Last night, we caught the pre-opening night of a new multimedia art exhibit examining the juxtaposition of strength and vulnerability through nudity. It is called "Industrially Nude" and its curated by our friend (and all around very cool chic) Stephanie down at The Headquarters on Carson Street. The Headquarters gallery apparently is how the mighty whites at the South Side Works are trying to engage young people. That in itself is a juxtaposition for another post ...
The show was very cool. Some of the art was simply lovely, others rather disturbing in that way that makes you really think for a moment (or perhaps longer). One of our local favorites, Vanessa German of 3rive, submitted pieces featuring local members of a queer art collective sharing their unique thoughts on vulnerability. Those photos were especially moving to me because I've met those people. They weren't disembodied representations of abstract ideals or unknown models stepping into a pose. Rather than a concept laid on top of a model, the fusion of strength and vulnerability practically jumped off the photograph. At least to me. I had that immediate reaction of "damn, s/he looks good" combined with awe that they have the confidence to put themselves out there. And I don't just mean posing nude b/c its all wrapped up in the amazing activism and artistry of these women and men.
After viewing Vanessa's pieces, I went back to look at the others with fresh eyes. I wish I had written down the artist of these lush lyrical paintings which would look awesome in our living room (but not so much in our bank account).
(I hate reviewing art shows b/c I have not a whit of artistic sensibility so I cannot comment on line, color, form, shadow, pungency or whatever else I'm supposed to mention. I'm just going with my gut reaction and using some of my favorite words).
So the show was good and you can catch it (opening night is tonight).
But the best part was a performance by our definite favorite spoken word burlesque group 3rive (pronounced thrive). I cannot find a website or myspace for them unfortunately.
3rive: (thrive): v., n. politically passionate spoken word performance burlesque inspired by the force of movement, language and the fierce desire to ignite and inspite empowerment and change.
They do these amazing pieces about personal empowerment, politics and anything you can imagine. Its a lush, jaw dropping show because you just don't see women reveling in their sexuality while they call out political oppression. I've seen them three times and I'll keep going b/c they inspire me. And that, I suspect, is what they set out to do.
3rive will be performing at Homo A Go Go in Washington, opening for Amy Ray. Woo hoo!
Now for some random observations -- the crowd was mixed, but I was suprised at how many frat boys and clackers were there. I was disappointed when they made disparaging comments about the show, the nudity and the homos in attendance -- who on earth invited these people? Was it the free Ritz crackers and Pabst Blue Ribbon? They just sort of appeared. But the most offensive thing to me was the clackers who laughed along when their Duke-wanna be male friends made demeaning comments about women's bodies. I thought briefly about using their pointy toed fake Mahnolas to beat some self-respect into the women, but then realized that if awesome photos of Colelea and Becca Cooper couldn't reach them it was doubtful that a raging middle aged dyke could do so.
I was also very annoyed by a snippy lesbian who objected when I wanted to simply put my drink down at her table. Or rather the unused portion of the table where she was standing. She gave me a once over sneer that infuriated Ledcat. Then I saw her do it to another woman. What the fuck is that about? Its an art gallery -- people will bump into you, you mingle, you talk, you discuss the art, you even occasionally exchange an air kiss. People can be so annoying. Whatever.
Industrially Nude Art Reception
The Headquarters 2629 E. Carson Street
Friday July 14 8 PM
Free Admission!
