Super 8’s Farewell to Kitschy Motel Art
For decades, the Super 8 motel chain has been synonymous with nondescript watercolor paintings and prints that adorned the walls of thousands of rooms across the United States. But as the motel chain embarks on a decorative redesign, it bid farewell to its old artwork with a one-of-a-kind gallery show in Manhattan.
A Night of Bland Art Brilliance
Titled “When The Art Comes Down: Works from the Super 8 Collection,” the exhibition showcased a diverse array of generic nature scenes, animal portraits, and still lifes of flowers. The event catered to connoisseurs of bland art, with the first 100 visitors receiving a complimentary painting to take home.
The Purposeful Evolution of Super 8 Art
Super 8 Vice President Mike Mueller acknowledged the unassuming nature of the old artwork, likening it to background noise that often went unnoticed by guests. The new redesign, however, aims to change that by incorporating large black-and-white or sepia photographs that highlight local sights. This shift is part of a broader effort to enhance the image of Super 8 and create a more distinctive and memorable guest experience.
Amy Sedaris’ Amusing Art Commentary
Comedian Amy Sedaris added a touch of whimsy to the event by personally naming all of the artworks on display. Her tongue-in-cheek titles, such as “Monet Knock-Knock Of, Who’s There?” and “It’s More About the Frame than the Flower,” brought a comedic flair to the generic paintings.
The End of an Era, a New Beginning
In the past, Super 8 rooms were largely indistinguishable from one another, regardless of their location. The redesigned rooms, however, will embrace local identity through the use of photographs that reflect the unique character of each region. While the old motel art may have been unremarkable, it has become an iconic symbol of a bygone era. The gallery show served as a fitting farewell to these kitschy treasures, allowing guests to take home a piece of Super 8 nostalgia.
A Legacy of Kitschy Charm
The Super 8 motel art may not have won any awards, but it holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its generic nature and mass production have inadvertently created a nostalgic appeal, evoking memories of countless road trips and overnight stays. The gallery show was a celebration of this kitschy charm, offering a chance for attendees to appreciate the unique and endearing qualities of the old artwork.
As Super 8 moves forward with its new decorative redesign, the motel chain will leave behind a legacy of bland yet beloved art. The gallery show served as a bittersweet farewell to this iconic aspect of Super 8, while also ushering in a new era of locally inspired design.