Artist to exhibit condom dresses at UA beginning March 12

Condom dresses by artist Adriana Bertini.

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Six dresses made entirely of latex condoms will soon be on display on the University of Arkansas campus.

The dresses are part of an art exhibit called “Dress Up Against AIDS” by Brazilian artist Adriana Bertini, and will be on display March 12-29 at Anne Kittrell Art Gallery.

Bertini’s work was inspired during her time working for an AIDS prevention organization called GAPA. The idea, she said, is to remind people “to be smart when having sex” through her artwork.

“Condoms must be basic like a pair of jeans, and so necessary like a great love,” Bertini said.

Each of her works are made from 1,000 to 80,000 condoms that are either expired, or didn’t pass factory quality control requirements.

An artist reception is planned for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 12 at the gallery. Following the event, Bertini will give an informal lecture at 7 p.m. in the campus Multicultural Center.

The lecture and exhibit are free and open to the public, however, University of Arkansas students will have seating priority at the lecture.

The Anne Kittrell Art Gallery is located on the 4th floor of the Arkansas Union, and is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.