Flowers aren't the only thing blooming at NorthPark Center this spring. The luxury shopping mall brought in a fresh, free exhibition by artist Iván Navarro and VIPs were invited to come steal a glance before it was revealed to the public.
More than 200 art enthusiasts —including Kenny Goss, Anna-Sophia van, Zweden, Terri Provencal, Nick Olney and Rick Del Monte — gathered at this first look party, hosted by Salvatore Ferragamo, for sips and bites by Green House Market and Kona Grill and remarks by Nancy Nasher and Navarro himself. After remarks, he signed copies of his self titled book.
In his exhibit at NorthPark, "This Land Is Your Land," Navarro features three water tower structures that each contain a different neon word or image. The towers are elevated so visitors can walk underneath and take a peek. For the first time, visitors will also be able to view the art from above by climbing to the second level of the shopping center.
Although the exhibition's title borrows from a Woody Guthrie folk song that talks about the freedom and immigrants, Navarro says his piece represents the vast expanse of the American landscape and a democratic society pursued by millions of people. He sees NorthPark as unique setting for his work.
"By positioning 'This Land is Your Land' in NorthPark Center, the viewer is both reminded of this outdoor structure that helps sustain their communities, and is transported within the shopping mall," Navarro says. "Upon walking under the sculpture, the viewer is presented with a temporary visual reality. In a similar manner, shopping malls provide a contained experiential environment outside of daily life."
Navarro lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. He is internationally renowned for his socio-politically charged sculptures of neon, fluorescent and incandescent light.
Proceeds from the night and from Ivan's books sales benefited the Business Council for the Arts.
Natalie Boerder, Kaleta Blaffer-Johnson, Meredith Connally, Jennifer Cifuentes, Nathalie Barrera, Hayden Hrncir.Photo by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio
A quartet played Rodgers and Hammerstein tunes during dinner. Photo by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio