Shelly McCoy’s First of Many Retrospectives

Merriam Webster – retrospective: a generally comprehensive exhibition, compilation, or performance of the work of an artist over some time

It may be premature to call Shelly McCoy's exhibition a retrospective, but the body of work showcased at the Bernice Steinbaum Gallery is undoubtedly reminiscent of one. The exhibit features work spanning the last six years, including works that have just come "off the press." McCoy intricately uses clothes and iron, tools evocative of those 1950s housewives traditionally used in their everyday lives. In this exhibition, McCoy as a liberal artist, finds a connection to these women as portraying her subjects through the medium of textiles. There is a touch of irony and even a hint of humor in this scenario.

The exhibition features commissioned portraits created entirely with fabric—that imitate paint. One notable work depicts a gay man dressed in high heels, earrings, and lipstick. We are drawn to him, especially as he reveals that he can only dress like this on Sundays when all the shades are drawn in his house. Two of the most recent works in the show serve as an homage to Kamala Harris and Liz Cheney. The artist reminds us that these two women should never be forgotten for their bravery and the sacrifices they have made.

The exhibition closes with a work made from condoms, and the artist thanks everyone for coming.

Opening on Saturday, March 22nd, from 4 - 8 PM at 2101 Tigertail Ave, Miami FL 33133. Don’t miss this thought-provoking exhibition!

The gallery staff and I are curious about her next retrospective and we hope that she will take on fabricating a book.