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MAKEUP HERE AND NOW

History

Makeup's extensive history in global cultures has developed many variations for applications for both artistic and cultural expression. Its recent rapid growth in popularity has produced clashing ideas regarding its significance for representation, both politically and artistically. Toronto is an ideal location to explore these deeper meanings from international perspectives through a photography exhibition like never before. Sociological and psychological academic publications have explored the value of makeup in contemporary society, demonstrating that makeup contains meaning beyond a conventual beauty tool. We believe this is an ideal time for exploring these ideas to provide a platform to generate additional conversations from artistic, ethnographic, and political perspectives.

Mission

Made-Up Toronto is an original art exhibit exploring makeup is a powerful artistic tool for cultural and self-expression. Despite makeup's most recent boom in popularity, the exploration of makeup’s contemporary artistic and cultural relevance has had limited representation by museums and art galleries to date. Using an ethnographic lens, Made-Up Toronto will explore makeup and its uses in Toronto’s multicultural landscape.

Vision​

This photograph-based exhibition will showcase the many uses, interpretations, and opportunities makeup offers for cultural and personal self-expressive, demonstrated by members of Toronto's cultural mosaic. Collaborating with Downtown Yonge B.I.A., and Free Space, curators Sarah Rolko and Jessica Svenningson will be working with photographer Leeor Wild, exploring the sociology, anthropology and artistry of contemporary makeup. With this exhibition we hope to:

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  1. Spread awareness of the artistic integrity and capability of makeup as an artistic tool, expression of personal and cultural identity, and social activator.

  2. Define a new method to showcase the multicultural mosaic that is the city of Toronto.

  3. Provide a platform to open conversations surrounding polarizing ideas about makeup from a subtle feminist perspective.

Values and Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

In collaboration with Downtown Yonge B.I.A. (Business Improvement Area), Free Space Creative Incubator, and the University of Toronto, we are:

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  • Passionate about the vital contribution of arts and culture to society in Ontario;

  • Responsive to the diverse needs and values of the people who work in the arts and cultural sector in Ontario; ​

  • Collaborative and inclusive in the delivery of relevant and practical programs, resources and services.

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