Pompano Beach Arts is thrilled to present a stained glass exhibition, (in) visible: pair-a-dice, at the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center. Renowned artist Kandy G Lopez showcases her original works, which transcend the conventional perception of the Caribbean as a paradise. Delving into the themes of colorism, economic disparity, and political trauma, Lopez’s stained glass portraits of people of color offer a contemporary perspective on an ancient technique. Mark your calendars for the opening on July 14, 2023, and don’t miss the artist talk and reception during Old Town Untapped Summer Sizzle on Friday, August 4 from 6-10 p.m. For more information, visit www.pompanobeacharts.org.
Exploring a Powerful Art Form
Lopez’s use of stained glass as a medium is nothing short of remarkable. While stained glass is a familiar art form, her creations shine a light on current cultural and social ideas that demand examination and discussion. Ty Tabing, Director of the Cultural Affairs Department, expressed admiration for Lopez’s work, recognizing its ability to stimulate dialogue on pressing issues.
A Multidimensional Artist
Kandy G Lopez is a figurative artist who fearlessly explores and experiments with various mediums to address topics such as race, gentrification, immigration, and defense mechanisms. As an Afro-Dominican American artist, she understands the significance of these subjects in both her personal heritage and the broader societal context. While Lopez has previously dabbled in photography, ceramics, painting, drawing, collage, printmaking, and sculpture, her recent focus on glass as a medium reflects her academic background and artistic evolution.
Metaphorical Transparency in Glass
Lopez’s venture into this stained glass exhibition stems from her graduate school experience, where she painted on glass as a metaphor for the vulnerability and erasure experienced by marginalized communities. Through her art, she seeks to symbolize psychological transparency and the lack thereof. Lopez confronts the notion that individuals of color often adopt a defensive exterior, projecting toughness rather than embracing transparency in certain situations.
A Journey to Cultural Exploration
The creation of (in) visible: pair-a-dice in 2023 was made possible through Lopez’s participation in the NACAN artist residency. This opportunity allowed her to travel to her maternal homeland, the Dominican Republic, deepening her artistic practice and enabling her to conduct profound experiments with glass as a medium. The rich heritage and experiences she encountered during her visit greatly influenced the development of this remarkable body of work.
Prepare to be captivated by Kandy G Lopez’s thought-provoking exhibition, (in) visible: pair-a-dice, at the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center. Through her exceptional stained glass portraits, Lopez pushes the boundaries of artistic expression while shedding light on vital societal issues. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this contemporary take on an ancient technique. Join us on July 14, 2023, and immerse yourself in the artist talk and reception during Old Town Untapped Summer Sizzle on August 4. For more information, visit www.pompanobeacharts.org and be part of this extraordinary artistic journey.
Bailey Contemporary Arts Center is located at 41 NE 1st St., Pompano Beach, Florida
The exhibition is free and open to the public.
Tuesdays through Fridays: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm | Saturdays: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sundays & Mondays: CLOSED
