Take a ‘Breather’ at the Contemporary Art Museum

Photo credit: Paul Chan: Breathers, installation view, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, March 8–August 11, 2024. Photography by Dusty Kessler.

WHAT IS THE ART COLLABORATIVE? An interactive, dynamic forum aimed at bringing art to people and people to the art, facilitated by Cynthia Correll and Judith Shaw. The idea is to draw together a diverse, creative community of artists and art enthusiasts interested in sharing ideas, inspiration, resources, and information about what drives their creative passion, process, and purpose. The group meets monthly in different art venues for hands-on, immersive experiences. Our goal is to cross pollinate among innovative institutions, organizations, and neighborhoods to showcase the art landscape in our region.

For Paul Chan, art is a full-bodied experience. He is driven to make multi-dimensional work that moves and engages the viewer’s senses to illustrate a particular movement, moment, or feeling. Breathers consist of vibrant, billowing fabric “ bodies” powered by industrial fans in which Chan uses the free-form figures to investigate personal, societal, and political issues.

We will experience the work with Associate Curator Misa Jefferies who will describe the artists’ intentions, inspiration, and process. She will take us behind the scenes and explain the curatorial challenges of mounting such a physically active and interactive exhibition.

How and where does Chan’s work fit in the current context of contemporary art? This is another topic we will explore as part of the discussion. It should be a stimulating afternoon and we hope you will join us to look, listen, and share your ideas.

You are welcome to stay or come early to enjoy CAM’s newly refurbished AO&Co cafe or view the exhibit on your own.

The museum is fully ADA-accessible.

ADMISSION: Reservation is encouraged for this free Art Collaborative event. Walk-ins are welcome, based on availability.

PARKING: Ample street parking is available around the museum