Self explores concepts related to cross-cultural expectations of gender, and what type of interactions will hence follow in our lives, from the most mundane elements of self to the defining moments that make up our lives. The exhibition will specifically highlight the work of artists matt lambert and Erika Diamond, who explore the breadth and confines of gender identity, connection, contact, and the body through wearable works of art.
matt’s work presents objects that create space for the viewer to question positionality, fixedness, and chimerism that goes beyond binary thinking. Erika’s work is an ongoing series of fashionable safety vests created with bullet-proof Kevlar material, rooted in a desire to promote awareness about the safety of the LGBTQ community, recognizing the need for all people to feel safe while expressing their individuality.
Self is made possible by the Lydon Innovation Fund, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery of Pittsburgh, JENDOCO Construction Corporation, and PFLAG Pittsburgh. Media sponsor for Self is QBurgh.
General operating support is provided by Allegheny Regional Asset District, The Heinz Endowments, The Pittsburgh Foundation, Cathy Raphael, Opportunity Fund, the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the Elizabeth R. Raphael Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation, Anonymous foundation, The George G. Fund, The Fine Foundation, Giant Eagle Foundation, and by private donations. Contemporary Craft is supported, in part, by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council through its Allegheny Arts Revival Grant. This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.
(L) Erika Diamond
Michael – Birch Vest (Imminent Peril – Queer Collection Series)
Kevlar fabric, fabric lining, Kevlar chopped mat collar, embroidery, appliqué
2020
