Participating Artists:

Jamie Aranda, Via Boley, Michaela Bottino, Alex Bow, Jeremy Burks, Jimmy James Canales, Marcella Colavechio, Josie Del Castillo, Marciella Giovino, Morgan Grigsby, Elizabeth Hudson, Melinda Marino, Sam Mayer, Hannah Prince, Jessamyn Plotts, Rebecca Polk, Shannon Purcell, Shelby Sult, Shane Stephens. 

 

The term "Lacuna Vitae" combines "Lacuna," referring to falling short of a desirable amount, as well as to the hollow spaces between bones, and "Vitae," meaning life. This phrase encapsulates the central theme of the exhibition: exploring the mysterious, often elusive essence of life through artistic representation, particularly when it comes to depicting the human form. The exhibition will showcase the works of contemporary artists from Texas, each of whom engages deeply with the human body in their practice.

The human form has long been a cornerstone of artistic expression, symbolizing the essence of life and the human experience. However, as technology advances, particularly with the rise of AI-generated art, the ability to replicate the human figure with exact precision has led to a growing disconnect—what is known as the "uncanny valley." This phenomenon highlights the discomfort we feel when digital representations of humans are almost, but not quite, lifelike.

The exhibition "Lacuna Vitae" seeks to confront this discomfort head-on by elevating traditional, human-created figural art. It offers a space for viewers to reflect on the value of the human touch in art, especially in a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence. The artists in this exhibition grapple with the challenge of capturing the human form in all its complexity, aware that no matter how skilled or technologically advanced, there remains a lacuna—a gap—between the representation and the reality of human life.

Each artist in the exhibition works intimately with the human form, embracing its imperfections and the impossibility of fully capturing its essence. Their works are not merely representations but interpretations, twisting and stretching the human figure to evoke deeper meanings and emotions. This creative process underscores the idea that the true essence of life cannot be fully captured by either human hands or AI. Instead, it is through the act of living and experiencing life directly that one comes closest to understanding its true nature.

As society increasingly engages with AI-generated images, videos, and even chatbots, "Lacuna Vitae" challenges viewers to consider the value of traditional figurative work in this digital age. Why does the uncanny valley provoke discomfort when artists have been interpreting the human form for centuries without causing such unease? How do we reconcile the limitations of both human and AI-created art in capturing the soul—the vital essence of life?

This exhibition invites viewers to explore these questions and form their own perspectives on the evolving relationship between art, technology, and the human experience. Through the lens of "Lacuna Vitae," the exhibition aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the irreplaceable human touch in art and a critical examination of the role of AI in our creative lives.

 

This section of writing was brought to you by human written conceptual thought, filtered by A.i. word generation. 

 

Complimentary drinks will be sponsored in part by Tito’s Vodka, Topo Chico, and AustIn Beer Works.

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LACUNA VITAE | The Void of Life

Open Reception: Saturday, October 5th, 7pm - 11pm

Closing Reception Thursday October 17th, 6pm - 9

Curated By Juliette M.M. Hererra Nickle, Jacqueline Overby

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