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breast defense at screen arts
interview with Rob DePiazza


WHAT: Keep a Breast Art Show

WHERE: Gallery at Screen Arts

WHEN: October 5th

      In case you haven’t heard, there’s a big buzz about busts in St. Augustine, so EU decided to talk with Rob DePiazza, the guy in charge of the Gallery at Screen Arts, my favorite gallery in St. Augustine. He gave me the scoop on Breast Defense, a project developed to enhance breast cancer awareness.
      In addition to a number of local artists who will be participating, there are rumors of many celebrity participants as well, including Kim Gordon (Sonic Youth), Derek Hess (album cover artist for R.L. Burnside and hundreds of rock bands), and Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo, Rugrats). Moreover, I’ve gotten confirmation that two of the Burlesque dancers involved are planning to attend the opening.
      Let’s all do our part for our favorite parts and head on down to St. Augustine on October 5th.


EU: Who originally came up with the titillating idea for a Breast Defense exhibition? How did the Gallery at Screen Arts become involved?
DePiazza: I was approached by the Art Walk for Breast Cancer people here in St. Augustine to produce the main event. Having been aware for a number of years of the Keep a Breast Foundation (KAB) and their involvement in the arts, I immediately thought a KAB exhibition would be an ideal cornerstone for the Art Walk taking place in October.


EU: There will be many notable artists decorating the beautiful burlesque busts. Which artists will be attending the opening at Screen Arts?
DePiazza: We have not received confirmation from all of the artists at this time, however, I do know that local artists Mark George, David Cutter, Ian Chase, Tonya Lee and Tony Rodrigues will be in attendance.


EU: Were the burlesque dancers eager to participate in the project? Will any of them be present at the exhibition’s opening?
DePiazza: The Burlesque Hall of Fame was very eager to co-sponsor this event. As you know, breasts are a big part of Burlesque, and maintaining their health is paramount to their profession. Unfortunately, I cannot confirm if any of the dancers will be at the opening since many of them have other professions and live all across the country.


EU: Will the exhibition be a family event?
DePiazza: Certainly. This is by no means an R-rated event. Although the casts are made from real live women they are not ‘detailed’ in any way. Besides, we were all nursed by our mothers and most likely have fond memories of their mammaries.


EU: Where and when will the busts be auctioned off? Can anyone attempt to purchase one? I bet they’d make great wedding gifts or stocking stuffers.
DePiazza: The casts will be auctioned in June 2008. The auction will be conducted online and is open to the public. Visit KAB’s website for details: keep-a-breast.org/home.htm

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