Sandra Bacchi
October 5 – November 17, 2024
“When I couldn’t eat strawberries, I pretended watermelons were strawberries.” — 5 year old Vitória Bacchi to a friend who also had multiple food allergies
Sandra Bacchi, a Brazilian-American visual artist based in Sewickley, exhibits photographs from her series, “Watermelons Are Not Strawberries,” 2014-2020. These photos portray her inner transformation and pursuit of self-awareness while navigating challenges related to parenting. The black and white photographs blend conceptual and documentary photography that reveals the shapes and shadows of her love for motherhood as it merges with a lifetime of personal anxiety.
Over the six years of the project, as they navigated challenges including severe food allergies and learning differences, the work grew into a story of resilience, hope, and mutual support between her and her children. In this creative process, Bacchi found strength by examining universal feelings such as sadness, happiness, and love.
Discussion with Sandra Bacchi and her daughters
Sandra Bacchi and her daughter Ana Luiza will be hosting an informal conversation at the Sewickley Library on November 16th from 1:00 to 2:30 PM, in connection with the “Watermelons Are Not Strawberries” photography exhibit. The discussion will focus on Sandra’s creative process, collaboration, and the experience photographing her two daughters (Ana Luiza and Vitória) for the series. Ana Luiza will share her unique perspective on being part of the photo-making process, a topic that has intrigued many. This event promises a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between art, family, and creative expression.
Admission is free, but registration is required: https://sewickley.librarycalendar.com/event/sandra-bacchi-artist-talk-19393
Wonder what other works we’ve featured? Check out our list of past displays!
Call for Exhibit Proposals
Calling all artists, creatives, and collectors! The Sewickley Public Library is seeking proposals for engaging exhibits in their display cases for the 2025 season. The display cases are ideal for solo exhibits or small group shows. There are eight display cases, roughly 46”h x 45”w x 11”d each with removable shelves. 2-dimensional work as well as small 3-dimensional objects may be displayed. Exhibits last approximately 6 weeks. Visual artists working in any media, as well as those with collections of art or artifacts to display, are encouraged to apply by November 1.
Fill out our Exhibit Submission Form for consideration.
