POLITICAL ISMS Artist Reception

Ism is a noun meaning an ideological movement typically political or artistic. In our modern world there are a lot of isms at play.  Think of any noun and add “ism” to it.  Presto – a new ideological or artistic movement is in action.  Everyone has a favorite ism; what’s yours?
Artists May DeViney and Barbara Fletcher bring together different isms, meeting in the middle using humor, color, technique and intension.

DeViney’s work highlights the continuity of social customs, traditions and religious credos that combine to constrain individuals within traditional unbending roles. They become acid portrayals of oppression and forbearance, combined with gallows and slapstick humor.  Her working class, union, Midwestern background fostered contrasts that are reflected in her work, including an ornery iconoclasm, but mindful of warmth, humanism and family connections.

Fletcher has traveled to a number of third world countries over the years which opened her eyes to conditions in the world but it would take a number of years for her art and activism to merge. She became an observer of nature and the nature of the human condition and her work has focused mainly on environmental concerns. Ironically she sometimes uses animals to express her isms. Her art has become a cathartic experience for her and hopefully gives some playful awareness and insight to her audience.