Valerie Carmet "America let’s play over the rainbow"

Valerie Carmet "America let’s play over the rainbow" 2024

Mixed Media: Wood, Plexi, Spray Paint, Recycled and Collectible Pez Keychains
Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 4 in
Unique
Signed on Recto and Verso, includes a certificate of authenticity.

Valerie Carmet, a French-American Pop Art assemblage artist, calls both Miami and NYC home, blending the vibrant energies of these two cultural hubs. Originally hailing from France, she ventured into New York's dynamic fashion scene in 1989, where her journey into the world of art began to unfold.

In 1995, Carmet's artistic path took root with the creation of intricate mosaics, a testament to her innate mathematical instincts and keen skills. Over the years, she honed her craft, culminating in the birth of her signature ToyBox Collection in 2013. This innovative series, born from a desire to breathe new life into discarded toys, serves as a platform for Carmet to explore profound societal issues with a playful twist. Through her art, Carmet boldly addresses topics such as overconsumption, violence, gender equality, and mental health, inviting viewers to reflect on these themes through the lens of childhood nostalgia. Her work challenges norms and sparks conversations, exhibited globally for over two decades.

“Built from PEZ keychains heads, this piece juxtaposes a small American flag over a rainbow flag, symbolizing the tension between national identity and LGBTQ+ rights. The playful material contrasts with its serious message—highlighting how marginalized communities, including queer individuals, immigrants, and people of color, remain excluded from America’s promises. By using childhood nostalgia, the work urges viewers to reconsider inclusivity and envision a country where equality isn’t just an ideal but a reality.”  - Valerie Carmet

For more information on the exhibition visit our website.