About Unclad | About UNCLAD |
About UNCLAD: Our history, mission, and team"UNCLAD - The Fine Art of the Figure" is an annual exhibit celebrating the nude figure in art. This highly anticipated annual event draws thousands of visitors together each year for an experience that is unexpected, somewhat provocative, and highly engaging. The intrinsic nature of the subject has motivated artists to explore and push their boundaries, producing a show that inspires, opens minds, starts discussions, stirs emotions, and touches lives. Since its inception, UNCLAD has been a phenomenon that has taken on a life of its own. Seven years ago, Gayle Picken, who was married to a sculptor and managed their Camano Island gallery, decided to celebrate her husband's birthday in an innovative fashion. She invited several local artists to participate in a nude art show at their gallery and, much to her surprise, her phone started ringing off the hook. Artists she didn't even know asked if they could be in the show, excited they had found a venue for displaying nudes. That first year, 29 artists participated, crowds poured into the gallery, and the show was born. Since then, the show has grown exponentially in terms of numbers of participating artists, quality and diversity of the artwork, and attendance. Last year the show featured artwork by 95 artists from across North America; it ran in Stanwood , WA and Portland , OR , attracting over 4000 visitors. More than 30 volunteers helped with planning, promoting, setting up, and greeting visitors during the show. Local businesses advertised in the program and became sponsors. The "by invitation only" Preview Party filled the hall to capacity with artists and patrons eager to get the 'first look.' A special wine tasting event has been included that raised nearly $4000 for the American Cancer Society and events such as a book review, fashion show, and art lecture have helped to broaden the scope and include more community participation. As UNCLAD expands to become a festival known throughout the country, the core idea remains the same as it did during the very first show. The stark-naked truth is --- that this show called UNCLAD is all about having fun in the business of art. For so many people--artists, art enthusiasts, and the community in general--UNCLAD provides excitement, pleasure, anticipation, and a great source of inspiration.
MISSION
The Team
Our Wonderful Volunteers!
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