We all face many challenges “In These Times.” As artists, we no longer have a shared physical space to exhibit our work. We miss the connections with our partners in running the gallery and we miss sharing our work with the public. In discussing the theme of this show, the three of us talked of our experiences of doing and not doing art. We had a feeling in common that days just disappeared. For a variety of reasons, we have experienced trouble getting into our studios and have found that the ability to focus has been elusive. The work we have selected for this virtual exhibit is a reflection of some of the challenges we have faced.
I am constantly inspired by natural forms and objects that I may come across/find/discover while walking in the woods, and I incorporate these objects in my sculptures, often along with shapes I fabricate. Lately, various health issues have kept me out of the studio, so in this exhibit I’m showing work I’ve done in the past. I hope to be back soon making new work. For information about my work you may contact me directly at cdking@mindspring.com.
“In These Times” I struggle with finding motivation to work in my studio. Yet I know, for my personal sanity, that I need a creative outlet. Hence this project: Cut up a cover of The New Yorker magazine into one-inch squares and produce a collage from these pieces no larger than 6 x 6 inches. The freedom to experiment within a clear structure has turned out to be a great antidote to despair, and rearranging known images to create something new has become a metaphor for rearranging my old life to meet the challenges of these times. I have now completed over 40 collages and am still excited about producing more. Each collage has challenged me with a puzzle that has no “right” answer, only unlimited possibilities. As an extra bonus, I have become familiar with many talented artists who design for The New Yorker. For more information about my work, please contact me via my email address: kristin.otwell@gmail.com.
The work I am presenting in this show is primarily a representation of the acrylic and mixed media paintings I have done within the last two years. I work intuitively, being inspired by color and nature. For information about my work, you may contact me directly at arleneart@mcn.org.
