CHANDLER, AZ (AZFamily) — From bats to rats, pigeons to snakes, the Vision Gallery in downtown Chandler is shining a spotlight on the creatures most people try to avoid.
The gallery’s open call exhibition invites visitors to develop empathy for animals often considered creepy, crawly or just plain unlovable, through the eyes of about 60 Arizona artists.
“The main goal of this exhibition is to really celebrate those animals that people might deem as unlovable,” said Jillian Nakornthap, Exhibits Curator for the Vision Gallery. “Maybe they try to avoid them. Maybe they’re scared of them. But really to just celebrate these animals that are not so scary.”
The exhibit features a wide range of artwork reimagining these misunderstood creatures through unique perspectives.
Visitors can also get hands-on with interactive activities, including writing a love letter to an unlovable animal and interacting with a felt version of a creature they might fear.
A make-and-take event is scheduled for August 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., where attendees can make their own pet snakes — an activity expected to be a hit with kids.
The exhibit is free and open to the public through August 15.
Gallery hours:
Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Vision Gallery is located in downtown Chandler. For more information, visit the gallery’s website.
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