TMA Contemporary Strikes Again

Frank Juárez

In the late ’90s, I remember my professors asking me where I saw myself 5 – 10 years from now. At the time, I found this question so broad that focusing on something specific seemed unimaginable. I am sure this question still lingers through today’s educational institutions. Perhaps a better question would have been to ask what do you want to accomplish in a year? That seems to be more attainable and realistic.

A lot can happen in a year within our creative practice. The 2024 TMA Contemporary Exhibition, which opened on May 18th, is a good example of how artists and art change over a short period of time. For me, the quality of the exhibition is when a majority of the featured artists I do not recognize by art or name. This is a testament that there are a lot of Wisconsin artists out there that are making great art from diverse backgrounds. The jurors are a big part of that journey. Every year this exhibition catches the attention of Wisconsin artists that may have never submitted work to a call for art, have never visited the Trout Museum of Art, artists who want to reach a new audience, and of course, past featured artists. Sprinkled throughout the 3 gallery floors, are artworks and artist names that are recognizable in the ‘art world’, but sometimes you come across a work of art from an artist whose work you are familiar with and find yourself a bit surprised – in a good way. Two artists that come to mind are Willow Bayer and Dan Herro. Bayer in known for her collages and Herro for his paintings. I enjoyed these 3-dimensional intimate spaces that invited me for a closer look. With camera in hand, I was ready to capture some special moments during this anticipated opening reception.

I have been fortunate to have participated as a past featured artist and last year as a co-juror. This time, I attended through a different lens as a supporter and a fellow artist. This year’s TMA Contemporary is co-juried by artists and art professors, Shane Walsh, Michael Velliquette, and TMA Executive Director, Christina Turner. The 2024 TMA Contemporary exhibition runs through September 8, 2024.