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Archived Exhibit |
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Anthony Valenzuela Collection
a compilation of nudes from the fifties
June 2 – June 30, 2007
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Opening Reception
Saturday
June 2, 6 – 9 pm
Rebecca V Gallery
3010 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98406
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There was an almost ritualistic coming of age in the fifties and sixties in viewing photographs
such as this compilation, The Anthony Valenzuela Collection, on display at the Rebecca V
Gallery. It is an art form that was forced to remain under the cover of the beds of young men.
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Following the explosion of pinup drawings that were oh so popular during the WWII era, the
demand and craving for a more realistic image of the female form was met by the rise of nude
photography in the 1950s and 1960s. These photographs were much like traditional pinup
paintings in that they combined the elements of sex and everyday life activities. |
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This art form rose from an underground movement that was criticized by moral enthusiasts to
becoming recognized by the masses as art. With the rise of iconic images that epitomized
Americana at this time such as Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page and the images found in Playboy.
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These photographers worked to capture the complex innocence yet mischievous tease and allure
of the suggestive nature of nudity within photography. Though controversial, many people were
drawn to this appreciative display of the true female figure.
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With this exhibition we invite you to view an exotic yet familiar example of a classic art
form in which the female figure is highly prized and worshipped. Capturing the private moment
in everyday life while highlighting the beauty of the female form, each photograph tells a
story.
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