Artists drew outlandish phrases from a deck of cards last Friday and then had 24 hours to execute pieces of art based on the phrases to be displayed for a pop-art show on Saturday.
This Cards Against Humanity themed pop-up art show held above the Pedal House in downtown Laramie was a collaboration between Studio 24 and members of the Student Art League (SAL). The exhibit featured 18 local artists showcasing pieces from finger paintings to photography.
Each participating artist drew one white “answer” card, one black “question” card, or a combination of the two. What was written on the card was the inspiration for their piece, interpreted however the artist chose. They then had only 24 hours to submit the work.
Despite this time restraint, Ezra Hanson, a freshman art major, said the process was fairly simple.
“I went into the lobby, drew cards [from the deck], and I drew literally what was on the cards.” Hanson submitted two pieces to the gallery.
Ryan Parker, a post baccalaureate student at UW, said the event was spontaneous. “We were looking for a fundraiser for this spring, because all of us who are graduating this semester want to leave some money for next year’s SAL club,” said Parker, “so we just sat down with fundraiser ideas and someone threw out Cards Against Humanity as a theme, and when we got together yesterday afternoon, we were all like, ‘Yeah, let’s do that.’”
Parker also said that local businesses have been very welcoming to up-and-coming artists in recent years.
“I think we’re seeing a large rise to [pop-up galleries], thanks to the downtown businesses. They’ve been really nice about discounting one-night rentals for spaces.”
The Pedal House especially, has been known to host art galleries in the past. Noelle Johnson, SAL secretary, said that they were very interested in the event.
“They gave us a price and said, ‘As long as the date’s empty, this is the greatest location,’” said Johnson. “I think this is going to be a great hit place for pop-ups.”
As for future collaborative galleries, the SAL members said they are very receptive to the idea. Parker believes it is the future form of presentation.
“I think that’s just where the student body’s going; they like doing the group events, they like to partner with different organizations, coming together to make art. We’ll be seeing a lot more of these.”
