Summer Break, Curated by Kevin Ivester
Summer Break, Curated by Kevin Ivester
Exhibition Dates: July 5th- August 3rd 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, July 5, 7-10pm
ICOSA Collective is proud to present Summer Break, a group exhibition curated by Kevin Ivester featuring the work of current Collective members and interns. Artists featured include: Leon Alesi, Amy Bench, Darcie Book, Shawn Camp, Veronica Ceci, B. Shawn Cox, Erin Cunningham, Genavieve Gurko, Mai Gutierrez, Sarah Hirneisen, Hayden Howe, Alexis Hunter, Chantal Lesley, Amanda McInerney, Monica Mohnot, Juliette Nickle, Vy Ngo, Matt Rebholz, Jacqueline Overby, Lana Waldrep-Appl and Jenn Wilson.
Curatorial Statement
When I first moved to Austin from Massachusetts in 2015, I was inspired by the city's evolving visual language. Coming from the small seaside towns where I grew up, I was accustomed to seeing somewhat static, predictable regional artwork. Austin's art world, in contrast, was refreshingly open and diverse.
One of the first projects I encountered in Austin was ICOSA, a gallery known for its ever-changing roster of twenty artists. The exhibitions at ICOSA always left me questioning the visual voice of Austin and whether the gallery accurately represented it. Over time, I realized that the work on display at ICOSA is a reflection of Austin’s ongoing evolution. The gallery’s exhibitions depend on the current group of twenty artists and the state of the world at that moment, mirroring Austin’s transient population, curiosity, and slightly rebellious spirit. The unpredictable flow of ideas shared at ICOSA perfectly encapsulates the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the city.
While curating this exhibition, I observed that introspection is a common thread among the artists of the ICOSA collective right now. The artworks delve deep into personal narratives, family, our land, culture, and an underlying anxiety. Considering the political and social complexities of the current moment, on the back end of a global pandemic, it makes sense that artists—and our city—seem to be looking inward. I view this selection of artwork as an opportunity for Austin to reflect inwardly while viewing the work, and also as an opportunity for the viewer to practice empathy and understanding.
As has always been the case, the work being made by members of the ICOSA collective serves as an accurate snapshot of Austin’s current visual voice and psychology.
About the Curator
Kevin Ivester, originally from Topsfield, MA, holds a BFA in Studio Arts from Endicott College in Beverly, MA. He is the owner of two fine art galleries and one custom picture frame shop; Ivester Contemporary, 84E Gallery & Goods, and East Side Picture Framing. Since 2018, he has served on the board of Art Austin and played a key role in founding the East Austin Arts District, both of which significantly contribute to the vibrancy of the visual arts in Austin.
Event Links
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/2485649-0
