I generally like to write about art that I encounter outside of Sidetracked Studio, but I’ve been fielding lots of questions about our latest show “ For Your Eyes Only”. The show is all Fine Art Erotica pieces. The most asked question was “What’s the difference between porn and erotica?” I wasn’t sure, so I looked it up! The Miriam Webster dictionary defines pornography as “the depiction of erotic behavior (as in pictures or writing) intended to cause sexual excitement. They define erotica as “works of art or literature that deal with sex and are meant to cause sexual feelings : erotic works “. So basically, no difference!!
People tend to classify pornography as something “dirty” or “forbidden”. Erotica on the other hand, sounds a little more sophisticated, or acceptable. I think a lot of people are very uncomfortable with viewing porn / erotica in a public setting, which I can understand. (That’s why you can view the show online here.) Porn/erotica is all in the eye of the beholder. What you find distasteful, I may find very beautiful. That’s what makes this show so intriguing. The artistry and creativeness is undeniable. There are several pieces I found absolutely stunning. ( On Sale at Your Favorite Newsstand by Kelis Houlihan) (The torso by Thomas Wharton)
Some made me uncomfortable. A few made me giggle. (Chris Riccardo’s “Selfie”). Most surprised me because the beauty and detail just couldn’t be gleamed over the internet.
Art should involve feelings. This art definitely does! It might make you uncomfortable, or it might totally turn you on! Either way, don’t be afraid to move out of your comfort zone and come see “For Your Eyes Only”. Who knows? You might just find a unique Christmas gift for someone special.
-Michele
