Huntsville, Ala – The Huntsville Museum of Art (HMA) is pleased to announce the arrival of iconic superheroes to the Tennessee Valley September 11, 2016. The exhibition My Hero! Contemporary Art & Superhero Action presents more than 100 artworks by 51 international artists who have re-envisioned the lives of their favorite superheroes. This pumped-up collection explores untold aspects of the superhero story—their childhood, the Golden years, and alternative lifestyles—in a wide array of media including
painting, illustration, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and video. The exhibition will be on display through December 11.

My Hero! Contemporary Art & Superhero Action was organized by Carrie Lederer, curator of exhibitions for the Bedford Gallery at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California “For decades, artists have tapped the world of the superhero, eager to explore the alluring concept of what it means to have an avatar,” Lederer said. “We’re captivated by miraculous, superhuman
strength, startling bravery, the enthralling adventures, and even their weaknesses.”

Lederer added: “A number of artists are also asking ‘What happens when Superman gets old and checks into Assisted Living?’”

To celebrate the opening of the exhibition, join My Hero! Artist Mark Newport for a Gallery Walk and Opening Reception on Sunday, September 11, at 2 p.m. in the Museum’s Grisham Gallery. Newport will discuss his process of creating oversized knit costumes, which are included in the exhibition. The Huntsville Museum of Art Foundation Board will host a reception following the program. The event is FREE to members and included in general admission for nonmembers.

A nationally-renowned artist residing in Keego Harbor, Michigan, Newport uses superhero imagery in order to explore the issues of identity and define what a “hero” really is. “Turning the superhero inside out is a way for me to present an understanding of masculinity,” he said about his work. “Superheroes suggest strength, but knitting them or covering them with embroidery provides a softness that is contradictory to their image.”

Local support for My Hero was provided by the Alabama State Council on the Arts, Altherr Howard Design, hibu, Inc., and the Huntsville Museum of Art Guild.

The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m. The Museum is closed to the public on Mondays and some major holidays. Admission is $10 for adult, nonmembers; $8 for active military, teachers, and seniors (60+) with a valid ID; $5 for children age 6 and up and students; and $8 per person for groups of 10 or more. Museum members and children 5 and under are admitted FREE. For more information, visit www.hsvmuseum.org or call 256-535-4350.

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