October 3 – October 13, 2008

BAC, ArtSpace MCV, and NY@WAR present; Perfect Strangers

Curated by Tyler Campbell Wriston and Jason Patrick Voegele

In this age of fear, change, and uncertainty, it has become paramount to examine how we as individuals perceive the world around us—especially here, in a city of 8 million. Our lives are often defined by those we hold close to or work with; those that support us and form our personal communities, fostering what it is we conceive to be our identities. What is often forgotten, however, is how we are affected by our greater community: a network of strangers closer to us than we care to admit. We brush against them in the subway and exchange brief glances with them in restaurants or on the street. They breathe and feel and love and hate like anyone—everywhere and nowhere at once, veiled behind a simple handshake or kind word, we know them well, yet not at all. What, then, is the role of a “stranger,” and how do we, as artists, view them?

“Perfect Strangers” is an exhibition that examines the spectrum of responses to this enduring question. Interpretations ranging from tactile experiences to personal reflections on cultural bias and socio-economic posturing represent how our fears, desires and repulsions shape the nature of our acceptance of self, others, and the global community. Through the mediums of sculpture, photography, painting, printmaking, film and mixed media, a group of artists explore their own experiences with the “strangers” in their lives, and how they shape the world abounding.

For more information please contact Jason@republicworldwide.com