The Unseen Conversations in Art: A Deep Dive into South Bend’s ‘Around the Bend’ Exhibition
There’s something profoundly human about walking into an art exhibition and feeling like you’ve stumbled into a silent conversation. That’s exactly what the South Bend Museum of Art’s ‘Around the Bend’ exhibition achieves—and it’s not just because of the 240 local artists featured. What makes this particularly fascinating is how curator Frances Jacobus-Parker has transformed the space into a dialogue between pieces, themes, and even artists themselves. It’s not your typical gallery experience, and that’s what makes it so compelling.
The Art of Juxtaposition: Why Placement Matters
One thing that immediately stands out is Jacobus-Parker’s approach to curating. Instead of grouping works by medium or style, she’s created a visual symphony where pieces with contrasting or complementary themes face each other. Take the Slaski brothers, for example: Mike’s vibrant abstraction hangs opposite Fred’s stark black-and-white photograph. Personally, I think this kind of juxtaposition forces viewers to engage more deeply with the art. It’s not just about admiring a single piece; it’s about understanding how it relates to the broader narrative of the exhibition.
What many people don’t realize is that this method of curation is a subtle form of storytelling. By placing works in conversation with one another, Jacobus-Parker is inviting us to see connections we might otherwise miss. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s part of a larger cultural and emotional tapestry.
The Hidden Artists Among Us
Another detail that I find especially interesting is the sheer diversity of the artists featured. These aren’t just professional artists; they’re grocery store clerks, teachers, and parents who are deeply committed to their creative practice. Jacobus-Parker herself was surprised to discover how many artists in her community she’d unknowingly crossed paths with. This raises a deeper question: How many hidden creators are in our own circles, quietly pursuing their passions?
From my perspective, this aspect of the exhibition highlights the democratization of art. It’s not just for the elite or the professionally trained—it’s for anyone with something to express. The open-call submission process, which accepts works from eight counties in Indiana and Michigan, underscores this inclusivity. Sure, there are size restrictions, but the focus is on accessibility, not exclusivity.
Pushing the Boundaries of What Art Can Be
What this really suggests is that art is evolving, and exhibitions like ‘Around the Bend’ are at the forefront of that evolution. Take Anna Johnson’s tribal Native American regalia or Hillary Irene Johnson’s plant-based photo paper suspended from the ceiling. These pieces challenge traditional definitions of art and push the boundaries of what a gallery can showcase.
If you take a step back and think about it, this kind of experimentation is crucial for the art world’s growth. It’s easy to get stuck in the familiar—canvas paintings, sculptures, photographs—but artists like these remind us that creativity knows no bounds. Jacobus-Parker’s willingness to include such diverse works speaks to her vision as a curator. She’s not just displaying art; she’s curating an experience that challenges and inspires.
The Role of Regional Museums in Shaping Art History
Here’s where things get really interesting: regional museums like the South Bend Museum of Art are more than just exhibition spaces. They’re archivists of local culture, chronicling the artistic evolution of their communities. Jacobus-Parker’s question about the meaningful role of regional museums in an increasingly digital and globalized world is spot-on. In an era where art can be accessed online, what makes a physical space like this essential?
In my opinion, it’s the sense of place and community. When a show comes down, the digital images might remain, but the experience of standing in front of a piece, feeling its texture, and engaging with its surroundings is irreplaceable. Regional museums like this one are writing the art history of their communities, one exhibition at a time.
The Curator as Community Builder
What many people don’t realize is that curators like Jacobus-Parker are more than just organizers of art—they’re community builders. Her hands-on approach, working directly with artists to ensure their works are displayed as intended, is a testament to her commitment to both the art and the artists. This isn’t just about putting pieces on a wall; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and validation for creators who might otherwise go unnoticed.
From my perspective, this is where the true value of ‘Around the Bend’ lies. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of the creative spirit that thrives in everyday people. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just for galleries or museums—it’s for everyone.
Final Thoughts: Why This Exhibition Matters
If you’re in South Bend before August 23, I urge you to visit ‘Around the Bend.’ But don’t just walk through the gallery—engage with it. Pay attention to the conversations happening between the pieces, the stories of the artists, and the broader themes at play. Personally, I think this exhibition is a masterclass in how art can bring people together, challenge our perceptions, and celebrate the creativity that exists all around us.
What this really suggests is that art, at its core, is about connection. Whether it’s the connection between artists, between art and viewer, or between the past and present, ‘Around the Bend’ reminds us of the power of creativity to unite and inspire. And in a world that often feels divided, that’s a message worth celebrating.
Exhibition Details:
- Where: South Bend Museum of Art, 120 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., South Bend
- When: Through August 23
- Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays; open until 8 p.m. the first Friday of each month
- Cost: Free
- More Info: southbendart.org
So, what are you waiting for? Go see it. And when you do, take a moment to think about the unseen conversations happening all around you—both in the art and in your own life. After all, isn’t that what art is all about?
