So depending on how often you go to Georgetown (no judgements) you may or may not have noticed that lululemon Georgetown was just renovated, (by the way, we’re throwing a  FREE, dope GRAND (RE) OPENING PARTY to celebrate, RSVP NOW) and as part of the renovation they now have a second floor art space they’re appropriately calling The Loft. The second floor space will be a communal place for sweat + connection, as well as art exhibitions.

The first exhibition, Transitional Objects, runs through July 16, features local artists, (RSVP for the April 28 opening reception here), and is curated by Amy Hughes Braden (also one of the featured artists) and Sarah Buie.  We went earlier this week for a special sneak peek, and also to find out from the curators a bit more about the first lululemon Loft exhibition, and how fitness and art can be intertwined.

BYT: What was the inspiration behind Transitional Objects and what does the name mean?

Sarah Buie: My background is in the arts, but the past few years I’ve transitioned into the fitness industry. I love working in fitness, but I felt something was missing for me. This gallery has been a way for me to link two passions – art and fitness – together.

Amy Hughes Braden: As far as the concept behind the show, it’s taken from my recent experiences in parenthood. At a check-up for my tiny baby recently, we were discussing sleep with our pediatrician. She said to give him a “lovey” or “transitional object” to wrestle with/hug/hold as he learns how to go to sleep without me. The term “transitional object” tickled me, and consequently stuck in my head. I’ve been thinking about it in my own practice and thought it might be interesting to explore with other artists.

BYT: lululemon is a huge, national company. What does a partnership with them mean for local art/artists?

SB: I find that there are so many people in D.C. interested in learning more about art, but it can be intimidating or overwhelming to connect with local artists. I think this is a great way to bring art into a space that is unexpected and approachable – and if you connect with a piece of work, it’s all for sale!

AHB: As an artist, I’m interested in the opportunity to show my work to a new audience. Initially I was skeptical of aligning myself with the fitness/retail world; I’m much more comfortable in the DIY and non-profit spheres. One of my biggest concerns was that we would be limited in what we could show, both aesthetically and content-wise. But that hasn’t been the case so far, and this partnership feels like it has potential to be a consistent platform for dynamic work.

BYT: What are some highlights of the exhibition?

SB: Each of the artists brings a unique perspective to the idea of Transitional Objects. I’m not sure I could pick a favorite piece, but I definitely feel an emotional connection to Sue Wrbican’s sail. Suspended in mid-air over the exposed rafters of the store, I could daydream in front of this giant white sail forever.

Description

Join us for the opening reception of Transitional Objects - an exhibition of DC based artists in The Loft at lululemon Georgetown. Check out the show, meet the artists, and mingle over small bites and drinks.

Featured artists:

Ani Bradberry

Amy Hughes Braden

Wayson R. Jones

Rodrigo Carazas Portal

Amber Robles-Gordon

Sue Wrbican

Curated by Amy Hughes Braden and Sarah Buie.

Read More: https://brightestyoungthings.com/articles/art-itinerary-transitional-objects