The Candy Parlor: A Sweet Nostalgic Installation for ARTeriors at The James

The Candy Parlor, a heartfelt tribute by Miko Beach to his late father, seamlessly intertwines the magic of movie-watching and the joy of candy indulgence. Drawing inspiration from shared moments, Miko transforms the space into a personal sanctuary for his dad, complete with a vintage 90s TV and VCR. The resulting blend of colorful elements and dark undertones creates a mesmerizing fusion of goth and Candyland aesthetics. Hand-painted canvases of cherished candies, adhesive sprinkles, and candy-like text add a unique touch, inviting visitors to step into a realm of cherished childhood memories.

Now, let's delve into the behind-the-scenes perspective:

The 10th and latest ARTeriors installment found its home inside the James Saltwater Taffy Store & Factory on the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, just off New York Ave. As one of the founding board members of The Atlantic City Arts Foundation, I recently rejoined the board after successfully applying last summer. Exploring the location for the next ARTeriors became my inaugural outing with the ACAF.

Navigating through the intricate passages of this massive candy factory felt like entering the twilight zone, creating an eerie yet incredible experience. The old building, with its massive equipment, triggered a wave of nostalgia. It became a trip down memory lane, recalling my father's love for candy. Every night, he would settle in to watch TV with a bag of candy by his side, a routine etched into my memories.

Inspired by these recollections, I knew I wanted to be part of this unique project. The challenge lay in transforming abstract memories into a tangible concept. The announcement of my inclusion in the lineup added an exciting layer, prompting a thorough online shopping spree to find pieces that would bring my story to life, even if it meant going over the materials budget.

As I worked on my installation, the realization hit me – I was designing a living room for my father based on our shared memories. "The Candy Parlor" emerged as a way to indulge in nostalgia, unknowingly becoming the representation of a room I would have designed for my dad if given the opportunity. Two full days of cleaning, painting, staging, and finishing up hand-painted text on the walls went into creating this emotional space.

The hunt for the perfect elements included a black love seat, a coffee table, a colorful rug, a 90s TV, and VCR sourced from Facebook Marketplace, along with a collection of VHS cassette tapes. Hand-painted canvases featuring our favorite candies, adhesive sprinkles, a neon candy sign, plush animals, and family pictures completed the nostalgic tableau.

As the curtains close on 2023, I find myself reflecting on the culmination of a year filled with creative endeavors, and it's fitting that this project stands as the grand finale. A deep sense of gratitude washes over me as I acknowledge the journey that led to the completion of what turned out to be my final significant undertaking of the year.

Pushing myself to the limits became a theme for 2023, and this project was no exception. The intensity of the effort invested exceeded even my own expectations. From the initial spark of inspiration to the final brushstroke, every step was a testament to my dedication and passion for my craft.

As the opening night approached, there was a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement. The realization that this event coincided with my dad's birthday added a profound layer of meaning, turning the occasion into a personal tribute to the influence and inspiration he has been in my life.

The most poignant revelation, however, came from a comment that resonated deeply with me. Someone appreciating the room's representation of my artistic range provided the validation I had sought throughout my creative career. It served as a reminder that the challenges faced and the boundaries pushed were not in vain.

The opening night, a celebration attended by over 350 people, became a communal acknowledgment of the collective effort poured into this project. Gummy bear earrings, crafted with the assistance of friends, became symbols of camaraderie, shared among ARTeriors contributors, adding an intimate touch to the festivities.

As I bring the curtain down on this chapter, I am left with a profound sense of accomplishment and growth. This project, standing as the pinnacle of my creative pursuits for the year, not only showcased my strength and evolution as an artist but also solidified my connection with a community of fellow creators.

With the closing of this project, I step into the new year with a heart full of gratitude, lessons learned, and the knowledge that I've pushed my artistic boundaries in ways that will resonate with me for years to come. Here's to the transformative power of art and the endless possibilities that await in the coming year.