When it comes to judging art, the process is as subjective as rating erotica. Our visceral reactions dictate our intellectual assessments. Often, I unfairly criticize nude-themed art shows as simply re-framing erotica in a socially acceptable way that can be hung in living rooms instead of hidden in closets. Many fans of burlesque and nude art strongly disagree. They view these art forms as distinct from pornography. Their reasoning is often based on the assumption that art which provokes an intellectual response is superior to that which stirs a carnal reaction.
Case in point. Saturday night at Nude Nite, well-dressed art enthusiasts crowded around a stage, taking pictures of a costumed woman performing on a vertical pole. They said things like, "She's a gymnast," and "She's incredible." I suspect most would have described this display as superior to what happens in a strip club, though I had seen this same performer win the Miss Pole Champ competition at The Pink Pony with a more challenging routine.
With that in mind, below is a sample of the paintings, photographs and mixed media that adorned the walls of Nude Nite Tampa. They are presented here, free of interpretation or criticism, to appease your curiosity and to clue you in to talented artists, many of whom are local. For photographs of the performers, the painted models and the event, see CL photographer Chip Weiner's story on Nude Nite.
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This article appears in Mar 7-13, 2013.