Here’s a sneak peek at the Deadstock show coming up at Compound that I’ve curated. Also below is the wonderful write up about the show by Jen Delos Reyes. Here’s the link for the event on Facebook.

In the world of retail, merchandise that does not leave the shelves or the warehouse is destined to become deadstock. These forgotten relics of commerce can sometimes get a second chance, once again returning to the marketplace to fulfill their intended function. How does art become deadstock, and once it does, how does it once again serve a purpose? For the exhibition Deadstock at Compound Gallery curator Jason Sturgill posited that very question, and proposed an objective. What could be seen as the disregarded products of artists studios are being dusted off and brought to show, some for the first time. These pieces are the surplus of creativity, and fittingly they are being used to foster the creativity of others. Part of the proceeds of the sales from this show go to benefit the Right Brain Initiative program of the Regional Art and Culture Council. This initiative recognizes that the arts enhance all aspects of education, and seeks to give all K-8 students in the region access to the arts. 

Much of the work that Jason Sturgill does as a cultural worker is about making connections— this can range from connecting individuals and organizations, to how he explores how art can support business, and how business can support art. In the true sense of the word Jason is a connector, a person who aids another in achieving their goal, and in this case the goal is to support the incredible efforts of the Right Brain Initiative through sharing his connections to the artists featured in Deadstock. 

Deadstock opens on Thursday February 2nd, 2012 at 7pm. The show is cash and carry, pay and take.

About the Right Brain Initiative: 
Launched in 2008, The Right Brain Initiative promotes whole brain learning. Our vision is to give every K-8 student in the region access to the arts regardless of neighborhood, language, or income. Through an effort that engages the entire community, we’re creating long-term, lasting change within our school systems. 
http://therightbraininitiative.org/ 


About Jason Sturgill: 
Is a culture worker with a background in advertising, design and various curatorial practices. Having worked for Wieden+Kennedy, Dark Horse Comics, Laika, and Nike along with running his own online art gallery has heavily influenced his art practice which centers around the intersection of art and local business. Sturgill is currently participating in the MFA program in Art and Social Practice as well as teaching graphic design at Portland State University.
http://jasonsturgill.com 

Work from the show above by Carson Ellis, Phil Marden, Ashley Goldberg, Thomas Bradley and Chris Johanson