Macon, GA — McEachern Art Center (MAC) presents “Guilty Pleasures” by artist Brittany Coburn, an exhibition that explores the vices, comforts and coping mechanisms people carry as they navigate the complexities of everyday life. The exhibition will open on Feb. 6 and run through March 22.
Functioning as both a new body of work and a retrospective of Coburn’s ongoing research into mental health, the exhibition examines how habits often labeled as indulgent or weak can instead operate as tools for survival and resilience. Working across a wide range of materials, from wood to found object installation, Coburn employs polished finishes, bright colors, bold language and layered symbolism to create work that initially appears playful and inviting. Upon closer inspection, satire gives way to sincerity, revealing deeper conversations around emotional topics. By softening the point of entry, her work encourages viewers to engage with difficult subjects through openness and empathy.
Rooted in the belief that art can challenge stigma and spark meaningful dialogue, the exhibition invites audiences to reconsider their own “guilty pleasures” not as flaws but as evidence of the deeply human effort to cope, heal and move forward. This exhibition includes mature imagery involving tobacco, drugs, medicine and related themes. Viewer discretion is advised.
“Brittany and I first met in graduate school, and our connection and collaboration have continued to grow ever since,” said Johnny Cohen, director of the MAC. “From the beginning, I knew this was a body of work we would one day bring together in an exhibition. ‘Guilty Pleasures’ is years in the making, and I am incredibly honored to present it here in Macon. This work is deeply honest, timely and necessary— it’s the kind of work that needs to be seen, experienced and talked about.”
Coburn is also conducting an artist workshop for students and community members while in residence in Macon.
The exhibition will open with a public reception at 6 p.m. Feb. 6. The MAC is located at 332 Second St. in Macon and has regular operating hours during an open exhibition on Thursday-Saturday from 4-8 p.m. Admission is always free and open to the public. Media and educators may access the gallery outside of normal hours by appointment by emailing cohen_j@mercer.edu. Find out more at macmacon.com.
