2009 Parade Theme
Chiaroscuro
Beguiling the Penumbra
The 20th Parade the Circle (June 13) precedes by two weeks the public opening of the museum's East Wing (June 27). This year's Parade theme highlights both the exterior and the collections of the East Wing.
One of the most evocative terms in the art lexicon, Chiaroscuro illuminates the myriad ways artists render contrasts of light and shadow in a creative work. Whether exploring light and shadow, the interplay of dissimilar elements or what exists in partial shadow, within chiaroscuro lies the penumbra, the area between light and shadow.
In literature or art the penumbra also refers to that which cannot be defined as either real or fantasy; it is the area where dreams, daydreams, our muses and inspirations reside. One of the most difficult challenges an artist faces is to draw out the essence of an inspiration and develop it into a sculpture, painting, poem, dance or parade ensemble. Each creative individual must "beguile the penumbra" in their own unique way.
As the Cleveland Museum of Art prepares to open its new East Wing galleries, the chiaroscuro of the East Wing's exterior, its dark and light stripes, can lead us to the penumbra within, and help us mine the artistic treasures within for inspiration. As we realize our personal artistic visions, we share them with all Greater Clevelanders in the 20th annual Parade the Circle.
Note: The parade theme helps to unify parade entries, especially the major ensembles. Groups are not required to follow it, but may find it a helpful guide in designing their own entries.
Parade the Circle is organized by the Cleveland Museum of Art and is presented through the generous support of the Womens Council of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Additional support has been provided by Medical Mutual, a CMA Community Arts Partner. Circle Village is organized by University Circle Inc. The Cleveland Museum of Art is generously funded by the citizens of Cuyahoga County through Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.
2009 Parade Theme
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