Feb. 2, 2005 – Alexander's Bella Blu in Frenchtown features "Challenging the Myths", an exhibit of works by San Francisco Artist Maggie Malloy. The show is a fundraiser for The Family Resource Center, a portion of the proceeds from art sales will go to the FRC, and staff members will be on hand to answer questions about their services. The show opens with a meet-the-artist-reception beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 4.
"Challenging the Myths" will feature interpretive works in various media. While Malloy works from her studio in San Francisco, her artwork reflects cultural and social observations from her travels internationally.
She has a particular interest in visual markings that appear in public and private spaces. These markings may include cave drawings, graffiti, and public murals like the ones seen along the roads in St. Thomas. Her interpretive work draws upon these cultural observations. Malloy says she wants to "engage the viewer on several levels: political, social and emotional", creating works that show "universal emotions that cross-over to all genders, races and cultures."
Malloy travels to St. Thomas frequently to her sister, Jane Higgins, and has been quite engaged with the artwork and visual markings on the island. While this is Malloy's first exhibit on St. Thomas, she exhibits regularly in regional and international shows. She has been featured in solo exhibits, group shows, and juried shows and her accolades include museum residencies and commissions as well as several grants and awards, including an Award of Excellence in 2003 at the Palm Springs Greater Pride Juried Art Show.
Malloy chose to affiliate her artwork with the Family Resource Center to heighten the awareness of the organization and to highlight their contributions to "Challenging the Myths" within domestic violence and sexual assault.
Representatives of the FRC will be on hand to provide information about the non-profit organization and provide information on the different types of aid the organization needs to operate. A portion of the proceeds from art sales will directly benefit the Family Resource Center.
"Challenging the Myths" is coordinated for Alexander's Bella Blu by Gallery St. Thomas. The exhibit in the Frenchtown restaurant opens February 4th, 2004 from 5-7:00 pm with a meet-the-artist reception. Complimentary champagne and appetizers will be offered as well as an opportunity to win special door prizes. To preview the exhibit go to www.gallerystthomas.com or contact the show coordinator Gallery St. Thomas at 777.6363. The exhibit will remain on view through March 3 and is open to the public.