It’s Not About the Weather

From Clamp Light Artist Studios:

“Clamp Light Artist Studios & Gallery is pleased to announce the upcoming exhibition It’s Not About the Weather, a group exhibition about bipolar disorder curated by Mary Margaret Johnson. The exhibition will open to the public with a reception on Friday, August 11th from 6PM-9PM and run from August 11th to September 2nd.

This exhibition explores the multifaceted and complex experiences and realities of bipolar disorder from fifteen Texan artists impacted by this condition, either through personal diagnosis or through the lens of a loved one or family member. The artists include: Ana Champion, Anastasia Rodriguez, Ashleigh Valentine Garza, Cheyenne Amaya, Courtney Warden, Emma Hadzi Antich, Isabel Servantez, Joshua Yurcheshen, Katrina E. Macias, Laura Stevens, Lauren E. Allen, Matt Rebholz, Sy, Samerai Lopez, Rosa Riojas Best (in memory of).

Through a wide range of mediums, It’s Not About the Weather portrays the profound sense of feeling judged, misunderstood, and fear of isolation that often surrounds those living with bipolar disorder. Other works reflect the introspective process of self-discovery, reflection, and acceptance. The stories and experiences depicted in the paintings, textile pieces, photographs, and sculptures spark a shift in societal attitudes, emphasizing the importance of compassion, support, and inclusivity for individuals navigating the complexities of bipolar disorder.

About the curator:
Mary Margaret Johnson, an artist, curator, and educator based in San Antonio, TX, graduated from Sewanee: The University of the South in 2018 with a BA in fine arts. She is a current resident at Clamp Light Studios and Gallery. After being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2018, she struggled with her mental health and stopped creating art. In June 2020, following a manic episode and hospitalization, she rediscovered her passion for art while painting a mural for a family friend. Johnson believes that art has been a powerful tool in navigating her bipolar diagnosis. It’s Not About the Weather reflects her belief in the significance of artwork that goes beyond conventional visual representation, created by individuals with mental and physical impairments.

About Clamp Light Studios and Gallery:
Clamp Light Studios and Gallery was established in 2009 and has been committed to supporting local contemporary artists in South Texas ever since. Clamp Light functions as both a studio space for resident artists and a gallery space for monthly exhibitions. Resident artists work in a variety of media including drawing, collage, installation, sculpture, painting, photography, performance, and new media.”