Mettle Martyr II

Nov 18 2022 - Dec 8 2022

A.L. Lummus – Solo Exhibition

Bitfactory Gallery presents a new collection of A.L. Lummus’ powerful Mettle Martyr series. Like the first iteration at Bitfactory in 2020, Mettle Martyr Volume II is much more than an art exhibit. The goal of this show is to call attention to the existence and frequency of gender-based discrimination and abuse, educate about advocacy, and make a lasting impact on the viewer. The artwork features female models, some chosen for their survival stories, and some posed in ironic mid-century modern postures to reclaim their humor, beauty, mettle, and most importantly, their sense of self. A portion of proceeds from the show will be donated to The PorchLight Family Justice Center who will be on site during the opening to share information about their services. The public is invited to view the show at 851 Santa Fe Driver through December 8th, during regular business hours Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 am–3 pm and by appointment, and for the following special events:

Opening Reception: Friday, November 18, 6-9 pm
First Friday Art Walk: Friday, December 2, 5-9pm

Lummus utilizes pretty imagery to draw the average viewer in and a monochromatic palette that allows them to focus on the title of the piece— each one features an alarming statistic about gender issues. Other hands-on interactive “puzzles” allow the viewer to physically restore forms broken down by the dangerous social construct of gender and the equally dangerous apathetic attitude toward abuse. Both a serious commentary on how a woman was “being good” by depriving and martyring herself for the “good” of family and community, these pieces are also humorous insights about the journey to the mettle—the strength of women as we stand together.

Lummus created the show—from creating the artwork to fabricating the frames and other installations—entirely on her own. She does partner with a local high school for printing copies of the artworks to get others involved and inspire community action. This not only showcases her “mettle” but empowers her to save money that can be used to support her family as a single mother, and to donate to advocacy groups like the PorchLight Family Justice Center. Lummus visited their facility and was taken aback by the sheer number of services they offer and by the warm, caring environment they create. She encourages the community to make themselves aware of this facility and to support them through making purchases at the show or through direction donation.

PorchLight Family Justice Center (FJC) provides comprehensive legal, emotional, and critical supportive services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, abuse of at-risk individuals, elder abuse, and human trafficking. The center is centrally located in Jefferson County, Colorado. The FJC is a safe, caring environment that provides one-stop services and support. Key local government agencies, law enforcement, community, social and legal service providers, and District Attorney’s Offices are located on-site at the FJC to make it easier for victims and survivors to get help. We strive to offer our community a kind-hearted, victim-centered home where victims, survivors, and their children come first as they work through the healing process. porchlightfjc.org

Bitfactory Gallery, located at 851 Santa Fe Drive in the heart of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe, exhibits work by the best emerging and up-and-coming local, national, and international visual artists. It strives to showcase art that may not be a good fit for other galleries. Additionally, they host one major or renowned artist a year, bringing new and exciting work to Denver. The Bitfactory building also houses artist studios with the vision of providing a helpful, friendly atmosphere for artists to work solo or collaborate with others. Gallery hours are Tuesday –Saturday, 11:30 am – 3 pm and by appointment. For additional information please contact Bill Thomason at info@bitfactory.net or (303) 862-9367.