BSR_S10E22 - Arleen Olshan - The Tangle I’ve Gotten Into
In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with artist and activist Arlene Olshan about her upcoming exhibition, 'The Tangle I've Gotten Into,' at the William Way Center. They discuss Arlene's journey as an activist since the 1970s, her artistic process, and the importance of remembering those who have influenced her life and work. The conversation highlights the intersection of art and activism, the significance of community, and the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Artist
02:37 Arlene Olshan: Activism and Artistic Journey
09:35 The Tangle: Exhibition Overview
16:15 Personal Connections: Portraits of the Past
23:09 Preparing for the Exhibition
27:31 Reflections on Society and Personal Journey
31:30 Closing Thoughts and Exhibition Details
Arleen Olshan is a visual artist, graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and hand crafter of custom leather accessories. She has been active in the LGBTQA+ and Feminist Communities for over 50 years trailblazing the way forward. Beginning in the late 1960s, Arleen worked with Radical Lesbians and the Gay Activist Alliance. She was co-coordinator of the original Gay Community Center (now William Way LGBT Community Center). From 1976 – 1986 she was the co-owner of Giovanni’s Room in Philadelphia, the oldest LGBTQIA+ and Feminist bookstore in the country. Arleen was a case manager for We the People Living with HIV/AIDS helping with housing and daily living issues, and an Addictions Counselor at Thomas Jefferson Hospital for women in recovery. Arleen was the co-founder of Mt. Airy Art Garage where she served as Treasurer and Executive Director for over 14 years. Learn more about Arleen on her website: arleenolshan.com
About iMPeRFeCT Gallery:
Founded by Renny Molenaar and Rocio Cabello in 2012, iMPeRFeCT Gallery was created with the intention and hope of becoming a voice in the community and in the ongoing conversation with the art world. The approach to this work is that of a facilitator, where artists of very different persuasions can present themselves and their work with as much freedom as possible. Programming includes monthly exhibitions, performances, and other events; it is also our intention to bring art out of the gallery, with the creation of works in public places, the publishing of limited edition prints, and an active presence on the internet. We, as artists, strongly believe in the transformative powers that the arts bring to our lives. We want to share that experience and inspire action and change. Learn more at imperfectgallery.com.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.waygay.org/arleen-olshan-the-tangle-ive-gotten-into
