In collaboration with Collar Works and Artist/Mother Podcast, we are pleased to present the 4th Painting at Night open-call exhibition featuring 38 caregiver artists from around the world. Curated by Sean Desiree & Alisa Sikelianos-Carter.

As parents and caregivers, we view the world through a unique lens that profoundly influences our work and perspectives. Parenthood adds a significant layer to our considerations, bringing forth universal experiences and connections related to being parented or parenting. The act of caregiving is crucial to our survival, embodying a vulnerability that requires us to open up to others' needs while navigating complex dynamics. This process fosters a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In selecting the artworks for this show, we adopted a broad perspective to capture the myriad ways people care for others. We chose works spanning all stages of artists' careers, emphasizing that external success does not define the quality or significance of their work. The selected pieces exemplify themes such as humor, talismanic elements, domesticity, materials, systems, and self-awareness. Despite their diversity, these works share a common thread of resilience, transcendence, and a moment of arrival, highlighting the strength and growth inherent in the caregiving experience.

Our focus was on the meaning and emotional depth of the works, acknowledging that caregiving responsibilities can limit the attention one can devote to a career. Importantly, being a caregiver does not dictate that an artist's work must center it; rather, the experience subtly informs and enriches their creations, whether overtly visible or not. This exhibition celebrates the profound impact of caregiving on artistic expression.

—Sean Desiree and Alisa Sikelianos-Carter, curators