Erotic Nature Wild Joy: Transforming New York City's Billboards with Public Art
I'm excited to share Erotic Nature: Wild Joy, an exhibition I had the honor of curating in collaboration with SaveArtSpace. This exhibition features the works of four talented artists, along with my own, displayed on public billboards throughout New York City from September 13 to October 6.
Art in Unexpected Places
What makes this exhibition unique is that it's displayed on public billboards. This setting creates unexpected interactions with the environment. Unlike traditional galleries, these urban advertising spaces often contradict ideas of beauty and personal connection. By placing art in these spaces, the aim is to beautify the environment and reintroduce sincerity into commercial, impersonal areas.
An intriguing and unexpected outcome is how the artworks are juxtaposed with neighboring billboard advertisements—specifically ads for divorce lawyers and injury lawyers. It's strange and thought-provoking to see artworks celebrating love and joy right next to messages about legal disputes and personal injuries. This contrast highlights the impersonal nature of typical billboard content and emphasizes the transformative power of art in public spaces.
Selected Works
Robert Lucy at Steinway St & 23rd Rd, Queens, NY
Alphachanneling at 3rd Ave & 11th St, Brooklyn, NY
The Artists and Their Locations
- Arrington de Dionyso at 40th Ave & 10th St, Queens, NY
- Julia Grayson at Morgan Ave & Stagg St, Brooklyn, NY
- Real Fun, Wow! at Park Ave & Carlton Ave, Brooklyn, NY
- Robert Lucy at Steinway St & 23rd Rd, Queens, NY
- Alphachanneling at 3rd Ave & 11th St, Brooklyn, NY
The Journey Behind the Exhibition
Curating this exhibition was both challenging and rewarding. An overwhelming number of incredible artworks were submitted by so many talented artists. With only five billboards available and strict approval processes from the billboard companies—especially given the nature of the theme—it wasn't easy. Many artworks were denied after multiple rounds of submissions, and it was a journey to finalize the selection.
In the end, a beautiful collection was assembled that captures the spirit of "Erotic Nature Wild Joy" from multiple perspectives. Each artwork complements the others, creating a dynamic experience for anyone who sees them.
An Invitation to Experience
I invite you to take a look at these artworks and how they're displayed within the cityscape. If you have the chance, go see them in person while they're still up. Each location offers a unique experience that enhances the impact of the artwork.
I want to extend my deepest thanks to all the artists who submitted their work. There were so many beautiful pieces, and it was difficult to select only a few. Thank you to the artists whose work was included and to SaveArtSpace for making this exhibition possible.
About SaveArtSpace
SaveArtSpace was founded in 2015 as a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming urban spaces into public art galleries. By launching exhibitions that address intersectional themes and promote social change, SaveArtSpace aims to empower artists from all walks of life and inspire a new generation of creatives and activists.
Image below of my billboard that was part of the Cosmic Shift billboard exhibition curated by Jen Stark in 2022 with Save Art Space, read more about it here.
