Ricochet is a month long, dynamic experience that bridges the gap between visual and performance art.  New work in acrylic by Michael Pukac and Rye McNeill will come to life every weekend at Paradigm art.  However, unlike traditional tableau vivant which is a static staging of a painting (usually an old masterwork), this Tableau Vivant Nouveau is a collaborative effort that combines each team members’ individual vision to create a collective outcome that is borne from pure creative process.  The paintings will come to life with acting, music and dancing, puppetry, costumes and lighting design.  The Tableau Vivant Nouveau allows the ideas of the actors, dancers, puppeteers, musicians, lighting designers, choreographers, and costumers to ricochet off one another.  The result is a living, breathing work of art that reflects how a team of individuals were inspired by one painting.  

The culmination of this project will occur with the viewer.  The statement of the piece will continue to ricochet as the viewers bring their context to the painting, and to the Tableau Vivant Nouveau.  Generally when viewing art, the viewer must set aside their own context and read the piece in it’s own context.  Ricochet allows the viewer to contribute to the creative process by applying his or her individual vision to the interpretation of the piece.  This exhibition asks the viewer to explore their own responses to works of art. 

“This project attempts to unify the Sarasota arts community-- to bring the theater patrons and the visual arts patrons together in one venue.  Contemporary art culture encompasses all of the arts.  In order to truly understand the movement of the time we are living in, it is important to step outside our comfort zones and and experience what is being created in other disciplines.” says gallery owner, Katrina Costedio. 

Ten percent of all profit from Ricochet will benefit Second Chance Last Opportunity.  SCLO is a not-for-profit organization, 501(c)3, that targets services to youth and their families with no or low income. Contact at SCLO,  Amy Lovejoy: 941.360.8660.  www.secondchancelastopportunity.com

For a schedule of Ricochet events or for information regarding the rest of the Ricochet team or sponsorship opportunities please visit www.paradigmartgallery.com or contact the gallery.  Paradigm Art, 1540A Main Street, Sarasota  34236.  941.955.4696, paradigmart@yahoo.com.  Gallery hours, 11-6 Tues, Wed, 11-8 Thurs-Sat and by appointment.