly has never been shy about hiring teams of artists to work for him. Now, a court faces the question: “Who is Really Making ‘Chihuly Art’?” (New York Times)

Have you heard of Vantablack? That’s the “world’s blackest black” that makes objects appear super-flat (and dark). While it’s often called a paint or a pigment, Vantablack can’t be used like one — not to mention the fact that only one artist is allowed to use it. But now there’s a black almost as black that can be used as a paint (with a brush or sprayed on) and is available to artists. You can get a 20 ml sample for $50.  (Hyperallergic)

Artist Maija Tammi has created a series of photographic portraits with a twist: none of the subjects are human. One of her android portraits (One of Them is a Human #1) is now a finalist in an international portrait competition, whose rules require portraits “from life and with a living sitter.” (New York Times)

Up for a trip this fall? Here’s one publication’s pick of Fall shows to look forward to around the world. Around DC, they’ve picked out “The Utopian Projects” at Hirshhorn and “Inside the Dinner Party Studio” at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. (artnet news)

(Psst: Judy Chicago will be at NMWA September 17 for a talk in conjunction with that second exhibit. It’s sold out, but you can try your luck at standby seats.)

Closer to home

This Fall’s your chance to become a volunteer docent at the National Gallery of Art here in DC. It’s (naturally) a competitive process with a two-year training program, and we know some of you out there are perfect for it. Attend one of these info sessions to get started.

Also at the National Gallery, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at a little-noticed part of putting on exhibitions. At least, it’s little-noticed if the job’s done right. (Washington Post)

Over in Anacostia, here’s an exhibit we want to visit: Black Magic: AfroPasts/AfroFutures at Honfleur Gallery. (Review: “Art is a Form of Survival.”) Included in this exhibit is artwork by Charles Jean-Pierre, who is the juror for this month’s “Mark” exhibit at The Art League. (DCist)

And finally, there’s an overnight art festival happening in DC September 23–24. Any night owls out there?