Anointing The Artifice, by Caleb Gridley
Exhibition documentation & Q&A by Charles Champagne
The following documentation is in regard to The Art’s Council of Greater Baton Rouge’s Pride Month showcase, “Anointing The Artifice”, by Caleb Gridley, which will be on display from June 1 - July 12, 2024, in the Shell Gallery located inside the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center.
What does this show mean to you?
Caleb: “Anointing the Artifice is both a prayer and malediction to the art of fame. My art functions as a translation of the implicational relationship between audience and celebrity. This exhibition serves as a study of fame, examining those who have it, those who don’t, how it is obtained, and its impact on mainstream mentality both consciously and subconsciously.
Caleb: Three separate bodies of work are on display and in their way each of those delve into the vast realm of how our perception of self can be manipulated through the utilization of digital technology, physical augmentations, and mainstream/social media influences. Anointing the Artifice endeavors to incite profound introspection concerning the essence of self-identity and seeks to engender contemplation on the far-reaching impact of technology, the omnipresence of pop-culture, and the dichotomy of fame.”
What was your reaction when you found out your show was selected for The Art Council’s Pride Month show?
Caleb: “Being chosen to exhibit has been both humbling and exhilarating. It’s a profound sense of recognition for the years of effort that it took to create my current collection of art. It's a moment where someone else sees the value in the world I've constructed through my work. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to share my vision with a wider audience and look forward to them forming their own connections and interpretations.”
How has your experience been navigating life as a queer person/artist here in Southern Louisiana? Any special or sensitive memories come to mind?
Caleb: “Southern Louisiana simmers with palpable energy – a rich gumbo of cultures, traditions, and vibrant contradictions. Growing up within this unique zeitgeist undoubtedly shaped the artist I am today. It instilled in me a critical lens that extends beyond myself, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives.”
Caleb: “This land is no stranger to hardship. We've weathered countless natural disasters, tragedies, and moments of collective loss. Yet, in these moments of vulnerability, our community shines brightest. The outpouring of care, unconditional love, and unwavering support leaves you speechless. It's a testament to the strength and resilience that flows through the veins of Southern Louisiana.”
Caleb: “However, navigating a landscape steeped in tradition also presents its own set of challenges, for not only myself, but countless other individuals whose mere existence challenges the ideals within those traditions. Despite these challenges, I've found a deep appreciation for authenticity in this community. People are genuinely intrigued by artistic expression that fosters open dialogue and challenges perspectives.”
Caleb: “The real struggle transcends Louisiana and speaks to a broader human condition: the fear of the unknown. Humanity, in its current state, tends to reject what it does not understand. My art heavily integrates pop culture, media, and the concept of fame because these forces play a significant role in shaping our collective consciousness. It is imperative for the industries that feed our minds and encapsulate the context of our lifetime to be exponentially inclusive, for they’re not only creating depictions of what will be our history, but also defining the possibilities of our future. They have the power to break down barriers and foster a world where understanding replaces rejection.”
What is one thing that you hope people walk away with from this show?
Caleb: “We live in a world fueled by comparison. A constant barrage of seemingly perfect lives on social media and the ever-present "grass is greener" mentality can leave us feeling diminished. But here's the truth: you are inherently powerful. Trillions of cells conspired to create your rare form, a vessel for a consciousness unlike any other in the vast expanse of humanity. There will always be someone seemingly smarter, funnier, wealthier – the list goes on, but they can never be you.
“Your quirks, your talents, the sum of your experiences – these are the hallmarks of your individuality. These are not flaws to be hidden, but strengths to be celebrated. Imagine a world where every song sounded the same, every brushstroke mirrored another.”
Caleb: “Instead of viewing our differences as dividers, we should celebrate them as the specialized cells that make up the robust organism of humanity. Each individual, with their unique strengths and experiences, contributes a vital function. When we celebrate this diversity of perspectives and talents, we create a symphony of human potential, a powerful force far greater than any individual could achieve alone. This is the essence of true unity – not uniformity, but a collaborative ecosystem thriving on its rich biodiversity. You are a unique expression of life, embrace the power encoded in your very DNA.”
Caleb Gridley, Transmutation
