Body Art

Florida has a deep love for and sordid history with human oddities, and no, not just who we elect to the governor's office but with the actual community that once made its living on the circus sideshow circuit. Lobster Boy, the Half-Girl, Rubber Faced Man, and Human Blockhead have all called Florida home at some point. And perhaps it's the gorgeous weather, but Florida also had its fair share of sideshow retirees and snowbirds, as evidenced in Gibtown, where many sideshow acts, including Inferno the Fire Eater and Grace McDaniels the Mule Faced Woman, would park their trailers along the Alafia River and rest for the winter. While Americans have moved away from the concept of the über-politically incorrect "freak shows," there is still a fascination with medical oddities; hence, the new art show "Anatomically Correct" at Ink and Pistons, opening Saturday. Exploring "fascinations of oddities, medical misfits, and creepy creatures from over 30 artists," the show explores our distorted view of what constitutes "normal" and will host works by Alisha Koyanis, J.R. Linton, Leah Palmer Preiss, Matt Vazquez, and many others. Opening night will feature themed snacks and goods. Celebrations will run from 7 to 11 p.m. at Ink and Pistons (2716 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach), and the show will be on display until November 29. Visit inkandpistons.com.
Sat., Oct. 18, 7-11 p.m.; Oct. 18-Nov. 29, 2014