The Art Center is thrilled to announce the opening of “Consumed,” a provocative and thought-provoking exhibition by renowned artist Beth Wittenberg. The exhibition opens on July 8 and will run through the end of August.
“Consumed” explores the relentless cycle of consumption and waste in our society. Through her art, Wittenberg examines the vast amounts of food, paper, and packaging she and her family consume, highlighting the never-ending stream of recyclable paper products. Her project questions the necessity of this excessive packaging and the role of advertising in perpetuating it.
“I started tracking everything my family consumed,” says Wittenberg. “I began to see the overwhelming amount of waste generated, not just by us, but on a neighborhood level and even globally. Why do we need all this packaging? It’s all about advertising—they sell us pretty pictures, and we eat it up. It’s consumption.”
Wittenberg’s reflections on consumption extend beyond physical waste. Her work delves into the existential crisis and sense of desperation she perceives in today’s world. “I feel like I’m speaking for those disillusioned by the status quo,” she explains. “I’m giving voice to the existential crisis I see happening—a generation disillusioned.”
Beth Wittenberg’s art is raw, aggressive, and challenging. It draws inspiration from street art and graffiti, presenting a provocative and multi-layered narrative that challenges viewers to make sense of the chaos. “My art is not pretty,” Wittenberg asserts. “It’s hard to look at. I leave it to the viewer to interpret the myriad elements within the picture plane.”
Consumed will be on display at the Art Center Now through the end of August with a reception on Saturday, August 3, from 6pm to 9pm. The public is invited to attend.
Please visit the Art Center located at 1 Washington Street, Suite 1177, Dover, NH. Gallery hours are Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm and Saturday 10am – 2pm. Visit www.theartcenterdover.com or call 603-978-6702 for more information.