Stacy Conde: Weaving Visual Art and Narrative Alchemy
by Dylan Vigil
The discourse surrounding Stacy Conde's work often highlights her dedicated support for the artists she represents, yet there remains an underreported facet: her own prolific contributions as an artist. While she's celebrated for elevating diverse voices and nurturing artist’s careers, the narrative often overlooks Conde's significant endeavors as a creator in her own right. This article aims to unveil the multifaceted nature of Conde's work, shedding light on her dual roles as both a passionate advocate for artists and a talented creator.
In the intricate fabric of the art world, Stacy Conde emerges as a luminary figure traversing the realms of curation and storytelling. As the driving force behind Conde Contemporary gallery, her artistic vision transcends boundaries, inviting audiences into immersive experiences that blur the lines between visual art and narrative.
Among her exhibitions, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" stands as a testament to Conde's skill in crafting surreal environments. Here, a primordial garden materializes at midnight, illuminated by celestial "stars" and Courtney Egan's evocative light-based artworks. This exhibition, draped in shadows and punctuated by focused light on each individual artwork, captivates viewers, inviting contemplation on the intricate interplay between light and darkness, good and evil.
Another narrative woven into Conde's tapestry of exhibitions revolves around "Idols of the Tribe". Rooted in the work of Sir Francis Bacon, and the title of her blog, “Idols of The Tribe” delves into the fallacies of perception and the inherent distortion in the human understanding of reality.
Conde confronts historical narratives, questioning the implications of power, domination, and the suppression of wisdom, particularly concerning women. She challenges the notion of disregarding idols and embraces the idea that perception shapes the universe, echoing the voices of those historically silenced wise women.
In the literary realm, Conde's book, "The Red Speck", is a tribute to her narrative prowess. Through lush, sensuous imagery and raw emotional depth, the story unfolds, chronicling Sophie's ethereal journey towards psychological wholeness. Here, readers traverse an unknown yet strangely familiar world, encountering archetypal characters resonant with the vibrant hues of Miami and the old South. Conde's gift for grounding spiritual experiences within the visceral reality of the human body echoes the emotive mastery reminiscent of Rumi's poetry.
Sophie's odyssey becomes a mirror for readers, offering profound insights into their own inhibitions hindering happiness. Conde's ability to take airy spiritual and psychological experiences and anchor them within the palpable, emotionally engaging scenes allows Sophie's transformation from leaden emotions to golden freedom to resonate within the reader's own quest for liberation.
Conde's unexpected move to Natchez, Mississippi at the beginning of the pandemic, birthed the nonprofit Arts Danu, a sanctuary fostering artistic growth and cultural enrichment. Arts Danu is a functioning example of Conde's dedication to nurturing creativity, offering a haven where artists, students and enthusiasts alike converge in pursuit of artistic excellence.
At the heart of Arts Danu lies the visionary initiative, Allumer Natchez, an annual celebration that illuminates the town with a light-based art exhibition and festival. This transformative event not only redefines the cultural landscape of Natchez but also serves as a paid opportunity for regional artists to exhibit their work. Allumer Natchez is a beacon, drawing art aficionados from near and far, fostering a vibrant expression of creativity that echoes Conde's own desire for cultural exchange and artistic exploration.
Her notable collaborations with both emerging and well established artists, including José Bedia and Rubén Torres Llorca, underscore her commitment to providing platforms for their distinct expressions. Conde’s ability to intertwine visual art with captivating narratives reflects a visionary spirit, inviting audiences not just to observe but to immerse themselves in realms that provoke introspection and transformation.
Stacy Conde's commitment to artistic innovation cements her as a trailblazer at the intersection of visual art and storytelling. Her exhibitions and literary contributions are not mere spectacles but catalysts for personal exploration and transcendence, making her a guiding light in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.
Stacy Conde in front of Conde Contemporary, 2023
Photo Credit Kaelin Daye