Since language in its written form began being recorded, Art and Text have been in dynamic interplay.  From the early combinations of symbols, text, lettering and images to the work of contemporary artists who use words themselves as art, these two forms of expression have been inextricably linked.  Writers have found inspiration in works of art; that inspiration the seed that grows into an idea that blossoms into a complex web of plots and characters destined for the pages of a book. Likewise, artists have found themselves compelled to create a visual response to emotions and ideas stirred up by works of literature, songs, poems and stories.    

Within this exhibition we have brought together poems submitted as part of a call for poetry in celebration of National Poetry Month, and works of visual art that have been inspired in some way by the written word.

In Nick Carle’s Tortilla Flats, the viewer may feel that they recognize familiar characters in a story, brought into the visual realm through the eyes of the artist.  In Genevieve and Oscar Woods’ work, as in the piece by Jessica Yip, the printed words of others have been scrutinized and appropriated, obscured by mark-making and given new meaning in the context of a new piece of self-expression.  In Joe Profita’s photograph, a collaboration celebrating the work of an anonymous artist left out in the world, a simple yet beautiful expression of solidarity has come to mean so much as it unites and encourages a community suddenly faced with new challenges.

Some of our exhibiting artists chose to share the identity of the words that inspired them, some did not.  For some, perhaps the words that were present at the inception of the idea that became the artwork are their own and were never destined to be shared.  Perhaps some of the the work eludes to a story not yet told…

We hope that you enjoy the first ever virtual show from C5 Studios, and that you find much intrigue and inspiration in the words and art that has been shared by members of our creative community.

A note to prospective buyers:

Some of the pieces exhibited have prices shown and some do not.  If you are interested in purchasing any of the artwork please reach out to us at contact@c5studios.org.