The Blanton Museum of Art Hosts Sugarluxe
Less than 3% of the artists in New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art are women, but 85% of the nudes are female. - Guerrilla Girls
Now, I’m not saying the Guerrilla Girls would feel compelled to rally behind Sugarluxe, considering its basis in mainstream glam. But perhaps they would applaud my own unique FEMINIST pursuit to increase opportunities for marginalized female artists.
The word Feminist…or the “F” word as it may be to some – is to me about equality. Always has been. And fundamentally, those who know how to look beneath the surface of my art, already know that.
So, how do I combat the sad fact that females are more likely to be on display in museums as a nude rendering than as a talented artist? Well, surprisingly enough…it was with one little belt buckle.
Even acquaintances of mine have seemed surprised when they started seeing Sugarluxe paintings, my permanent installation at the Hotel Des Arts, or my reproductions on canvas in the gallery sections of home decor stores.
“Oh, I had no idea that you were going to do anything besides belt buckles.” said one girl.
Never underestimate the power of the inconspicuous. For me anyway, a bigger plan is always at play!
That’s my advice to any aspiring artist who actually wants to make a living doing what they love.
We have to move past the antiquated, traditional assertions of what art is and define it for ourselves, for our generation and for this chapter in history. Make it accessible, no matter its form. Art is Everywhere!
So, when I was asked to do a signing and trunk show at The Blanton Museum of Art, I felt I must.
Now here’s where gets a bit sticky…
Some of the people who work at this fine establishment were wholeheartedly enthused about Sugarluxe. The fab art aficianado who brought us in, Alyssa Klossner, is awesome!
But let’s face it…I know some people thumb their nose at artists who experience any commercial success whatsoever. Nevermind that most museum gift shops are chock full of the licensed artwork of dead masters. Picasso pens, Monet mugs and Klimt calendars – just for starters.
Anyway, I made a commitment. And I always stick to my word.
When I arrived – I was speechless. How could I help but not feel honored.
This museum is incredibly beautiful. It also happens to be the LARGEST university art museum in the country and an announcement of the event was sent by the museum to thousands and thousands of its members, so I certainly appreciated the PR too.
Sure, when it came right down to it, they wanted to sell my belt buckles and other fashion accessories to make money for the Museum Gift Shop and that’s what got me in the door. But when we finished setting up, I walked to the bathroom across the huge naturally lit atrium and looked back at all my artwork on display and thought – WOW – this is definitely a start.
The afternoon ended up being a complete pleasure. This was the first show for our new interns and they did an incredible job!
I met a bunch of great people and saw some old friends that have supported me for years. That’s what matters the most. It’s hard for me to get out and do these shows when I am so exhausted from the effort it took to get there in the first place, but then I remember the whole point when I see so many sweet faces!
A tremendous heartfelt thanks to writer, Mari Johnson who waited patiently for me to get a moment to do an interview. Her coverage was not only glorious, she was such a blast to talk to. She was so smart and sincere, if it weren’t for her kicking off my day…it would not have been such a great event. Thank you so much Mari!
And thank you for getting the article picked up by Lucire. Lucire is an online global fashion magazine based in New Zealand and launched in print in New Zealand, Romania, and Thailand, with a special US issue each year, making it the first web title to branch into print internationally.
They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.
- Andy Warhol
MUSEUM UPDATE:
October 9, 2008, AUSTIN, Texas — The Blanton Museum of Art at The University of Texas at Austin will become the largest university museum in the United States when it opens its Edgar A. Smith Building in November.
The new structure, along with the celebrated Mari and James A. Michener Gallery Building, marks the completion of the Blanton complex.
“The Smith Building completes the museum facility,” said Ann Wilson, interim director of the Blanton, “opens up new opportunities for education and finally allows us to offer a total visitor experience.”
In celebration, several events are scheduled throughout November, culminating with a public grand opening party on Nov. 16. Visitors will have an opportunity to browse the newly expanded museum shop and sample treats from the new Blanton café. There will be music performances by The Guy Forsyth Trio and others, film screenings, art activities and a book signing by noted New York art historian and critic Jed Perl.
The Edgar A. Smith Building contains a 299-seat auditorium, the new Blanton café and a museum shop that will offer an expanded book selection, jewelry, children’s toys, designer chocolates and a large assortment of items made by local artists/artisans, including artist Chandra Michaels of Sugarluxe and jewelry from Igrid Kuper. A new line of “ART IS…” merchandise (inspired by the Blanton’s advertising tagline) is being developed and will include totes, umbrellas and more.
The Smith Building was named in honor of Edgar A. Smith, a University of Texas at Austin alumnus and member of the Chancellor’s Council. Smith, a prominent supporter of the university and veteran of the oil and gas industry, lives in Houston.
Designed by Kallman McKinnell & Wood Architects, Inc. of Boston, the Smith Building was planned to complement the Michener Building, and to use the Larry and Mary Ann Faulkner Plaza in between the two, creating a gateway to the university and community.
Learn more about the College of Fine Arts
