Poem 593, written by one of the most important American female poets, Emily Dickinson, provides in itself the centre for inspiration of downtown Vancouver’s most recent, and anticipated art exhibit at the Fall Tattooing & Artist’s Gallery: “The Dark – felt beautiful.”

A mystical line from Dickinson`s Poem 593, provides a framework in serving as a title for the exhibition of highly illustrative, digital imagery, which will feature artwork from artists Alison Woodward, Megan Majewski, Nomi Chi, Phresha and Elin Jonsson as well as in alluding to the dark, magical, mysterious and beautiful madness as an often unexplored realm of female empowerment.

Ravenous Winter by Megan Majewski.

Bold women, bold art

The Fall has established itself as a space in which traditional artwork gives away to the cutting edge, and progressive marrying of fine arts and inking. In showcasing the artwork of a female-only lineup of artists, as well as having the exhibit based on a poet who is iconic in feminist circles, “The Dark – felt beautiful” reveals of the dark and divine side of womanhood.

“The artwork showcased in ‘The Dark – felt beautiful’ unearths and mirrors not only the detailed, darker work of the artists, but also a taste of highly revered, but often underrated local art,” says Whitney Brennan, curator of the exhibit. In working alongside strong, creative and unique female artists The Fall has manifested into a beautiful combination of tattooing talent, fine art and strong women. The exhibition, which runs from Feb. 13–March 5 in the heart of Downtown, speaks to the abundance of female artists in the city, and their connection to each other, according to Brennan.

“The contemporary alternative scene is definitely thriving and a close knit community as well,” she says.

Dickinson – feminist icon

American poet Emily Dickinson (1830–1886) remained unmarried until her death. She stayed indoors for the majority of her adult life and explored her interest in death and darkness through her words. Her poetry, the majority of which was not published during her lifetime but after her death, is known for not only its obscure subject matter, but its random capitalisation, lack of titles and inconsistent and unconventional rhythm.

Choosing “The Dark – felt beautiful” as the title for the exhibit reflects the authenticity of the gallery, as well as the essence of the art itself. Dickinson, whose work is shrouded in non-conventional, mysterious and dark themes, exemplifies non-traditional methods of finding, and expressing beauty – a darker beauty. The “uglier” side of female figures is exactly what Brennan is hoping to bring to light in the exhibit.

“The pieces show an early and often morbid beauty. I like the idea of feeling the darkness and the tangibility of the dark as it manifests in life and death,” says Brennan.

“The Dark – felt beautiful” presents itself as a progressive link between a non-traditional realm of literature and a non-traditional form of fine artl; in a radical mix of magic, darkness, and transformation, the nature of the show manifests into a celebration of the female figure in poetry, fine art and inking.

“This show is a representation of my strong desire to work alongside, and support female artists. I wanted to bring together female artists whose art shows traditional imagery of beauty, and themselves as strong and passionate individuals,” says Brennan.

For more information : www.thefalltattooing.com