Events & Programs
SUGAR (CHAPTER II): ARTIST TALK
Thursday, August 5, at 7:00 pm
On Thursday, August 5, at 7:00 pm, we meet the exhibiting artist of 'Sugar (Chapter II),' Derick Decario Ladale Whitson, for a detailed discussion on his work and what inspires him. Join us at Kaiser Gallery or on Zoom for Whitson's virtual talk. Registration Required.
Derick Decario Ladale Whitson (b. 1991, Mansfield, Ohio) lives & works in New York City. Earned his MFA at Columbia University & BFA from Columbus College of Art & Design. Working within the realms of Photography, Video & Performance. Whitson’s work has been published in Miami New Times, Huffington Post, The Advocate Magazine, & Photo-Emphasis. Whitson has participated in many residencies across the U.S., including programs at Mass MoCA, The Fountainhead (Miami), and the AICAD/New York Studio Residency Program. Whitson is also a current recipient of the Foundation For Contemporary Arts Emergency Grant, the 2019 Enfoco Photography Fellowship, & The 2019 NYSCA/NYFA Photography Fellowship.
Derick Decario Ladale Whitson (b. 1991, Mansfield, Ohio) lives & works in New York City. Earned his MFA at Columbia University & BFA from Columbus College of Art & Design. Working within the realms of Photography, Video & Performance. Whitson’s work has been published in Miami New Times, Huffington Post, The Advocate Magazine, & Photo-Emphasis. Whitson has participated in many residencies across the U.S., including programs at Mass MoCA, The Fountainhead (Miami), and the AICAD/New York Studio Residency Program. Whitson is also a current recipient of the Foundation For Contemporary Arts Emergency Grant, the 2019 Enfoco Photography Fellowship, & The 2019 NYSCA/NYFA Photography Fellowship.
SUGAR (Chapter II) is a solo exhibition by Derick Decario Ladale Whitson, on view at Kaiser Gallery June 12 - August 8, 2021. Whitson is an artist currently living and working in NYC. Working primarily in photography and video, Whitson explores the history and relationships of clowning, drag queens and black/white face to explore the social constructs of race, gender, and sexuality.
Curated Cocktails Tasting Event
Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 5:00 pm EST
Past: Friday, July 23, 2021 at 7:00 pm EST
Join Kaiser Gallery for an evening of curated cocktails and art!
What's a curated cocktail? A playful, thoughtful, and utterly delicious way to enjoy art! Our mixologists work directly with exhibiting artists to develop cocktails that enhance the art-viewing experience. Hear from our curator to learn more about our current exhibit, Sugar (Chapter II), and from our mixologist to discover how these carefully crafted drinks were created.
What's a curated cocktail? A playful, thoughtful, and utterly delicious way to enjoy art! Our mixologists work directly with exhibiting artists to develop cocktails that enhance the art-viewing experience. Hear from our curator to learn more about our current exhibit, Sugar (Chapter II), and from our mixologist to discover how these carefully crafted drinks were created.
JULY 23 TASTING MENU
Gin & Juice: OJ and Strawberry syrup with Plymouth Gin
Sugar Rhubarb Julep: Rhubarb mint julep with Bulliet bourbon
Choice of charcuterie board -or- local cheese plate, and a welcome 'muse' cocktail are included.
AUGUST 7 TASTING MENU
Sweet and Tart Tea: Hibiscus tea with Limoncello and vodka
Basil Peach Martini: Peach wine and basil infused vodka
Choice of charcuterie board -or- local cheese plate, and a welcome 'muse' cocktail are included.
Gin & Juice: OJ and Strawberry syrup with Plymouth Gin
Sugar Rhubarb Julep: Rhubarb mint julep with Bulliet bourbon
Choice of charcuterie board -or- local cheese plate, and a welcome 'muse' cocktail are included.
AUGUST 7 TASTING MENU
Sweet and Tart Tea: Hibiscus tea with Limoncello and vodka
Basil Peach Martini: Peach wine and basil infused vodka
Choice of charcuterie board -or- local cheese plate, and a welcome 'muse' cocktail are included.
Our curated cocktail menu changes with each art exhibition.
Our current exhibit is SUGAR (CHAPTER II), a solo exhibition by Derick Decario Ladale Whitson.
Our current exhibit is SUGAR (CHAPTER II), a solo exhibition by Derick Decario Ladale Whitson.
Derick Decario Ladale Whitson (b. 1991 Mansfield, Ohio) is an artist currently living and working in NYC. Working primarily in photography and video, Whitson explores the history and relationships of clowning, drag queens and black/white face to explore the social constructs of race, gender, and sexuality.
Derick Decario Ladale Whitson earned his MFA at Columbia University & BFA from Columbus College of Art & Design. Working within the realms of Photography, Video & Performance. Whitson’s work has been published in Miami New Times, Huffington Post, The Advocate Magazine, & Photo-Emphasis. Whitson has participated in many residencies across the U.S., including programs at Mass MoCA, The Fountainhead (Miami), and the AICAD/New York Studio Residency Program. Whitson is also a current recipient of the Foundation For Contemporary Arts Emergency Grant, the 2019 Enfoco Photography Fellowship, & The 2019 NYSCA/NYFA Photography Fellowship.
Derick Decario Ladale Whitson earned his MFA at Columbia University & BFA from Columbus College of Art & Design. Working within the realms of Photography, Video & Performance. Whitson’s work has been published in Miami New Times, Huffington Post, The Advocate Magazine, & Photo-Emphasis. Whitson has participated in many residencies across the U.S., including programs at Mass MoCA, The Fountainhead (Miami), and the AICAD/New York Studio Residency Program. Whitson is also a current recipient of the Foundation For Contemporary Arts Emergency Grant, the 2019 Enfoco Photography Fellowship, & The 2019 NYSCA/NYFA Photography Fellowship.
The Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club
September Around Town
Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 at 5:30 pm EST
Our Around Town networking socials are typically hosted on the first Thursday of every month at awesome venues across Cleveland. These events are a great place to meet new people, have fun with friends, and learn more about The Club. Around Towns are always free for Professional and Social members as well as non-members. Registration is recommended. Cash bar and light appetizers will be provided.
The September Around Town will be hosted at Kaiser Gallery. Kaiser Gallery is a contemporary gallery and lounge located in the heart of Tremont. In this format, they combine their dedication to the visual arts with libations to create a unique atmosphere that can readily bring art to new audiences while still serving their artists in their artistic endeavors.
Their cocktails are curated to exhibiting works, allowing guests to enjoy a more immersive art-viewing experience. Their mixologist works with exhibiting artists to create a cocktail that becomes an extension of the artwork. Their cocktails also allow artists to submit their portfolios for consideration without submission fees. This small act is powerful and removes barriers for underrepresented groups within the art world. Support Artists by buying drinks at Kaiser Gallery.
The September Around Town will be hosted at Kaiser Gallery. Kaiser Gallery is a contemporary gallery and lounge located in the heart of Tremont. In this format, they combine their dedication to the visual arts with libations to create a unique atmosphere that can readily bring art to new audiences while still serving their artists in their artistic endeavors.
Their cocktails are curated to exhibiting works, allowing guests to enjoy a more immersive art-viewing experience. Their mixologist works with exhibiting artists to create a cocktail that becomes an extension of the artwork. Their cocktails also allow artists to submit their portfolios for consideration without submission fees. This small act is powerful and removes barriers for underrepresented groups within the art world. Support Artists by buying drinks at Kaiser Gallery.
Walkabout Tremont
Join Kaiser Gallery on Friday, August 13, from 5 to 10 pm.
Kaiser Gallery is offering a free sample of one of our curated temperance drinks (nonalcoholic) during Walkabout Tremont. Our drinks are paired to exhibiting works for a more immersive art-viewing experience. Our drinks also allow artists to apply to exhibits without submission fees, removing barriers. Our full menu is also available.
Preview our newest art exhibition and sample our new cocktail menu!
Kaiser Gallery is open for a special preview of The Weight of Time, our latest art exhibition during Walkabout Tremont. We'll also debut our new curated cocktail menu to pair with The Weight of Time.
The Weight of Time is an exhibition that explores the surrealism of a very real global pandemic through introspective works. The novel virus COVID-19 threw the world as we knew it into a situation that we've never seen before. The global pandemic and the shutdowns that followed created disorientating challenges for various people to navigate in different ways while further exposing broken government infrastructure and community ramifications for a world that was not prepared to stop.
Presenting the works of Chad Eby, Danny Greene, Andrew Ellis Johnson, Matt Milligan, Haumed Rahmani, and Nowhere Mountain.
Kaiser Gallery is offering a free sample of one of our curated temperance drinks (nonalcoholic) during Walkabout Tremont. Our drinks are paired to exhibiting works for a more immersive art-viewing experience. Our drinks also allow artists to apply to exhibits without submission fees, removing barriers. Our full menu is also available.
Preview our newest art exhibition and sample our new cocktail menu!
Kaiser Gallery is open for a special preview of The Weight of Time, our latest art exhibition during Walkabout Tremont. We'll also debut our new curated cocktail menu to pair with The Weight of Time.
The Weight of Time is an exhibition that explores the surrealism of a very real global pandemic through introspective works. The novel virus COVID-19 threw the world as we knew it into a situation that we've never seen before. The global pandemic and the shutdowns that followed created disorientating challenges for various people to navigate in different ways while further exposing broken government infrastructure and community ramifications for a world that was not prepared to stop.
Presenting the works of Chad Eby, Danny Greene, Andrew Ellis Johnson, Matt Milligan, Haumed Rahmani, and Nowhere Mountain.
The Weight of Time: Opening Reception
Saturday, August 14, from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm.
You're invited on Saturday, August 14, from 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm, to join Kaiser Gallery for the opening reception of The Weight of Time.
The Weight of Time is an exhibition that explores the surrealism of a very real global pandemic through introspective works. The novel virus COVID-19 threw the world as we knew it into a situation that we've never seen before. The global pandemic and the shutdowns that followed created disorientating challenges for various people to navigate in different ways while further exposing broken government infrastructure and community ramifications for a world that was not prepared to stop.
Presenting the works of Chad Eby, Danny Greene, Andrew Ellis Johnson, Matt Milligan, Haumed Rahmani, and Nowhere Mountain.
Our mixologists work with exhibiting artists to develop cocktails that enhance the art-viewing experience. Also, when enjoying drinks at Kaiser Gallery, it allows artists to submit their portfolios for consideration without submission fees. This small act removes barriers from underrepresented groups. Support artists while enjoying drinks at Kaiser Gallery. Here are a few of our upcoming curated cocktails, named after the artist they are inspired by:
Kaiser Gallery is a contemporary gallery and cocktail lounge located in the heart of Tremont. In this format, we combine our dedication to the visual arts with libations to create a unique atmosphere that can readily bring art to new audiences while still serving our artists in their artistic endeavors.
You're invited on Saturday, August 14, from 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm, to join Kaiser Gallery for the opening reception of The Weight of Time.
The Weight of Time is an exhibition that explores the surrealism of a very real global pandemic through introspective works. The novel virus COVID-19 threw the world as we knew it into a situation that we've never seen before. The global pandemic and the shutdowns that followed created disorientating challenges for various people to navigate in different ways while further exposing broken government infrastructure and community ramifications for a world that was not prepared to stop.
Presenting the works of Chad Eby, Danny Greene, Andrew Ellis Johnson, Matt Milligan, Haumed Rahmani, and Nowhere Mountain.
Our mixologists work with exhibiting artists to develop cocktails that enhance the art-viewing experience. Also, when enjoying drinks at Kaiser Gallery, it allows artists to submit their portfolios for consideration without submission fees. This small act removes barriers from underrepresented groups. Support artists while enjoying drinks at Kaiser Gallery. Here are a few of our upcoming curated cocktails, named after the artist they are inspired by:
- The Eby: martini with pea flower chamomile tea, sage honey syrup, mezcal
- The Johnson Sanitizer: gin + tonic gel w/toasted Sichuan peppercorn syrup, lemon peel, and jalapeno presented in a loose gelatin state
- Nowhere Mountain: a Pilsner with a scoop of citrus sorbet and drizzle of Campari
Kaiser Gallery is a contemporary gallery and cocktail lounge located in the heart of Tremont. In this format, we combine our dedication to the visual arts with libations to create a unique atmosphere that can readily bring art to new audiences while still serving our artists in their artistic endeavors.
Open Life Drawing: Guest Model Scarlett Morgan
Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 7:00 pm EST
On August 19 at 7:00 pm, join Kaiser Gallery for a special open life drawing session with guest model Scarlett Morgan.
This is a free event, but registration is required. All skill levels are welcomed. Please bring dry drawing materials to work in.
Scarlett Morgan is a 28 year old woman and Detroit native transplanted to metro Cleveland. After graduating from Wayne State University with a degree in mortuary science, she went on to earn licensure as a funeral director and embalmer in both Michigan and Ohio, where she currently practices. She finds her creative outlets in costuming and prop fabrication for her studio, Beebuns Cosplay, and co-hosting her podcast about death, MortMic.
This is a free event, but registration is required. All skill levels are welcomed. Please bring dry drawing materials to work in.
Scarlett Morgan is a 28 year old woman and Detroit native transplanted to metro Cleveland. After graduating from Wayne State University with a degree in mortuary science, she went on to earn licensure as a funeral director and embalmer in both Michigan and Ohio, where she currently practices. She finds her creative outlets in costuming and prop fabrication for her studio, Beebuns Cosplay, and co-hosting her podcast about death, MortMic.
Past Events
SOLD OUT! Open Life Drawing with Sassy Sascha
Thursday, July 15, 2021 at 6:00 pm EST
On July 15 at 6:00 pm, join Kaiser Gallery for a special open life drawing session with guest model Sassy Sascha.
This is a free event, but registration is required. All skill levels are welcomed. Please bring dry drawing materials to work in.
Sassy Sascha is a biological female (AFAB) Drag Queen in the Greater Cleveland area and has established Cleveland's longest-running, family friendly drag brunch currently hosted at The Winchester. She hosts many shows at popular spots all over NE Ohio and supports the community with outreach, Drag Queen Story Hour, Pride, and by helping new performers showcase their talent.
This is a free event, but registration is required. All skill levels are welcomed. Please bring dry drawing materials to work in.
Sassy Sascha is a biological female (AFAB) Drag Queen in the Greater Cleveland area and has established Cleveland's longest-running, family friendly drag brunch currently hosted at The Winchester. She hosts many shows at popular spots all over NE Ohio and supports the community with outreach, Drag Queen Story Hour, Pride, and by helping new performers showcase their talent.
Walkabout Tremont
Friday, July 9, 2021 at 5:00 pm EST
Walkabout Tremont is officially back! Join Kaiser Gallery on Friday, July 9, from 5 to 10 pm.
Kaiser Gallery is offering a free sample of one of our curated temperance drinks (nonalcoholic) during Walkabout Tremont. Our drinks are paired to exhibiting works for a more immersive art-viewing experience. Our drinks also allow artists to apply to exhibits without submission fees, removing barriers. Our full menu is also available.
New curated cocktail! Kaiser Gallery is also offering a special menu item available during Walkabout Tremont, a new curated cocktail, the burnt honey old fashion to pair with Sugar (Chapter II), a solo exhibit by Derick Decario Ladale Whitson. Available for a limited time.
Kaiser Gallery is offering a free sample of one of our curated temperance drinks (nonalcoholic) during Walkabout Tremont. Our drinks are paired to exhibiting works for a more immersive art-viewing experience. Our drinks also allow artists to apply to exhibits without submission fees, removing barriers. Our full menu is also available.
New curated cocktail! Kaiser Gallery is also offering a special menu item available during Walkabout Tremont, a new curated cocktail, the burnt honey old fashion to pair with Sugar (Chapter II), a solo exhibit by Derick Decario Ladale Whitson. Available for a limited time.
//What's Happening in Tremont//
The eclectic neighborhood of Tremont will have art openings across the neighborhood, extended hours at art galleries and retail shops, live music at several locations, and food and drink specials at Tremont’s restaurants and bars. Entertainment includes Dr. U.R. Awesome, a Guiness-record holding bubble artist from 6:30–8 p.m. at St John Cantius Church; David Bays singer/songwriter; Reverbious – one man band; and, chalk artists around Lincoln Park for Canalway Partners self-guided history walks.
The eclectic neighborhood of Tremont will have art openings across the neighborhood, extended hours at art galleries and retail shops, live music at several locations, and food and drink specials at Tremont’s restaurants and bars. Entertainment includes Dr. U.R. Awesome, a Guiness-record holding bubble artist from 6:30–8 p.m. at St John Cantius Church; David Bays singer/songwriter; Reverbious – one man band; and, chalk artists around Lincoln Park for Canalway Partners self-guided history walks.
Sugar (Chapter II): Opening Reception
On Saturday, June 12, 2021, join Kaiser Gallery for the opening of Sugar (Chapter II) a solo exhibition by Derick Whitson.
Derick Whitson (b. 1991 Mansfield, Ohio) is an artist currently living and working in NYC. Working primarily in photography and video, Whitson explores the history and relationships of clowning, drag queens and black/white face to explore the social constructs of race, gender, and sexuality.
This event is Free and Open to the Public.
Derick Whitson (b. 1991 Mansfield, Ohio) is an artist currently living and working in NYC. Working primarily in photography and video, Whitson explores the history and relationships of clowning, drag queens and black/white face to explore the social constructs of race, gender, and sexuality.
This event is Free and Open to the Public.
Liz Ferro: Book Launch
Friday, May 21, 2021 at 7:00 pm EST
On Friday, May 21, 2021, join Kaiser Gallery for Liz Ferro's debut of her latest novel, Chameleon Girl. At 7:00 pm, Liz Ferro will read an excerpt from her new novel, Chameleon Girl. Afterward, stay for the book signing.
This event is Free and Open to the Public.
6:00 pm - Doors Open
7:00 pm - Book Reading
7:30 pm - Book Signing
This event is Free and Open to the Public.
6:00 pm - Doors Open
7:00 pm - Book Reading
7:30 pm - Book Signing
Kaiser Studios' Artist Talks:
'DomesticLands'
Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 6:30 pm EST
On Thursday, May 6, at 6:30 pm, we met the exhibiting artists of 'DomesticLands' for an insightful look into the works of Morgan Bukovec, Gary Sczerbaniewicz, and Allison M. Walters.
The home is a place that fosters our understanding of relationships. During the early years of childhood is when we develop socially and emotionally. Later in life, these early years will impact our ability to foster relationships, empathize, and how to interact with others. When revisiting memories of home, it is important to teeter on the edge of both joy and trauma as this duality defines us. There are nurturing memories that offer safety and warmth. However, for others, the home can represent pain where a moment of trauma is forever encased in time. Home can be a physical location, associated with the material, or defined within one's self. This cultivation of objects and relationships defines who we are.
Presenting works by Morgan Bukovec, Gary Sczerbaniewicz, and Allison M. Walters.
The home is a place that fosters our understanding of relationships. During the early years of childhood is when we develop socially and emotionally. Later in life, these early years will impact our ability to foster relationships, empathize, and how to interact with others. When revisiting memories of home, it is important to teeter on the edge of both joy and trauma as this duality defines us. There are nurturing memories that offer safety and warmth. However, for others, the home can represent pain where a moment of trauma is forever encased in time. Home can be a physical location, associated with the material, or defined within one's self. This cultivation of objects and relationships defines who we are.
Presenting works by Morgan Bukovec, Gary Sczerbaniewicz, and Allison M. Walters.
Morgan Bukovec is a mixed media artist, educator, storyteller and collector of things from Cleveland, Ohio. Having received a bachelor's degree in Fine Art and Art Education from the University of Dayton, her studio practice is interdisciplinary with a focus on themes of identity, storytelling, fleeting moments and objects across time. Recent group exhibitions include: /DIFFERENT STROKES/, Female Artist Club, Belgium, Boundaries, Woman Made Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, and Waterloo Arts Juried Exhibition, Waterloo Art Gallery, Cleveland, Ohio. Morgan works as a bartender at the local pub, a server at her grandpa’s butcher shop, as well as a Thoma Engagement Guide Apprentice at the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland.
Gary Sczerbaniewicz was born in Upstate NY, received his BFA in Sculpture from Alfred University and his MFA in Sculpture & Installation from the University at Buffalo in 2013. Sczerbaniewicz is a 2016 NYFA fellow in Architecture/ Environmental Structures / Design from the New York Foundation for the Arts. He has exhibited both nationally and internationally and has completed residencies at Yaddo (2017), the Constance Saltonstall Foundation for the Arts (2016), and Sculpture Space (2013). Sczerbaniewicz recently served as Visiting Assistant Professor of Sculpture at the University of Notre Dame. Gary is represented by Anna Kaplan Contemporary, Buffalo, NY.
Allison Walters is a person who makes art. She works in photography, painting, video, digital art, and conceptual art. Her work deals with being human and sharing complex feelings with others. She has an MFA from Stony Brook University, where she studied Studio Art from 2014–2017. She also works as a web and graphic designer at the College Art Association, a nonprofit arts organization based in New York City.
Kaiser Studios Inc., a nonprofit specializing in public programming that supports the arts, provides artists opportunities for thoughtful community engagement in the form of lectures, performances, or demonstrations. Through inclusive programming, Kaiser Studios Inc. supports, promotes, and encourages artists of all mediums. For more information, visit www.kaiserstudios.org.
Kaiser Studios' Artist Talks:
'Coveted' Panel Discussion
Thursday, March 4, 2021 at 6:30 pm EST
On Thursday, March 4, DRB, PhD., joined the exhibiting artists of Coveted as moderator for a panel discussion. During this panel discussion, we explored themes of love, relationships, and desires from the perspective of the other, which is not readily accessible in mainstream media. This free virtual event is in partnership with Kaiser Studios Inc. in an effort to facilitate interdisciplinary conversations with artists about pertinent topics of our times.
Kaiser Gallery's exhibition Coveted features works that offer a range of perspectives that are not easily accessible in mainstream culture. While representations of the male gaze can be found in abundance when exploring themes of love, relationships, and desires, these artists offer another narrative.
The panel discussion featured Coveted exhibiting artists Stefani Byrd, Dani Clauson, Leiyana Gonzales, Sydney Kleinrock, Megan Lubey, Olga Nazarenko and Rebecca Poarch.
Kaiser Gallery's exhibition Coveted features works that offer a range of perspectives that are not easily accessible in mainstream culture. While representations of the male gaze can be found in abundance when exploring themes of love, relationships, and desires, these artists offer another narrative.
The panel discussion featured Coveted exhibiting artists Stefani Byrd, Dani Clauson, Leiyana Gonzales, Sydney Kleinrock, Megan Lubey, Olga Nazarenko and Rebecca Poarch.
Artist, performer, writer, teacher, homesteader, yoga leader, parent, and gender-queer feminist, DRB--as they are known to students (who range in age from six to 85), is based in Cleveland, OH, USA.
DRB received their Ph.D. in History from Case Western Reserve University. Their research is centered on gender, race, sexuality, and popular culture in the post-World War II US. They are co-editor of Make Your Own History: Documenting Feminist Activism in the 21st Century (Litwin Books, 2011) and co-writer of A History of Popular Culture: More of everything, faster and brighter (Routledge, 2012).
DRB is currently writing an illustrated historical-memoir titled ugly+white+queer: the deconstructing daughter with collaborators artist Liz Maugans and poet-performer Kisha Nicole Foster. The work includes a preface-poem by Foster, incendiary illustrations by Maugans, and narrative and collages by DRB. Part memoir, part historical fiction, the book explores the complex intersections of gender, whiteness, generation, and queer identity, as they evolve and unravel in the life and family of a privileged “daughter.” Written as an ode to Simone de Beauvoir (Memoirs of a Dutiful Daughter), Virginie Despentes (King Kong Theory), Kathy Acker (Blood and Guts in High School), and William Burroughs (Queer), the narrative seeks Truth and honesty amid the grief and reconcilation that come after the L’epoque orange (1), and the hatred wrought on Black and brown, queer, female bodies and psyches over the last four to four hundred years.
DRB is an independent consultant on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and has been using these lenses in art/writing/curatorial projects for 25 years in Cleveland and around the world. An artist-curator-critic for as long as they can remember, their endeavors often address surveillance, access, power, and authority, particularly as they intersect with racial, sex, and gender. Beginning in the late 1990s as co-founder of newsense enterprises/gallery, DRB and their former partner traveled the U.S. “closing” public sculptures. Donning the authority of the uniformed worker, and our white skin privilege, we installed orange safety cones, “caution” tape, and signs stating “This sculpture is temporarily closed.” This series was also about language, as “closed” is arbitrary when the artwork is visible, yet the warning-yellow tape kept people at bay. In Cleveland, Claus Oldenburg’s Free Stamp remained closed for six months; when someone inquired as to when it would open again, several City office workers reported that it “They closed it for cleaning.” The culmination of this work was a site-specific sculpture closing workshop at the former SPACES building, titled They (again, language play was at work here; the Kafka-esque inscrutability of who “they” might be. We also closed Ant Farm’s “Cadillac Ranch” in Amarillo, TX. This iconic work did not remain closed for long, the Texas winds ripped through the caution tape, and law-abiding Texans do not like outsiders “Messing with” their public sculptures.
This work set the course for DRB’s subversion of public spaces and events. In 2019, they collaborated with Olga Chwa to perform “DRB’s Feminist Accountability Services, Inc.” Donning green coveralls, their date (Chwa) in a floral print party dress and boa, looking fabulous, both wearing gorilla masks (in an obvious nod to the Guerilla Girls). They entered the “stage” of Ingenuity Fest 2019 and conducted feminist accountability inspections of installations and programs. Discussions awkwardly ensued through the masks, and our spectacle culminated in group discussion over beer and popcorn at a picnic table, masks off.
DRB makes music with Fetus Envy bandmate and life partner, Steve Stanasezk, and is working on a performance, “Unmoored (Undue L’orange),” a performance about bodies and psyches under siege during and after the hate of L’Orange’s “presidency” spurred on and unveiled.
An urban farmer, homesteader, animal rights supporter, and student of permaculture, DRB hopes to include these interests, as well as those learned in the Larchmere neighborhood to the programs my Sister-collaborators and they create, heal, and unite with the support of the Urgent Artist Grant. Larchmere is a community of unity and grit and my friends-family living and working there saved DRB from despair during COVID and long before.
DRB received their Ph.D. in History from Case Western Reserve University. Their research is centered on gender, race, sexuality, and popular culture in the post-World War II US. They are co-editor of Make Your Own History: Documenting Feminist Activism in the 21st Century (Litwin Books, 2011) and co-writer of A History of Popular Culture: More of everything, faster and brighter (Routledge, 2012).
DRB is currently writing an illustrated historical-memoir titled ugly+white+queer: the deconstructing daughter with collaborators artist Liz Maugans and poet-performer Kisha Nicole Foster. The work includes a preface-poem by Foster, incendiary illustrations by Maugans, and narrative and collages by DRB. Part memoir, part historical fiction, the book explores the complex intersections of gender, whiteness, generation, and queer identity, as they evolve and unravel in the life and family of a privileged “daughter.” Written as an ode to Simone de Beauvoir (Memoirs of a Dutiful Daughter), Virginie Despentes (King Kong Theory), Kathy Acker (Blood and Guts in High School), and William Burroughs (Queer), the narrative seeks Truth and honesty amid the grief and reconcilation that come after the L’epoque orange (1), and the hatred wrought on Black and brown, queer, female bodies and psyches over the last four to four hundred years.
DRB is an independent consultant on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and has been using these lenses in art/writing/curatorial projects for 25 years in Cleveland and around the world. An artist-curator-critic for as long as they can remember, their endeavors often address surveillance, access, power, and authority, particularly as they intersect with racial, sex, and gender. Beginning in the late 1990s as co-founder of newsense enterprises/gallery, DRB and their former partner traveled the U.S. “closing” public sculptures. Donning the authority of the uniformed worker, and our white skin privilege, we installed orange safety cones, “caution” tape, and signs stating “This sculpture is temporarily closed.” This series was also about language, as “closed” is arbitrary when the artwork is visible, yet the warning-yellow tape kept people at bay. In Cleveland, Claus Oldenburg’s Free Stamp remained closed for six months; when someone inquired as to when it would open again, several City office workers reported that it “They closed it for cleaning.” The culmination of this work was a site-specific sculpture closing workshop at the former SPACES building, titled They (again, language play was at work here; the Kafka-esque inscrutability of who “they” might be. We also closed Ant Farm’s “Cadillac Ranch” in Amarillo, TX. This iconic work did not remain closed for long, the Texas winds ripped through the caution tape, and law-abiding Texans do not like outsiders “Messing with” their public sculptures.
This work set the course for DRB’s subversion of public spaces and events. In 2019, they collaborated with Olga Chwa to perform “DRB’s Feminist Accountability Services, Inc.” Donning green coveralls, their date (Chwa) in a floral print party dress and boa, looking fabulous, both wearing gorilla masks (in an obvious nod to the Guerilla Girls). They entered the “stage” of Ingenuity Fest 2019 and conducted feminist accountability inspections of installations and programs. Discussions awkwardly ensued through the masks, and our spectacle culminated in group discussion over beer and popcorn at a picnic table, masks off.
DRB makes music with Fetus Envy bandmate and life partner, Steve Stanasezk, and is working on a performance, “Unmoored (Undue L’orange),” a performance about bodies and psyches under siege during and after the hate of L’Orange’s “presidency” spurred on and unveiled.
An urban farmer, homesteader, animal rights supporter, and student of permaculture, DRB hopes to include these interests, as well as those learned in the Larchmere neighborhood to the programs my Sister-collaborators and they create, heal, and unite with the support of the Urgent Artist Grant. Larchmere is a community of unity and grit and my friends-family living and working there saved DRB from despair during COVID and long before.
Kaiser Studios Inc., a nonprofit specializing in public programming that supports the arts, provides artists opportunities for thoughtful community engagement in the form of lectures, performances, or demonstrations. Through inclusive programming, Kaiser Studios Inc. supports, promotes, and encourages artists of all mediums. For more information, visit www.kaiserstudios.org.
Kaiser Studios' Artist Talks and Panels:
SWITCH Panel Discussion
Thursday, December 17, 2020
On December 17, Electrical and Railway Systems Engineer Cara Levy, P.E. joined the exhibiting artists of SWITCH for a Panel Discussion that explores the rapidly evolving relationship between art and technology. This free virtual event was in partnership with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Women in Engineering New York to promote interdisciplinary conversations between the arts and sciences.
Kaiser Gallery's exhibition SWITCH explores the evolution of art and how it's become more intertwined with technology, reshaping the definition of what we consider art along the way. SWITCH features a wide variety of artists and creators who challenge art in different directions through the implementation of technology.
Kaiser Gallery's exhibition SWITCH explores the evolution of art and how it's become more intertwined with technology, reshaping the definition of what we consider art along the way. SWITCH features a wide variety of artists and creators who challenge art in different directions through the implementation of technology.
|
Cara Levy, P.E. [Moderator]
Ms. Levy is an Electrical and Railway Systems Engineer based in New York City. She has 13 years of industry experience and holds a Professional Engineering license in eight states. She attended college at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA for her Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering and University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom for her Master’s degree in Railway Systems Engineering and Integration. She leads the IEEE Women in Engineering group in New York City and is the Vice President of Land Transportation for the international IEEE Vehicular Technology Society. Ms. Levy holds a high appreciation for technology and art. |
SWITCH Exhibiting Artists
Laura Bigger
Laura Bigger is an Assistant Professor of Art and runs the printmaking area at Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. She has previously taught at the University of Nevada, Reno and Augsburg College, in Minneapolis, MN. Originally from Boulder, CO, Bigger received a BA in Studio Art and Hispanic Studies from Colorado College in 2008 and an MFA in Printmaking from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities in 2013. She has exhibited her work in solo and group exhibitions nationally.
Emily Dzieweczynski
Emily is a multimedia artist, creative researcher, designer, and educator. She is interested in the intersection of science and art, particularly where they meet at the concept of empathy. Emily is a graduate from Gustavus Adolphus College, holding Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Psychological Science, and studied Fine Arts Media at the Slade School of Fine Art. Her work takes the form of drawing, printmaking, writing, and new media; including code, virtual reality, 3D modeling, web-based media, sound, and video.
Emily’s work has been shown at venues such as the Target Gallery, the American Swedish Institute, Rosalux Gallery, Highpoint Center for Printmaking, Gustavus Adolphus College, and the Children’s Museum of Minnesota. She has received funding through the National Science Foundation, an Arts and Cultural Heritage Grant, the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, and Gustavus Adolphus College.
Haumed Rahmani
Straddling creative, scientific, and digital frameworks, Haumed Rahmani spends his time thinking about questions that lead to better questions, in hopes of finding a guiding compass through the future. His code is being used by the likes of Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, and the Max Planck Institute, and he’s slated to present at the International Liquid Crystal Conference 2022. With work ranging from microscope imaging to generative weaving and short film, Haumed is foremost a toolbuilder and communicator. He is currently working toward his PhD in Chemical Physics at the Advanced Materials & Liquid Crystal Institute at Kent State University.
Joseph Santarpia
Santarpia’s work leverages autopoiesis—the self-creative capacity of material—to explore questions of release, embodiment, and landscape. He received his MFA from Stony Brook University in 2020, and a bachelors degree in Visual Art Education from SUNY New Paltz in 2017. He's shown in galleries across the United States, including: Small Green Door, East Los Angeles, CA; Manifest Gallery, Cincinnati, OH; LIC Arts Open, Long Island City, NY; The Brooklyn Waterfront Artist Coalition, Brooklyn, NY; Limner Gallery, Hudson NY; The Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery, Stony Brook, NY; Gallery North, Setauket, NY. He is the recipient of awards including The Goldberger Fellowship and the Dorothy L. Memorial Purchase Prize. Santarpia is also an active, New York State certified art educator currently working for the Lowville Academy & Central School District and previously for the Gallery North ArtVentures Program and Stony Brook University’s Studio Art Program.
At age 18, Santarpia had a spinal fusion of his L5, S1 vertebrae, altering his bodily reality. Because of this, he has grown to be intensely attentive to his bodily sensations. The lived experience and physical consequences of this procedure have since informed his life and art practice greatly. The two main components from which Santarpia’s practice manifest are (1) material approach and process, and (2) conceptual and biographical context. Both his material approach and the spinal fusion surgery he underwent, rely on systems of collaborative creativity (autopoiesis/sympoiesis). The fusion surgery uses bone graft, which is essentially a glue that hardens or fuses into bone over time. The procedure sets a rigid ground using rods and screws along and into the vertebrae for bodily regeneration to take its course. Similarly, Santarpia’s art practice facilitates a system of interaction: the flow of liquids and sediments; gravitational forces; evaporation; crystallization; state changes of liquids, gasses, and solids; UV light; emulsification; muscle contraction; respiration; cognition.
Laura Bigger is an Assistant Professor of Art and runs the printmaking area at Truman State University in Kirksville, MO. She has previously taught at the University of Nevada, Reno and Augsburg College, in Minneapolis, MN. Originally from Boulder, CO, Bigger received a BA in Studio Art and Hispanic Studies from Colorado College in 2008 and an MFA in Printmaking from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities in 2013. She has exhibited her work in solo and group exhibitions nationally.
Emily Dzieweczynski
Emily is a multimedia artist, creative researcher, designer, and educator. She is interested in the intersection of science and art, particularly where they meet at the concept of empathy. Emily is a graduate from Gustavus Adolphus College, holding Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Psychological Science, and studied Fine Arts Media at the Slade School of Fine Art. Her work takes the form of drawing, printmaking, writing, and new media; including code, virtual reality, 3D modeling, web-based media, sound, and video.
Emily’s work has been shown at venues such as the Target Gallery, the American Swedish Institute, Rosalux Gallery, Highpoint Center for Printmaking, Gustavus Adolphus College, and the Children’s Museum of Minnesota. She has received funding through the National Science Foundation, an Arts and Cultural Heritage Grant, the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, and Gustavus Adolphus College.
Haumed Rahmani
Straddling creative, scientific, and digital frameworks, Haumed Rahmani spends his time thinking about questions that lead to better questions, in hopes of finding a guiding compass through the future. His code is being used by the likes of Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, and the Max Planck Institute, and he’s slated to present at the International Liquid Crystal Conference 2022. With work ranging from microscope imaging to generative weaving and short film, Haumed is foremost a toolbuilder and communicator. He is currently working toward his PhD in Chemical Physics at the Advanced Materials & Liquid Crystal Institute at Kent State University.
Joseph Santarpia
Santarpia’s work leverages autopoiesis—the self-creative capacity of material—to explore questions of release, embodiment, and landscape. He received his MFA from Stony Brook University in 2020, and a bachelors degree in Visual Art Education from SUNY New Paltz in 2017. He's shown in galleries across the United States, including: Small Green Door, East Los Angeles, CA; Manifest Gallery, Cincinnati, OH; LIC Arts Open, Long Island City, NY; The Brooklyn Waterfront Artist Coalition, Brooklyn, NY; Limner Gallery, Hudson NY; The Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery, Stony Brook, NY; Gallery North, Setauket, NY. He is the recipient of awards including The Goldberger Fellowship and the Dorothy L. Memorial Purchase Prize. Santarpia is also an active, New York State certified art educator currently working for the Lowville Academy & Central School District and previously for the Gallery North ArtVentures Program and Stony Brook University’s Studio Art Program.
At age 18, Santarpia had a spinal fusion of his L5, S1 vertebrae, altering his bodily reality. Because of this, he has grown to be intensely attentive to his bodily sensations. The lived experience and physical consequences of this procedure have since informed his life and art practice greatly. The two main components from which Santarpia’s practice manifest are (1) material approach and process, and (2) conceptual and biographical context. Both his material approach and the spinal fusion surgery he underwent, rely on systems of collaborative creativity (autopoiesis/sympoiesis). The fusion surgery uses bone graft, which is essentially a glue that hardens or fuses into bone over time. The procedure sets a rigid ground using rods and screws along and into the vertebrae for bodily regeneration to take its course. Similarly, Santarpia’s art practice facilitates a system of interaction: the flow of liquids and sediments; gravitational forces; evaporation; crystallization; state changes of liquids, gasses, and solids; UV light; emulsification; muscle contraction; respiration; cognition.
Kaiser Studios Inc., a nonprofit specializing in public programming that supports the arts, provides artists opportunities for thoughtful community engagement in the form of lectures, performances, or demonstrations. Through inclusive programming, Kaiser Studios Inc. supports, promotes, and encourages artists of all mediums. For more information, visit www.kaiserstudios.org.
STORY COLLAGE WORKSHOP
Sunday, November 8, 2020
Explore storytelling and collage-making in a supportive and communal space with artist and educator Morgan Bukovec.
Explore storytelling and collage-making in a supportive and communal space with artist and educator Morgan Bukovec.
Workshop description:
As a small group, we will explore storytelling and collage making in a supportive and communal space. In this workshop, participants will be guided through reflection, writing, and collage making. This workshop is focused on exploring shape, color, and texture as it relates to expressing a story about the home. We will not only be making and creating together but building a sense of community and connection.
The workshop is hosted off-site at the BAYarts Center. All materials are provided. Space is limited to 8 participants. Registration and entry fee required.
As a small group, we will explore storytelling and collage making in a supportive and communal space. In this workshop, participants will be guided through reflection, writing, and collage making. This workshop is focused on exploring shape, color, and texture as it relates to expressing a story about the home. We will not only be making and creating together but building a sense of community and connection.
The workshop is hosted off-site at the BAYarts Center. All materials are provided. Space is limited to 8 participants. Registration and entry fee required.
Morgan Bukovec is a mixed media maker, educator, storyteller and collector of things from Cleveland, Ohio. Having recently received a bachelor's degree in Fine Art and Art Education from the University of Dayton, her studio practice is interdisciplinary with a focus on the themes: identity, storytelling, fleeting moments and objects across time. Recent group exhibitions include: Waterloo Arts Juried Exhibition and Intern Exhibition at Spaces Gallery in Cleveland, Ohio, We Want As Much, Politits Art Coalition, and Finding Calm While We Wait, Doug + Laurie Kanyer Art Collection. Morgan works at the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland as a Thoma Engagement Guide Apprentice and part-time educator, while creating narrative-based art work in her home studio. Morgan finds joy in storytelling, learning, and collecting ephemeral things.
Upcoming Events
KAISER GALLERY HOURS
Mon. & Tues., CLOSED
Weds. - Fri., 4 pm - 10 pm
Saturday, 4 pm - 11 pm
Sunday, Noon - 6 pm
Walk-ins are welcomed. Reservations recommended for groups of 3 or more.
Interested in hosting your next event at Kaiser Gallery? Email us for details.
Mon. & Tues., CLOSED
Weds. - Fri., 4 pm - 10 pm
Saturday, 4 pm - 11 pm
Sunday, Noon - 6 pm
Walk-ins are welcomed. Reservations recommended for groups of 3 or more.
Interested in hosting your next event at Kaiser Gallery? Email us for details.