Chandler gallery celebrates ‘unlovable’ animals with free art exhibit

The Vision Gallery in downtown Chandler is currently hosting a new exhibit that challenges perceptions of the natural world. This open call exhibition highlights animals frequently overlooked or disliked, such as rats, bats, pigeons, and snakes. About 60 Arizona artists contributed works that aim to shift public perspective toward these creatures through creative interpretation.

Jillian Nakornthap, the exhibits curator, notes the primary intent is to celebrate animals people often fear or avoid. The gallery space serves as a platform to rethink human interaction with these animals and move beyond common stereotypes of what constitutes a lovable creature.

The exhibit includes more than just static displays. Visitors are invited to participate in interactive activities, such as writing love letters to the animals featured or engaging with tactile felt sculptures. A specific make-and-take event for families is scheduled for August 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., where attendees can construct their own pet snakes.

This show remains open to the public at no cost through August 15. The gallery operates Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located in the heart of downtown Chandler, this collection provides an opportunity for the community to explore nature through a different lens.