Join us for the opening reception of FOUL PLAY – a solo exhibition by emerging Chicago photographer, Connor Young.

About the show, Connor says:

Foul Play aims to capture the abrasive pairing of vibrant candy and horrifying decay, referencing what it was like growing up queer in a conservative environment. The dichotomy between these two allows me to attract while simultaneously repulsing, creating a sense of stimulation and disgust. The hyper-juxtaposition of these two sensations reminds me of my upbringing, homophobic tendencies only leading to death and decay in my sweet, colorful world.

Sculpture and painting have been a reoccurring practice in my work, constructing simulated environments for the camera. The tangible nature of sculpture grants me full freedom to push the physical boundaries of photography that aren’t possible through visual effects alone. The grim objects within these photographs involve a fabrication process where I sculpt, mold, cast, and paint props to simulate flesh, similar to special effects processes for film and television. Working in this way, my practice can return to the medium that it references, further reinforcing my connection to the art form that has so deeply impacted my development.

Stop by between 6-9pm on July 29th. Guests must show proof of vaccination upon arrival. A card-only bar will be available for purchase. All artwork will be available to purchase as is listed and any works over $300 will be eligible for financing.

About the artist:

Connor Young is a photographer and multimedia artist who constructs images with juxtaposing themes between childhood nostalgia and provocative horror. Born in Des Moines, IA and currently based in Chicago, IL, Young uses both found and handmade objects to construct the eerie vignettes captured in his subliminal photographs. Beginning with drawings inspired by favorite films from childhood, his practice has expanded greatly – eventually pursuing a BFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, set to graduate in 2023. His film works have premiered in film festivals including the Wicked Queer Film Festival (Boston, MA) and the Iowa Motion Picture Awards (Pella, IA). Young’s photographs have been exhibited in galleries like Filter Space (Chicago, IL), 3 Square Art Center (Fort Collins, CO), and Stola Contemporary Art (Chicago, IL). Young hopes to express elements of his past experiences as a queer child in the Midwest through the synthesization of beloved media, eliciting a dynamic sense of recognition with the viewer who visually feasts on tableaux of saturated colors and nostalgic iconography.

About the space:

The Martin is an artist-first full service creative space led by Founder & Curator, Whitney LaMora. Launched in June of 2018, The Martin has proudly been home to over 450 public events. Relocated in 2021 because of COVID-19, The Martin now shares a home with beloved neighborhood restaurant, Split-Rail.

Want to pair your show experience with dinner at Split-Rail? We recommend making a reservation!

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Tags: Chicago, Connor Young, Foul Play, The Martin, West Town