Exquisite Crust

EXQUISITE CRUST / CADAVERS

The French Surrealists of the 1900s had a parlor game called, “An Exquisite Corpse/ Cadaver”. This is an incredible creative exercise where zany creations come to life! * 

Around the same time I was introduced to this game, I was drawing a huge amount of inspiration from my Art History classes at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. I particularly took notice of the double-standards of style, success and sensibility throughout western art history; and really, just the many manifestations of the heterosexual-white-patriarchal system at work.

As the iconoclast and provocateur that I am, I sought to combine the styles of the revered modern and classical work with the otherwise considered low brow and kitschy subject matter. You’ll find references to Piet Mondrian, Pablo Picasso, Edouard Manet; all covered in sex and saccharine.

how to play:

1. Take sheet(s) of paper (2-4 or equal to “players”) and fold it into 3rds or 4ths. (Head, Torso, Legs; H,T,L,Feet)

2. Create your interpretation of a body part, with the only rule being that the lines from the drawn area are continued (a mm or so) to the next segment. This is done so that those can continue the illusion of a continuous “body”.

3. Fold over or cover your section as you pass it to the next person to further ensure more fantastical juxtaposition!

4. Pass back/ forth or down the line; giving usually 15-30 minutes to create in whatever medium or style of the artist’s choosing. After the 3 or 4 rounds, reveal the fully represented masterpiece!