Theater Review - Dirty pictures

Whether it turns you on or makes you squeamish, the art of John Santerineross is sure to provoke a reaction.

In his exhibition, Fruit of the Secret God at Friction Gallery, the New Jersey-based photographer displays images from his photography book, Fruits of the Secret God, as well as new works. Santerineross favored Friction Gallery for his Atlanta debut because of its reputation for daring exhibits.

Gallery owner Angela Lieben has dedicated her gallery and production company, Shameless Productions, to “illuminating the deep, mysterious shadows surrounding sexualilty, sensuality and, of course, shamelessness.”

Lieben says Fruit of the Secret God is not just a collection of dirty pictures. “With pornography, you’re not using the imagination, it’s being used for you. This is more thought-provoking than any pornography,” she says.

The exhibition contains images of clothed and nude women and men in sexual poses with bondage devices and symbolic props. Due to the content of the artwork, the show is open by appointment only. An Art Party at Karma June 8 will be the one chance to meet the artist and receive free postcards, signed prints and CDs of his artwork. A video installation of vintage erotica also will be shown by SubmediaTV.

Get ready to be naughty. Whether Santerineross’ art makes you moan, writhe, grin or giggle, it definitely will make you look.

Fruit of the Secret God opens June 8 and runs through Aug. 3 at Friction Gallery, 659 Auburn Ave., unit 238. The Art Party will take place at Karma, 79 Poplar St., June 8 from midnight-4 a.m. $10. 404-577-6967. Viewing of the exhibit is by appointment only. 404-681-3111. www.frictiongallery.com??