An ode to bold bands of color and goodies galore
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We can’t quite explain it, but zippy stripes and tasty treats feel especially appropriate this time of year. BBQs aplenty, visions of Old Glory flapping in the ‘burbs, even Barbie’s iconic black and white striped swimsuit are positively emblematic of the summertime.
And as curator Kate Kelly recently learned, stripes contribute so much more than mere decorative elements: some artists employed them to ground their compositions, while others were interested in creating a sense of movement. From showcasing main character energy to creating a sense of dynamism and atmosphere, join her as she remembers how the simplest elements can sometimes be the most important.
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Stripes Large or Small, We Love Them All: Stripe Art Competition
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With bubbly colors and lively patterns bursting from the canvas, “The Temptation of the Babushkas” is a spirited work that borders on camp – the highest compliment in my book. Delightfully quirky, the repetition of certain brushstrokes and markings begins to feel almost symbolic, and I can’t help but also point out the absolute perfection of the title.
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While I was initially entranced by the rhythmic nature of Wood’s painting, what really grabbed me was the inherent intimacy of the ball of fabrics. It’s a still life brimming with symbolism, a glimpse into a private space that’s well-used, well-loved, and slightly unkempt. There are so many stories that the viewer might glean from this work, each one of them an interesting insight into their own headspace.
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Powerful and gut-wrenching, “Cry for Help” is a portrait of a gay man that hides his identity out of fear and shame. He is depicted in wait, his face and body obscured by a striped cloth, and the artist beckons us to step in before it’s too late. Raising awareness of the challenges that being LGBTQ+ still presents in many communities, it’s a deeply important conversation – but it’s not without hope. Within the tranquil blue skies we feel a sense of peace, reminding us that we are indeed capable of steering towards a more tolerant future.
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So much attitude and verve! Acero’s fabulous sculpture channels a level of confidence that we should all aspire to achieve. Interestingly, the sense that the figure is walking towards us makes the viewer feel as if they’re already at the most opulent cocktail party, awaiting the guest of honor. And I love the uplifting gesture buoyed by the work’s energetic lines: immediately we sense movement, strength, and power.
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All that talk about stripes worked up our appetites. On to fun foods!
A necessary part of human survival, food also serves as a poignant and ancient symbol. We celebrate special occasions with traditional treats, break bread with friends and neighbors, and herald the summer with perfectly ripe berries and a crisp chardonnay.
Indeed, food can be deeply meaningful and unforgettable. And in this Open Call, we tapped into our inner gourmand to uncover the most indelible edibles. Join Kate once again for another deep dive, and don’t forget your appetite!
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Eyes On The Prize Likes It’s An Apple Pie: Fun Foods Art Competition
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Fun fact: just a few weeks ago, I’d come across this piece on my own and shared it with our team. That’s how much I love it! The palette instantly grabbed my attention with its ability to capture a convivial get together, while the jaunty shapes continue to bring a smile to my face. And don’t even get me started on that retro feel! Simply delightful.
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Featuring a ceramic cake and glass blown cherries, “Cherry Blossom Blue Cake” is a sweet manifestation of the artist’s fascination with Harajuku culture and aesthetics. So often, ceramics are transformed into functional items. Yet Pearce has opted to create a darling piece whose main objective is, quite simply, to spark joy. Kawaii!
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A total departure from the other submissions, “Little Miss Muffet Grows a Tuffet” boasts a surrealist feel while remaining rooted in the figurative. Featuring a hairstyle reminiscent of Marie Antoinette, the subject is also surrounded by an abundance of cake – an amusing detail, conscious or not.
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A marriage of confectionery and medication packaging, Mc Gardle’s sensational series is a parody of advertising, how marketing is used to manipulate, and our never-ending quest for self-improvement. Superlative 7-color screen prints are mounted onto deep wooden panels, elevating the work into sculpture and fully capturing the many angles (quite literally!) of contemporary packaging. Clever, fun, conceptual, and smart.
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A Moment in The Spotlight
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We’ve been looking for you! With bigger prizes and even better opportunities, our Open Calls are a great way to challenge yourself while connecting with top curators. You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take – put yourself out there and submit your best.
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