Artists’ statement

Exhibit S, a new artists' studio, will have its official coming-out party on Thursday, June 27, with a show featuring several notable Sacramento-based artists, including Maren Conrad.

Conrad's Politically Vulnerable painting series recently caused a stir after lobbyist Donne Brownsey successfully pressured local restaurateur Randy Paragary to have Conrad's pieces removed from the walls of the new Vanguard bar on L Street because she found its theme offensive.

The provocative 12-piece collection, rendered in metal leaf, paint and resin, depicts the wives, girlfriends and lovers of various California governors, including well-known figures such as Linda Ronstadt, Maria Shriver and Nancy Reagan (pictured). Glenda Corcoran, a local attorney, purchased the entire collection, which will now be on display at Exhibit S, along with an enlarged copy of an email that Brownsey wrote to the artist.

The show will also feature works from Danny Scheible, who will display his epic TapeCity sculpture installation, and there will be a preview of a new Tapigami collection set to be unveiled in the near future.

In addition, works from Exhibit S resident artists including Matt Brown and Teddy L Believest will be on display, the latter of whom will screen videos and, armed with a camera, will document the night. Thursday, June 27, 6 to 9 p.m. at 545 Downtown Plaza; www.facebook.com/exhibit.s.studios.