A collaborative effort spanning video media and oil painting, “The Hot Seat” invites viewers to contemplate the passions and concerns of a nebulous group of strangers; their only commonality being their location (Schenley Park) and their agreement to talk on camera. Investigating the “subject” in multiple ways, School of Art Seniors Sarah Kim and Grace Simmons represent their participants in the literal sense of video recording, but also create new portrayals in painting – lasting testaments, or remnants, to these potentially fleeting connections and conversations. The original participants are invited to the show’s opening, to see themselves in this artistic context, and to interact with one another. This event aims to say: we all have intrinsically valuable things to share with one another, and we all have a seat at the table.

Opening Reception: Friday, October 5, 6-9pm