Go and see work I prepared special for this show entitled, Steve Lambert refused to participate in this exhibition because the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art does not budget for artists fees, mixed media, 2009.

Exhibition: April 4 — June 20, 2009
Opening Reception: Friday April 3, 6-8 PM

It’s Not Us, It’s You is an exhibition that explores the inevitability of rejection in our lives — a timely topic in today’s woeful economic climate. Through a tragic and sometimes heartbreaking lens, the artists in this exhibition respond to the reality of rejection with subversion, self-reflection, humor and brutal honesty. The show is guest curated by artist Ray Beldner and includes paintings, sculpture, video, and multi-media work from artists Anthony Discenza, Stephanie Syjuco, Michael Arcega, Kara Maria, Steve Lambert, Jonn Herschend, Dee Hibbert-Jones, Nomi Talisman, Desiree Holman, Orly Cogan, Kate Gilmore, Robert Eads and Arthur Gonzalez.

As part of It’s Not Us, It’s You, Beldner is compiling a book of artist rejection letters. Artists are invited to send their rejection letters via email to info@sjica.org with “FOR REJECTION SHOW” in the subject by March 28. The ICA promises that no entries will be rejected for this project.

It’s Not Us, It’s You is presented in the ICA’s Focus Gallery, Cardinale Project Room and Night Moves windows (after-dark programming in the ICA’s front windows) from April 4 through June 20. An opening reception on Friday, April 3 from 6-8pm will feature an open-mic session for rejection confessions.