It is within the scope of human nature to question one’s sanity every once and a while, or at least that’s what people tell themselves. That feeling as though you are teetering along the fine line between lucidly neurotic and certifiably insane, is common to be sure. The possibilities of the mind are incredible, but at times that great expanse can fragment and ultimately shatter. We identify with that lose of control; that fear of the unknown within us.
In its latest exhibit, “Lunatic Fringe,” The Soulard Art Market and Contemporary Art Gallery is exploring the nature of insanity. Its tag line reads: What does being a lunatic mean to you? Through the works of 30 artists, one sees the many dimensions and manifestations of lunacy. Each artist puts on display a journey into his or her own madness.
This dark and, at times, chilling exhibit is housed in a former doctor’s office. The sterility of a place where people once came to treat their physical and mental health is an ironic setting for this haunting show. The exhibit rests in the office’s waiting room turned main gallery space. The exhibit promises that “The good, bad and other side of what circulates in one’s mind, memories and psyche will be shown.” This imaginative show jumps from the surreal to the creepy. Among the images shown, some are violent in their aggression. Others are comically disturbed. One of the installations displays a teddy bear that holds its dismembered pelt in its paw. A sign in front of the work warns the viewer, for his or her own protection, not to feed or touch the stuffed animal.
Some artworks are meant to disconcert the viewer. These images are disturbing and leave one with an unsavory taste in their mouth. The juxtaposition of the tame and putrid seems to mimic the fluctuating severity with which insanity can grasp a person’s mind.
Of the 30 mostly local artists being exhibited, there are four special guest artists: Aunia Kahn, Tim “Type” Jordan, Jim Charette, and Jennifer Weigel. Outside of the main gallery space, the rest of the building is divided into small exhibition rooms. Each room is occupied by works from one or two of the gallery’s resident artists. There are rooms devoted to metal sculptures, glassworks, photography, hand-made jewelry, kitchy painting, and some truly avant-garde pieces. The artwork is varied, both in medium and artistic value.
What is perhaps most disconcerting about Lunatic Fringe is its relatability. One identifies with the works. It is easy to put yourself in the artist’s shoes and understand their inner turmoil. It makes the viewer question the sanity of those around them. But most uncomfortably of all, it makes one wonder what their own mind is capable of. This window into the world of insanity is part of the greater St. Louis art scene and is worthy of exploration. Lunatic Fringe is showing at Soulard Art Market, 2028 S. 12th Street. The show runs from Sept. 11 through
