Ultra Mundane Gallery in St. Petersburg, Florida, is presenting "Held Together," a solo exhibition by local artist Vincent Ricottilli. The show opens on June 19 with a free reception from 5-9 pm and features works made from reclaimed wood, construction remnants, duct tape, sandpaper, spray paint, and other found materials. Ricottilli encourages visitors to touch and interact with the textured, layered pieces, breaking from the traditional hands-off gallery experience.
The exhibition matters because it challenges conventional notions of what art can be, emphasizing accessibility, playfulness, and tactile engagement. By using overlooked materials and inviting direct physical interaction, Ricottilli's work fosters a more personal, conversational relationship between artist and audience. This approach reflects a broader shift in contemporary art toward experiential and participatory practices that prioritize connection over passive observation.