Call for Submissions:
Experimental Intervention

Guest Curator Leisa Rich

Submission Deadline: September 15, 2024
Exhibition Dates: October 23 – November 10, 2024
Propeller Art Gallery, Toronto

Online Submission Form
Entry Fee: Non-members $50 + HST to submit one or two works | Propeller members $40

A lot of artists are challenged when thinking about trying a new way of making art or using a new material. It is often easier to stick with what has worked! Experimenting takes a certain amount of fearlessness; it demands that artists accept potential failure.

If an artist can utilize unconventional materials in innovative ways and create art that transcends traditional (often self-imposed) boundaries, growth results from the process, and the artwork might even be more personally satisfying, and professionally successful, than the previous art made. It can be satisfying to challenge conventional interpretations by rejecting flat surfaces and embracing dimensionality or inviting viewers to engage with art through new perspectives, or employing titillating, thought-provoking concepts.

The primary goal here is a re-evaluation of preconceived notions about art, to think non-traditionally, stretch the creative boundaries waaaaay outside of the artist’s usual comfort zone, and make works that embody this. The works submitted should reflect a narrative of exploratory personal growth.

Leisa Rich is an experimental artist who transforms common and alternative materials in unique ways, and utilizes fibre techniques that include free motion stitching — otherwise known as machine embroidery, a method of “painting” using thread on a sewing machine — as well as sewing, 3D printing, laser engraving, AI, and more. Rich transforms these into wall-hung art works, dimensional sculptures, and pseudo-Utopian environments that suspend reality. Her creations are viewer-interactive, by inviting and encouraging tactile interaction with the public.

Her work is in the permanent collections of Delta Airlines Inc., Hilton Hotels, Emory Healthcare, The Dallas Museum of Art and more, and in private collections around the world. She is a 2019 recipient of a Distinguished Fellowship: Fulton County Arts Council, Georgia and a finalist in the Umbra competition in Toronto, 2022.

About the Gallery

Propeller Art Gallery is an artist-run co-operative and exhibition space in Toronto’s Queen West Art + Design District that supports innovative, sustainable programming. Propeller garners critical acclaim and engages public interest by supporting the creative, curatorial, and commercial endeavours of artists. Its primary focus is to support member artists in their careers through innovative programming and practical professional experience including exhibition design and installation, promotions, sales and fundraising. Since 1996 Propeller Gallery has engendered a supportive community that heightens awareness and appreciation for the arts by providing captivating and inclusive programming, community building, networking, and partnership opportunities.

Propeller Art Gallery
30 Abell Street
Toronto, ON M6J 0A9
416.504.7142
Partially Accessible
info@propellerartgallery.com
www.propellerartgallery.com

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