art beat / By Jennifer Savage

I Sing the Body Erotic

Fortunately, other artists use the theme to push their work in a new direction or apply their skills to “erotica” as diligently as if the assignment was “apples” or “motorbikes.” One of the better examples of the former I discovered post-Arts Alive!, while doing research for this column. Victor “Vico” Hernandez wrote about his piece (no pun intended) on his blog:

“I chose to do a nude self portrait because I wanted to challenge myself. My first thought was to make a ‘Provocative’ scene with some beautiful T & A. I even had a hot photo reference lined up… but after much internal debate I realized that doing a nude self portrait is a step that must be overcome/achieved by most artists in their lifetime. So instead of doing some gratuitous sex scene, I decided to do a much more introspective piece.”

In this case, knowing the context makes an already interesting work even more so. And by making himself the subject, Hernandez is very aware of keeping to the ideal of creating art, rather than attempting to titillate the viewer.

As for an established artist going a bit more risqué — emphasis on “a bit” — check out Rachel Schlueter’s piece, “Love Shack.” One expects exceptional work whenever Rachel’s signature adorns a painting, and “Love Shack” demonstrates exactly that. Reminiscent in execution of Robert Henri’s Ashcan School-style, her painting spells out a clear narrative. We have the faceless customer, his posture confident down to his fancy pink socks. He thinks of himself as a big-shot, cigarette dangling between his fingers. The bright paint strokes and curl of smoke support the heat of the woman — she’s all curves and smoldering. Gorgeous.

Fans of Jesse Wiedel will enjoy his typically talented, twisted series. Jeff Cross’s giant, orange, glittery painting charmed viewers, including this one. Also of note, work by Lee Harvey Roswell and Accident Gallery co-owner Ananda Oliveri.

Alas, captivated by the Body Erotica show, I failed to make it over to First Street Gallery, where Animalia Alumna Artisfabricus features work by nine Humboldt State University alumni artists including paintings of Erin Whitman. Even as a thumbnail on First Street’s web page, her piece “Drip” causes a catch of the breath with its rich colors and luscious twists. “Drip” engages the senses, is as sensual as any piece at the Accident Gallery, and serves as a reminder of how great art invokes a visceral reaction as well as intellectual, whether in the heart, stomach or regions south.

The Animalia Alumna Artisfabricus exhibit runs through Sept. 12, at the First Street Gallery, 422 First St. Eureka. Call 443-6363 for further information. Accident Gallery is located at 210 C St. between Second and Third streets in Eureka. It’s open noon to 7 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. More at 445-2420.

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