Thu 10/24 @ 6pm
Now in its third incarnation, the Gallery at Lakeland’s Skull and Skeleton in Art III: Folk Art to Pop Culture is an art exhibition celebrating art and the culture of Mexico. What began as 18 artists in 2009 and expanded to 55 artists in 2011, now features 64 local, regional and national artists and boasts over 300 works!
The Skull and Skeleton in Art is curated by the Gallery at Lakeland’s Director Mary Urbas – herself a huge fan of the theme. In fact, pieces from her personal collection will be among the works on display. “I love and collect Mexican Folk Art, skulls and skeletons” says Urbas. “As the former Diversity Specialist at Lakeland I wanted to curate a show that would connect with our student body (pun intended)…to educate the public about Dia de los Muertos and its cultural contribution to World Art. That it was based on a religious holiday and really wasn’t about Halloween — it just occurs at the same time of year.”
Urbas has gathered artists from around the country – North and South Carolina, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and even as far as California. The eclectic show features diverse work in an incredible variety of media including oil/acrylic/encaustic painting, textiles/fiber, printmaking, drawing, photography, digital art, sculpture, glass, wood, ceramics, mixed media, assemblage and jewelry.
“Some of the images are fun, happy and colorful, more Folk Art inspired – others are very dark, macabre, cynical and sarcastic,” explains Urbas. “I wanted to share this ‘culture’ with the viewers and make them realize that there are quite a few artists working in this ‘genre.’ I have been gathering artists and images for almost 2 years. I visit almost every art show, juried exhibition and outdoor arts festival recruiting artists. Once I put the word out on Facebook, images were sent to me and referrals to check out other artists. I challenged a few of my friends to come over to the ‘skele side’ and create work. Quite a few took up the gauntlet and created some incredible art. There are skele collectors all over the world!”
Dia de los Muertos acknowledges that death is a constant companion from birth – an accepted friend to be joked and played with. This show is timed perfectly to coincide with this “Day of the Dead,” as well as Halloween and Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 16-Oct 15).
“It’s about embracing life and death and our mortality,” says Urbas. “Being raised Roman Catholic, the rebellious side in me was drawn to skulls for the initial shock value.”
Participating local artists include Chad Kimes (CHOD), Meredith Hahn, Tim Herron, Jeanetta Ho, Sean Kelly, George Kocar, James March and Gadi Zamir. Local artist Hector Castellanos-Lara will serve as guest speaker – with a presentation at 8pm. The Urban Community School’s 8th Grade Art Club has created an ofrenda (temporary altar) to honor the memories of departed relatives and friends.
The Boneyard Market will feature over a dozen artists creating art at a lower price point the night of the artist reception. Works will include carved necklaces, t-shirts, magnets, jewelry, greeting cards, charms, home furnishings, coloring books, prints, postcards, crocheted accessories, chocolates and more!
The artist reception on Thursday will double as a costume party. Guests are encouraged to come in costume!
This event is free and open to the public. Boneyard Market runs 6-9pm. Artist Reception and Costume Party from 7-9pm. Exhibition runs through November 8th.