When it comes to art, I'm into the subject of the piece, the artist, and the overall product. Some people call it art for the masses, but I definitely don't see it that way. The Pin It Up, Babycakes! show at 111 Minna in San Francisco definitely fit the bill. If all art was like what guest curators Jessica Whiteside and Alice Stribling had on display, I would go see more of it.
After reading our interview with Whiteside and Stribling, I was excited to see the show - but hesitant, since I'm no art connoisseur. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived: from the moment I walked in the door, everything I saw was breathtakingly beautiful and intriguing.
Almost every piece on display at the gallery was a piece I would have enjoyed hanging in my own home. The paintings, photographs, and mixed media works on display weren't just conversation pieces because they contained nearly-naked women. They were conversation pieces because of the skill involved in their creation, the uniqueness of the overall work, and the amazing artists behind the show.
Despite the fact that many of the artists utilized very different styles, the show had a very cohesive overall feel. This is the kind of art that will one day, hopefully, grace the walls of my home.
When asked what one piece they would each consider to be their favorites, Whiteside and Stribling didn't have an easy answer.
Whiteside's favorite was a piece by UK artist Emma Mount called "Little Miss Risk". This was also my favorite piece from the show.
Stribling narrowed down her top 3 favorites, including Whitesdie's "Forgive Me" (not pictured), Mount's "Little Miss Risk" (above), and Shaunna Peterson's "Whippin' Cream". Stribling said that "Whippin' Cream" was the one she wanted hanging above her bed.
Both Stribling and Whiteside's work were true highlights of the show.
The opening night was packed with people - artists, models, burlesque students, and eager art fans. The burlesque show packed the gallery with people, and we saw some amazing performances from Bombshell Betty's burlesque students. The burlesque show was MC'ed by Kitten on the Keys, who is also the subject of one of Stribling's paintings.
And, really, how many art shows do you go to where you can buy underwear and try it on in public without being the victim of strange sideways glances and whispers?
This is an art show not just for fans of burlesque, but for anyone who can appreciate the fine art of sensuality, sex appeal, and strong women.
The entire experience of the show was amazing. Every piece was individually breathtaking and wonderful, and together they exhibited an overall aura of sensuality, strength, and little something special. The collection was truly sensational, and I look forward to seeing more exhibits curated by Whiteside and Stribling.
Congratulations to Jessica and Alice for an outstanding opening night! Pin It Up, Babycakes runs through February 28th at the 111 Minna Gallery in San Francisco, be sure to check it out!
All photos taken by Liz Abinante at the Pin it Up, Babycakes! show. You can view more photos from the show at Liz's flickr. All original artwork portrayed is owned by the artists.