Lonnie Holley and Lizzi Bougatsos at the MFA St. Petersburg

The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg is proud to present the inaugural institutional exhibition titled "Never the Same Song", focusing on the artistic achievements of Lizzi Bougatsos and Lonnie Holley. The exhibition showcases a range of artworks dating from the 1990s to the present day, featuring pieces created by the artists in March 2024 at Holley’s studio in Atlanta, along with works from the MFA's collection.

Photo byMUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, ST. PETERSBURG

Curated by Viva Vadim, an independent curator, photographer, and textile artist, and Katherine Pill, Senior Curator of Contemporary Art, "Never the Same Song" explores the shared themes in Bougatsos and Holley's creative practices such as improvisation, the use of found objects, sustainability, and environmental conservation. The exhibition will be open to the public from May 18 to September 15, 2024, with a schedule of accompanying events.

Viva Vadim, the guest curator of the exhibition, draws from her rich background growing up amongst the Souls Grown Deep Collection, an organization founded by her grandfather William S. Arnett. Souls Grown Deep Collection focuses on preserving a significant collection of works by Black artists from the South and advocates for their inclusion in the American art historical narrative. Vadim's personal connection to Lonnie Holley, her godfather, brings a unique perspective to her curation of this collaborative exhibition that delves into themes of art as a tool for healing, social commentary, and environmental awareness.

The exhibit, under the theme "Never the Same Song", emphasizes the artistic kinship between Bougatsos and Holley, highlighting their mutual passion for music, improvisation, and reimagining the use of discarded materials. Both artists transform found objects into thought-provoking sculptures, shedding light on themes of climate change, labor, and human experiences. The exhibition not only showcases early and recent works by the artists but also offers a reflection on the power of repurposed objects and the significance of environmental sustainability in artistic practice.

Holley and Bougatsos' artistic collaboration, grounded in shared values of creativity and environmental consciousness, marks a new chapter in their relationship. The title "Never the Same Song" epitomizes Holley's spontaneous musical style, capturing the essence of their dynamic and ever-evolving artistic partnership. Through their artwork, both artists challenge conventional notions of consumption and production, urging viewers to reconsider the potential of everyday objects and the impact of consumer culture on the environment.

Photo byMUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, ST. PETERSBURG

Holley's journey as an artist, inspired by a personal tragedy, has led him to repurpose discarded materials, infusing them with new life and meaning. Similarly, Bougatsos' experiences have shaped her artistic expressions, driving her to explore themes of transformation and resilience. Their combined efforts in creating sculptures and installations serve as a testament