Another SFW Public Newsletter, 7-22-2024
A demo at OMA and some unexpected media attention.
This is a piece I just started working and turned into a demonstration of how I do things at this months Coffee at Oma. At the end I offered pens and tools to people watching so they could mark on the underprint the way I do. Looking forward to this piece with so many hands on it surviving (...or not) when I finish it. Here is where this train-blur is at so far:
I am looking very much the artist as far as the Media is concerned this month. I did an interview with Albert Fulcher (editor of East County Californian). It was a lot of fun and occurred because an independent media hustler arranged it to promote the OMA show I am in. The rational is that I am an east county artist...
Using that rational Albert was also interested in a show where I am featured at the Studio Door. Patric wrote a very nice news release based (in part) on a video interview he did of me for a local TV news channel. He then sent it to Albert. Neither the newspaper or the news show have aired yet but here is Patric's news release:
Artist Richard ChauDavis’ Provocative Visions Featured in National Art Exhibit
East County artist Richard ChauDavis is set to captivate art enthusiasts with his evocative works as a featured artist in August’s Liberated Forms visual arts exhibition at The Studio Door in San Diego. Known for his bold and boundary-pushing art, ChauDavis brings a unique perspective to the celebration of diversity and desire that defines the exhibition.
ChauDavis began his artistic journey at the College of Creative Studies in Santa Barbara, where he explored various mediums, including etching and photography. His work often delves into the depths of human experience, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of traditional art. ChauDavis' art is characterized by its raw and unfiltered exploration of sexuality, making it both provocative and thought-provoking.
"I started really creating art while in college," ChauDavis explains. "I was mainly focused on writing, but the college had a darkroom and printing presses allowing us to create whatever we wanted. I did some etchings and have been creating art ever since."
After graduating, ChauDavis transitioned to photography, capturing images that often blurred the lines between reality and fantasy. His work evolved over the years, incorporating elements of painting and digital manipulation to create multi-layered pieces that defy categorization. ChauDavis' art is a testament to his refusal to be confined by conventional artistic boundaries.
“Full disclosure, my current artwork is sexual. Every once in a while, I do something that isn't, but mostly it is. I have a huge repository of photos I took from my black room stage when I was doing photography. I digitized them all and now use them to create under-prints because I wanted to get back to painting. I like the idea of working with the image. I use Micron pens and acrylics to create a complete image. I like using the sense of reality you get from a photograph."
ChauDavis' commitment to exploring the complexities of human sexuality through his art has earned him a reputation as a fearless and innovative artist. In July, his artwork was celebrated as part of an exhibit at Oceanside Museum of Art, where his work invited viewers to confront their own perceptions and engage in meaningful dialogue about the nature of desire and identity.
Liberated Forms exhibition will feature 100 artworks from 39 artists representing 13 states. The national exhibition, running from August 8 to 31, 2024, at The Studio Door (3867 4th Ave, Hillcrest, San Diego), is a celebration of body and sex-positive visual art. Gallery visitors can expect the exhibition to embrace diverse forms of sexuality through its celebration of body and sex-positive visual art.
As Patric Stillman, Gallerist of The Studio Door, states, "Exhibiting erotic art is not merely about showcasing sensuality; it's a celebration of artistic freedom and a profound exploration of the human condition. By embracing the full spectrum of human experience, we honor the courageous voices of artists and reaffirm our commitment to the principles of free expression and creative exploration.”
Kicking off the Liberated Forms exhibition, SKINZ Fashion Show promises to be an unforgettable evening of leather and fashion. Produced by Earl Gray, Mr. San Diego Leather 2024, the show will feature daring designs from Moose Leather and DetoXXX Leather. Models will showcase the finest leather craftsmanship, pushing the boundaries of style and sensuality. SKINZ Fashion Show will be emceed by the charismatic Nadya Simone. Doors open at 6 PM, with the runway show starting at 7 PM. Admission is by suggested donation of $10 with proceeds going to TransFamily Support Services.
An artist reception with Richard ChauDavis will be open free to the public on Saturday, August 10, in the afternoon from 2 - 5 PM.
Visitors to the exhibition, fashion show and reception can expect a mature content warning and a strict code of conduct. To ensure a respectful environment, guests must be 18 years or older and present valid ID. Additionally, photography will be prohibited in the gallery, preserving the integrity and privacy of the artworks on display.
For further information, visit TheStudioDoor.com.
I am very touched by this summary and honored to be in this NSFW 18+ show. Collaborating with Michelle of Ray St Framers on the framing. I asked if she could frame each piece as it should be framed in her eyes, giving no input other than that I will figure out a way to pay her (thank you patrons). Two of the pieces will have leather frames which I think appropriate and fun.
'Rising Muse' One of the framed pieces for The Studio Door's show 'Liberated Forms'
