Your overall theatre experience is expanded with art exhibits in our lobby gallery. Be sure to check out the beautiful work of these visual artists on your next trip to Next Act.
Curator James Toth creates a unique collection of works to complement each Next Act production.
NOT LOCKED DOWN!
Creativity During Covid
April 27 – May 21, 2023
Curated by James Toth
Adversity + Isolation + Uncertainty = Inspiration?
Few things are more daunting to an artist than infinite possibility. The blank canvas or sheet of paper or lump of clay all taunt with a what-are-you-going-to-do-this-time challenge. What does adding the stress of a pandemic do to this dynamic? I wanted to know, so I invited past NAT artists to share a piece of their art created during those 2+ years of chaos. Their response was very positive and I am excited to feature their work along with their stories.
Some found it difficult to work on their art while others found the forced isolation gave them focus. Some delved deeper into their already established themes and techniques while others felt compelled to address the pandemic directly in novel ways. All found that their creative outlets provided a respite from the “storm”, and to an extent, a power of sorts over a situation beyond their control. Ultimately the human spirit will abide, and our artists will help show the way.
Exhibit Hours
The art exhibit opens Thursday, April 27, and is open to the public Monday through Friday, noon to 5 pm, and to the start of any performance.
Additional Information
About God’s Spies
James Toth is a retired art educator, now in his ninth season as Next Act’s volunteer gallery curator. Since the 2014-15 season, he has been curating and installing art exhibits for Next Act’s lobby gallery. Drawing on his connections, he has brought in a wide variety of artists whose work complements Next Act’s productions and enriches patrons theatre experiences. One of Jim’s favorite shows was the exhibit he mounted for THE 12 DATES OF CHRISTMAS, which featured children’s art created by members of the Next Act community. Before retiring, Jim had a two-career history, first as an Art Teacher and K-12 Art Coordinator for the South Milwaukee School District and then as the Director of Exhibits for the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. In addition to his volunteer work for Next Act, he serves on the board for the Milwaukee Area Teachers of Art and as president of the south side community choir Cantare Chorale. He has recently been selected as an Artist-in-Residence for the 2022-23 ARTsservancy program. Jim and his wife Karen are long-time residents of Bay View.