A fall art exhibit that examines bullying in a broad cultural context is set to run from Sept. 9 through Oct. 29 at the Westport Arts Center (WAC).
Among works on display is this white marble bench by artist Jenny Holzer. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
Titled “More than Words” the exhibit will explore how perceived imbalances of social, physical or political power can be abused to marginalize others, according to WAC officials.
The exhibit will launch with a reception open to the public on Friday, Sept. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The show includes artistic expressions of gender, racial, religious, geopolitical and age inequality, as well as works that serve to demonstrate the impact of bullying and cyberbullying, according to an announcement.
“Bullying is harmful enough when confined to the schoolyard, but its true impact is exponentially greater when these power differentials are played out within the social institutions of relationships, the workplace, politics and the world,” said Gerry Snyder, dean of Pratt Institute School of Art and event curator.
“Artists have long responded to these inequities through their work, able to speak truth to power in a way not available to others,” Snyder added.
Participating artists include: Cory Arcangel, Andrea Bowers, Cary Leibowitz, John Currin, Theaster Gates, Leon Golub, Francisco Goya, Keith Haring, Jenny Holzer, Barbara Kruger, Daniel Joseph Martinez, Arnold Mesches, Donald Moffett, Beverly Semmes, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Kara Walker, Gillian Wearing, and Lisa Yuskavage.
“Our goal for the exhibition is to raise awareness, drive positive change and foster an open conversation around the emotionally charged topic of bullying,” said Derek Goodman, a Westport parent and WAC board member who came up with the idea for the show.
“We have chosen the title ‘MORE Than Words’ for its versatility in meaning,” said Amanda Innes, WAC executive director. “It speaks to the harmful impact of bullying, as well as the freedom of expression through the visual arts.”
According to WAC officials, the exhibition will be accompanied by a calendar of events, including participation of the Anti-Defamation League, Felix Gonzalez-Torres Foundation, National Charity League, Westport Library, Westport Country Playhouse, Triangle Community Center, SKATEmovement (K2BK founders), Westport Magazine/Moffly Media, and Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County.
“The Arts Center has the unique ability to serve the community through the arts, and we are thrilled to have the support of so many respected organizations as our partners in this effort,” said Innes.
“In collaboration with many national and local organizations, the Westport Arts Center is working to change negative perceptions, facilitate dialogue, and disseminate anti-bullying tools and resources to a wider audience.”
Those who attend the exhibition, or who identify with the meaning of “MORE Than Words,” are invited to participate by using #iammore in social media.
WAC officials say they will continue the theme with a group show, “MORE Than Words /#iammore,” which will be juried by a panel and open to the public. A call for entries is underway and submissions are due Oct. 7, with the show beginning Nov. 11.
