Artist Talk: Paul Gerard Somers, Muscle Memory

Artist Talk: Saturday, May 4,  1-2 pm

The gallery is open on Saturday from 12 - 4 pm.  

The current exhibit, Muscle Memory, features work by Paul Gerard Somers, and is on view through May 11, 2024. Paul will be giving an artist talk on Saturday, May 4 from 1:00 - 2:00 pm. He uses sports paraphernalia and images from popular media to reflect on cultural norms and values. From his personal experience growing up in a small Midwestern town he reflects on the pressures, joys, and concerns that we all face no matter what our gender identity or age.

Paul notes, “My work is based on a personal investigation of societal institutions, rituals and the exploration of their influence on our culture. I am interested in examining automatic and collective beliefs and how they impact and shape individual behaviors. My work evokes memories and feelings of childhood. I question the boundaries of masculinity within contemporary society and if and when the toys must be put away.”

Paul Gerard Somers is an interdisciplinary artist working in fiber, sculpture, painting, drawing, and performance. He was born in Dayton, Ohio, and lived in several states before settling in Chicago. He received a B.A. from Ball State University, and an MFA from The University of Chicago in 2013.

In addition to the Artist Talk, the remaining special events in conjunction with this exhibition are a performance including Paul and three other artists on Friday, May 10 from 7:00 - 7:30 pm, and a closing reception on Saturday, May 11 from 12:00 - 4:00 pm. The Performance is of an excerpt of a play directed by dado and script by playwright, Katherine Swan, that was performed at Facility Theater in Chicago last year.

The exhibit’s final day is Saturday, May 11. It features sculptures, drawings, prints and fiber art. SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art is located at 1527 N. Ashland Avenue.