NIGHTMARE ON MAIN STREET, Juror Lauren La Bella

Nightmare on Main Street, Student Exhibition
Juror Lauren La Bella
October 21,- November 12, 2022

*featured image Where the Kittens Come to Play by Joseline Canales_Lazo

Each year the Nightmare on Main Street call to artists includes a statement from the juror to inspire the students (grades 6- 12) to broaden their artistic interpretation of the Halloween inspired exhibition. This year Lauren La Bella chose the following: During the Bubonic Plague, the Plague Doctor became a momento mori, a symbol for one’s last earthly moments, as this was usually the last thing a person would see before meeting their death. The long beak of the mask was filled with herbs and spices that were believed to filter out the “bad spirit”, protecting the wearer from those he was visiting; the long, waxy coat and hat protecting their skin and clothes underneath. A long staff was used to make contact with the bodies without having to touch them directly. This ominous uniform, once functional and commonplace, became a masquerade costume for those celebrating the Venetian Carnival, a time where one could conceal their identity while partying and living freely for a short time, once a year. This frightening yet beautiful disguise was just one of the many characters to choose from. Similarly, Halloween is a once-a-year opportunity to disguise yourself or be unknown, and to celebrate the darker parts of life. In the medium of your choice, show us how you interpret these concepts.

Just under 200 pieces from 145 artists were submitted this year to Nightmare on Main Street. One of the highest submissions in the history of the show. The work does not disappoint. Our Juror, Lauren La Bella has chosen 41 pieces to be featured in the Main Street Gallery and on our website. In recognition of the dedication and enthusiasm the students have shown for this call to artists, we have decided to expand the online gallery to include a special section (see below) so that all of the artists’ who had work that was submitted can be shared with the community.

To download the student artist booklet, click here.