Using Art to Understand Addiction
Printmaker Michael Weatherly Gives Private Showing of his exhibition: “Behind the Door”
Michael Weatherly’s exhibit, “Behind the Door” at Kaddatz Studios in Fergus Falls.
Residents and Staff of Matthew House were invited on April 27, 2021 to view Printmaker Michael Weatherly’s ‘Behind the Door’ exhibit—the showcase on display at the Kaddatz Studios in Fergus Falls. This private showing allowed residents to see Weatherly’s examination of addiction specific to the opioid crisis as well as the inner complexities that accompany addiction on the human psyche.
The exhibit featured a series of doors that depicted a unique aspect corelating with the opioid addiction. Residents of Matthew House explained that the representation of this struggle was thoughtful and accurately portrayed.
Residents also offered suggestions and encouraged ideas that future works regarding addiction could include. Because of their feedback, Weatherly plans to complete four additional doors to add for his exhibit.
“Doors are a two-way portal,” Weatherly says. “You can hide behind them, but you don’t have to stay there. You can walk out of them, close them, and never look back.”
After the private showing, an announcement from Kaddatz Galleries was made in which they have secured funding for a printmaking studio of their own. Thanks to the Lake Region Arts Council, the project has been approved for full funding. With plans to open in July of 2021, classes are to be offered to the Matthew House at no charge thanks to funding received from the Frank Veden Charitable Trust. It is through the Kaddatz Galleries Art Reach Program that arts experiences like printmaking will further enrich arts and reach undeserved populations in the community.