GALLERY OPENING: ‘wonsaponatime’ by Anastasia Dengerud

In an exploration of “growing pains,” Anastasia’s exhibit ‘wonsaponatime’ creates a sense of colorful nostalgia that transports the observer to a time we all experienced, when we viewed the world through a child’s eyes. Simultaneously, this exhibit delves into themes of disordered eating, queer joy, intersectionality, and heartbreak through various mediums.

“The pieces in this exhibition have been in the making for years. I find a lot of inspiration in found items and recycling materials. This started when I was a young artist, I rarely got nice art supplies so I often used whatever I had around, I especially loved painting on cereal boxes. I love creating something new from something used, and the found items used in these pieces, particularly the iSpy paintings have individual and important meanings to me.

Much like life and the process of creating, many of these pieces are veiled in a colorful or ‘happy’ demeanor but were not inspired by something so soft. To continue to find joy, to maintain wonder about the world while at war with your own body and mind, all while witnessing the world at war with itself often feels like an impossible resistance. In the process of creating this exhibit, even when experiencing the lowest of lows, I found you can get addicted to the magic, healing, and freedom in creating. I discovered that to allow myself the freedom and grace to explore and make mistakes, I need to let ‘little me’ have the paintbrush. I hope you’re inspired to do the same and create something for yourself today, or anytime you feel that pull.”

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Anastasia Dengerud was born and raised in Panama City and has been creating from a young age. Between performing in music, majoring in theatre, and creating art in various mediums, Anastasia identifies generally as a maker of things and is constantly trying something new.