It has been ten years since the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery held its first self-portrait exhibition. The newest iteration, Look at Us Now, will be August 2-October 18, with a reception to celebrate the artists on Sunday, August 2, 2:00-4:00pm.
The idea for an artist self-portrait exhibition was first brought up by Sandzén Gallery show committee member Michael Jilg in 2015, and the exhibition was held the following year. It was one of the most successful exhibitions in the Gallery’s history and brought nearly 90 artists together—showcasing a vast range of styles and approaches to a self-portrait. For this exhibition, the field has blossomed to over 140 artists.
The dictionary definition of a self-portrait is fairly straightforward: “A self-portrait is a representation of an artist that is drawn, painted, photographed, or sculpted by said artist.” That simple description leaves much to be desired, with no hint of the creative possibilities when there are no constraints of rules or guidelines. How artists see themselves at work, at play, in studio, at home, in nature, and in connection to family and ancestors provides a kaleidoscope of color and imagery to browse and enjoy.
Some artists have looked back to where they’ve been by including glimpses of their childhoods, while others meditate upon where they are now in their careers. A few have revisited their 2016 entries to update ten years of living and creating. Some reference recent events in their histories—including such things as covid times and dental emergencies. Others see themselves reflected in store front windows, or imagined in the role of bandana-ed cowboy on the plains, or, condensed into a hanging item of clothing. Some look further back in history, dressing themselves in elaborate costumes and wielding quill pens. This vast array of portraits are sure to elicit curiosity for viewers and provide entertainment for all who visit the exhibition.
The Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery is located at 401 N First Street. Hours are 10:00am-5:00pm Tuesday through Saturday, and 1:00-5:00pm on Sunday. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Docent tours for groups are available by two-week advance appointment.