On July 19 and 20, the vibrant city of Tampa, Florida, was the epicenter of a transformative art experience—the SKIN! Art Show, aptly themed "The Rise of the Phoenix." This two-night extravaganza brought together 35 talented artists and 50 breathtaking pieces, all showcased under the creative vision of curator and producer Hampton Allen. As an artist whose work was featured, I can attest to the profound impact and positive energy of the event.
A Community of Artists
The SKIN! Art Show was more than just an exhibition; it was a community. I had the pleasure of meeting fellow creatives, each bringing their unique perspectives to the table. Photographer Cem Basak, known for his series "Covid Days," captured the essence of our shared pandemic experience with striking realism. Another standout was artist Nodz, whose abstract painting in silver and gold shimmered with an ethereal quality that captivated viewers.
One of the most spectacular pieces, in my opinion, was "Cerulean Apparition" by Ashley M. Whitney. This painting seemed to emerge a torso from the depths, embodying the very spirit of rebirth and renewal that the show aimed to celebrate.
My Artwork on Display
My own contributions to the show, "Wired (to my brain)" and "Daddy Dom," were strategically positioned to engage and provoke thought among attendees. "Wired (to my brain)" greeted visitors at the grand main entrance, setting the tone for the provocative and daring pieces that lay within. Meanwhile, "Daddy Dom" found its place by the bar, ensuring it was a focal point for conversation and contemplation.
The reactions to "Daddy Dom" were a fascinating study in human behavior. Some patrons visibly squirmed with discomfort, while others deliberately ignored it. Yet, it became a major conversation piece for many, who took photos and videos, sharing the experience with friends. The person in charge of hanging the show later confided that he had positioned it by the bar intentionally, and his wife had also captured and shared images of the piece, further amplifying its reach.
A Multisensory Experience
The SKIN! Art Show was not just about static displays. It was a dynamic, multisensory experience. Live performances included body-painted individuals putting on mesmerizing shows, artists sketching a live nude female model, and even a "Confessions" booth that added an interactive element to the event.
Being one of the 35 artists featured in this 501(c)(3) Fine Arts Nonprofit event was a humbling and exhilarating experience. The camaraderie among artists, the engaging interactions with patrons, and the overall celebration of the human form in its many expressions made this a memorable highlight of my artistic journey.
For those who couldn't attend, I highly recommend exploring the fantastic works from the 2024 show. You can view all the pieces, including my own, at the following link: SKIN! Art Show 2024 Gallery.
I will highlight more SKIN! show photos on Facebook soon: (3) Facebook
Additional Websites:
Producer, Hampton Allen: www.encoreuniverse.com
Photographer, Cem Basak: www.cembasak.com