The Blanton Museum of Art Hosts Sugarluxe
February 10, 2008 by Chandra Michaels
Filed under Art, Design, News, Shows
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…




