I had submitted my painting Gnosis…and the Old Gods Were Pleased to a juried show celebrating women.
Last evening I received the nicest rejection notice.
Although the jurors “loved the piece” it was to excluded because “after a review by the city, they felt the nudity in the piece would not be appropriate for the venue”.
The fellow assigned to this unpleasant task could not have been more diplomatic or supportive, but I am a bit stunned. Really?
Nudity isn’t “appropriate”?
In 2014?
In southern California? This isn’t Selma.
I’m incredulous. I offered to paste on fig leaves, only half joking.
Anyway, my solution is to draw more junk.
detail of the the painting which follows.
Gnosis …and the Old Gods Were Pleased
oil on canvas
2014
Disappointing, but oh well, that is what yoga is for.
Namaste (bitches),
Lg
Boondocks Babylon 
I’m a bit shocked this fantastic painting was turned down, what a timid bunch, what’s going on? This is such a strong, powerful image, too much for them I guess, but what is art for if not to challenge and unsettle a bit? Mind you, that quote about ‘after a review of the city,…bla bla’ it makes you sounds quite controversial and puts you in the same boat as all those past masters who got turned down at some point on their lives, pretty good company to be in! All the best Leonard, your painting looks on fire at the moment, there will always be those who can’t stand the heat I guess
Timid yes indeed. Southern California, below LA, is pretty conservative; this town had qualms about yoga being taught in its public schools, that is the climate of this place. But you are right, I did take the rejection as a source of pride and frankly validation. Your heartfelt validation I treasure more though. Thank you.