I am feeling privileged to have received an announcement from Amy Beck (one of our O.C.M. members) to the opening of a recent show at Pulp. As the end of the exhibit rapidly encroaches, it is worth a few accolades and hype, if only to encourage a few more visitors in whom inspiration and admiration may plant their seeds. Pulp (www.p-u-l-p.com /6114 Military Ave.) a new paper & art store in the heart of Benson, opened their doors on Friday night, January 18th, for an art show entitled “Paper Dolls: Wall to Wall Work by Women”. It was well worth the frigid trip to cram in amongst the crowd and view the collection of work by both local and national women artists, building awareness and raising proceeds for VDAY (a day dedicated to stopping violence against women). The collection of work was mesmerizing and well displayed the full length of the back wall of the store. If it weren’t for the tremendous crowd, I might of stayed all night. Luckily, it is still being displayed until February 13th.
The work of one particularly artist, Nicole Crawlfield (used to promote the show itself) was very captivating for me. With only a small collection of her work represented amongst all the others, her photography stood out to me from the rest with stark depictions of women expressing their sexuality and authority surrounded by the backdrops of the mundane and stereotyped responsibilities of women. As I stood shoulder to shoulder with other guests of the exhibit, looking at these strong and beautiful ladies, I was struck with a feeling of pride at their postures of blatant rebellion to that which was surrounding them, expected of them, or demanded of them.
The other artists who contributed to the show did so with excellence and skill as well. From oil painting to collage work, to handwork, the collection is captivating. Also, the store itself is worth checking-out and supporting. Their shelves are lined with beautiful handmade papers, individually screen printed cards as well as notebooks, handbags, wallets, magnets, buttons and all sorts of handmade treasures. This is one more group I am thrilled to know is supporting the Indie scene here in Omaha, and doing it with style.
Alicia Perry
