2nd Story is an exhibition space in Lexington, Kentucky that presents curatorial projects and public programs.
Founded on the values of curatorial freedom, artistic experimentation, and open dialogue, we challenge exhibiting artists to take risks in creating new work and encourage the public to embrace all forms of contemporary art practices.
By fostering rigorous acts of making and generative ways of engaging, we hope to stimulate expansive approaches to thinking.
UPCOMING PROGRAM WEDNESDAY, NOV 12 (5:15 to 6:15 pm)
Miriam Kienle and Josh Porter discuss their collaborative projects rooted in the Faulkner Morgan Archive, reflecting on how curators and community archives can expand what is exhibited, valued, and remembered, and how these partnerships affirm belonging while reshaping the historical record.
UPCOMING PROGRAM MONDAY, NOV 17 (5:30 to 6:30 pm)
Dr. Bess Dawson discusses female-animal hybrids in folklore, most specifically on mermaids and Hans Christian Andersen’s depiction in his iconic tale, “The Little Mermaid.” This talk highlights themes of selfhood and rejection, a woman’s sacrifice and worth as well as the societal levels of the sea versus land.
UPCOMING PROGRAM SUNDAY, NOV 23 (4:00 to 5:00 pm)
What is queer theory? What does "queer materiality" mean? How do contemporary artists engage with these ideas and integrate them into their work? This virtual panel discussion includes artists Soso Capaldi, Feather Chiaverini, and Jesse Harrod in conversation with curator Kyle Herrington.
ZOOM LINK: https://temple.zoom.us/j/99136273475
CURRENT EXHIBITION
BIRDS OF A FEATHER
Feather Chiaverini is an artist who makes costumes, props, and performances that explore issues related to class, skill, and queer theory. In a celebration of queer joy, history, and community, the artist has created costumes and objects inspired by photographs found in the Faulkner Morgan Archive, particularly images showing mermaid tails, showgirl headpieces, and other queer ephemera from pride festivals and parade floats.
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