Tag: art assembled

Art Assembled – New this Week in April

May 3, 2023 0 Comment

Welcome to our April Art Assembled blog, where we are thrilled to showcase the incredible artists featured in our New This Week series. Last month, the artists highlighted in our New This Week series all happen to be included in our current exhibition, Acclaim! Work by Award-Winning International Artists.

As we near the end of the exhibition, we’ve been enjoying seeing and meeting everyone at Acclaim! and invite those who haven’t had the chance to visit yet to come experience the stunning works of James Bassler, Adela Akers, Ed Rossbach, Helena Hernmarck, Mary Giles, and so many more while it’s still open! You have until this Sunday, May 7 to come check it out in person.

In the following paragraphs, we will dive deeper into the art of James Bassler, Adela Akers, Ed Rossbach, Helena Hernmarck, and Mary Giles, highlighting some of their stunning pieces on display in our exhibition.

James Bassler
17jb Unravelling, James Bassler, agave warp and weft, natural dyes, avocado seeds, weave madder root, wedge weave, embroidery, 28″ x 47″, 2022.

To kick off the month of April, we introduced you to the masterful textile artist James Bassler, whose piece “Unravelling” exemplifies his skill and creativity. Bassler’s unique style combines traditional weaving techniques with modern sensibilities, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and contemporary.

This particular piece features a map of the United States on PBS, illustrating the deep divide of the states and Bassler’s concern for the state of democracy. He wondered if our democracy is unraveling, leading him to name this piece “Unraveling.” He finished the piece on his 89th birthday.

Throughout his career, Bassler has received many accolades and honors for his art, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Craft Council.

Adela Akers
52aa Silver Waves, Adela Akers, linen, horsehair, paint & metal foil, 63” x 24”, 2014. Phot by Tom Grotta.

As the month continued, we introduced you to Adela Akers, a talented textile artist who uses mediums like metallic threads and horsehair to create a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow, evoking the movement of waves in the ocean. “Silver Waves” is a captivating piece that will leave you in awe of Akers’ skill and imagination. Her art is a beautiful representation of the delicate balance between nature and human creativity.

Born in the Czech Republic, Akers grew up in Venezuela and later moved to the United States. Her art is a beautiful representation of the delicate balance between nature and human creativity, and her pieces are included in many prestigious private and public collections, including the Smithsonian Institution.

Ed Rossbach
200r Eternal Summer, Ed Rossbach, 14″ x 8″, 1995. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Ed Rossbach was a master weaver and sculptor who revolutionized the world of basketry with his innovative use of ancient techniques and unconventional materials like plastics and newspaper.

His incorporation of pop culture references into his art is a testament to his imaginative prowess. Rossbach’s art invites the viewer to see beauty in the unexpected, and his unique style continues to inspire artists today.

Throughout his long and prolific career, Rossbach received many awards and honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

Helena Hernmarck
62hh Tabula Rasa 2, Helena Hernmarck, wool, 53″ x 44″, 2010

Up next, we turned our attention to the visionary Swedish-born artist and handweaver, Helena Hernmarck. Hernmarck has revolutionized tapestry as a medium for modern architectural spaces. Her tapestries are renowned for their incredible illusion of movement, captivating viewers and transcending the boundaries of two-dimensional art.

Born in Stockholm, Hernmarck studied at the Handarbetets Vänner textile school in Stockholm before moving to the United States. She has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Craft Council.

Mary Giles
69mg Quill Bowl II, Mary Giles, waxed linen and porcupine quills, 4.5″ x 11.5″ x 11.5″, 1983

Last, but not least, we highlight the work of the late Mary Giles. Giles was a renowned artist who mastered the coiling technique associated with Native American basket traditions. Her work included striking wall pieces and freestanding sculptures that draw inspiration from the environment, human figures, and vessels.

Her signature style incorporated thin metal strips, some of which are shaped like human figures, layered over a surface or core. Her pieces are a beautiful representation of the connection between art and nature, and her work is included in many prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

There are only a couple of days left to experience the stunning works of the incredible artists in our Acclaim! exhibition in person. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to engage with the art and immerse yourself in the world of these talented artists. For more information on Acclaim! or to register, click here. We hope to see you there!

Art Assembled – New this Week in March

March 29, 2023 0 Comment

March has been an exciting month for browngrotta arts, as we continue to bring you the latest and greatest in contemporary art. Our team has been working hard to prepare for the upcoming spring exhibition, Acclaim! Work by Award-Winning International Artists, which will be launching on April 29 and running until May 7. As part of our New This Week feature, we have had the pleasure of introducing you to some of the remarkable art from Anneke Klein, Naomi Kobayashi, Shoko Fukuda, and Nancy Koenigsberg.

Each artist has a unique vision and artistic approach that we are thrilled to showcase. We invite you to take a closer look at the inspiring works of these artists and learn more about their creative processes. And, of course, we can’t wait for you to experience some of these artists in person at our upcoming exhibition, Acclaim! Work by Award-Winning International Artists.

Anneke Klein
4akl Non Verbal, Anneke Klein, cotton, linen, hemp, acrylic paint, 28.75″ x 28.75″, 2020. Photo by Tom Grotta.

We are thrilled to introduce you to the captivating work of Anneke Klein, a Dutch artist who creates thought-provoking weavings that explore social themes. This month, we invited you all to view her work, Non Verbal, which is a stunning example of her ability to express her emotional responses to the world through diverse shapes, textures, and structures.

Klein’s creative process is guided by instinct and intuition, resulting in works that are deeply personal and reflective of her experiences. She continually investigates and translates her emotions and perceptions, aiming to stimulate social awareness in both herself and her viewers.

Through her weaving, Klein creates a sensory experience that captures the complexity of social dynamics. Her work evokes a range of emotions and interpretations, prompting viewers to consider the nuances of human relationships and interactions.

Naomi Kobayashi
66nko Cubic Harmony III, Naomi Kobayashi, koyori thread, washi paper, 5″ x 5″ x 5″, 1995. Photos by Tom Grotta.

Continuing our exploration of contemporary art, we turned our attention to the striking work of Naomi Kobayashi, a Japanese textile and sculpture artist with over 50 years of experience. Her work reflects her deep understanding of the ephemeral nature of life and her belief in the cycles of birth, growth, decay, and regeneration that shape our world.

The featured artwork, Cubic Harmony III, is a masterful installation that uses threads and strips of washi paper to create a delicate and intricate structure. Her meticulous technique involves layering and weaving the paper strips to produce a three-dimensional effect that plays with light and shadow. Through these methods, she creates an immersive experience that invites viewers to contemplate the beauty and fragility of existence.

What sets much of Kobayashi’s work apart is her use of calligraphy to add depth and meaning to her installations. She skillfully incorporates Japanese characters into many of her pieces, using them as a visual language to convey ideas and emotions. With Cubic Harmony III, she infuses her work with a sense of harmony and balance that echoes the natural world.

Shoko Fukuda
5sf Traced Contour II, Shoko Fukuda, ramie, monofilament, plastic, 6.5″ x 17″ x 3.5″, 2022 Photo by Tom Grotta.

In the month’s artistic journey, we had the pleasure of showcasing the unique work of Shoko Fukuda. If you don’t already know by now, Fukuda is a talented Japanese basketmaker and artist. Fukuda’s approach to basket weaving is centered around the concept of “distortion,” a theme she explores in her art by selecting materials and methods that allow for natural twists and turns to develop.

Her use of these elements creates a fascinating exploration of the possibilities inherent in basketry, resulting in stunning works of art such as Traced Contour II. Fukuda’s attention to detail and willingness to embrace the organic forms of her materials results in works that are both visually striking and thought-provoking.

Nancy Koenigsberg
73nk Wrap, Nancy Koenigsberg, steel wire, 63″ x 17″ x 17″, 2011. Photo by Tom Grotta.

To wrap up our March art showcase, we present the captivating wire sculptures of Nancy Koenigsberg, a New York-based artist who has been recognized internationally.

Koenigsberg finds inspiration for her art in the bustling city streets that surround her, and she uses a variety of industrial materials like copper, steel, and aluminum wire to create intricate pieces that showcase the interplay between strength and delicacy. Her sculptures are a testament to the beauty of urban landscapes and the art that can be found within them.

We hope you enjoyed this look into some the incredible contemporary artists we represent – some, including Anneke Klein and Nancy Koengsberg will be on display at our upcoming exhibition, Acclaim! Work by Award-Winning International Artists. If you’re in the area, we encourage you to come and experience these works of art in person. The exhibition will run from April 29 to May 7. For more information on Acclaim! or to register, click here.

Art Assembled – New this Week in February

March 1, 2023 0 Comment

February was an exceptional month for browngrotta arts, as we delved into the creative works of several contemporary artists. Our team worked tirelessly to prepare for the upcoming spring exhibition, Acclaim! Work by Award-Winning International Artists, which is set to launch on April 29 and run until May 7. As part of our New This Week feature, we had the pleasure of introducing you to some of the remarkable art from Jennifer Falck Linssen, Ethel Stein, Jiro Yonezawa, and Chris Drury.

Each artist has a unique perspective and artistic style, which we’re excited to share with you. Jennifer Falck Linssen’s intricate, three-dimensional sculptures demonstrate her keen eye for detail and love of nature. Ethel Stein’s intricate handwoven artworks showcase her mastery of textile arts, while Jiro Yonezawa’s beautiful basketry work combines traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Finally, Chris Drury’s installations and sculptures explore the relationship between humans and the natural world.

We can’t wait for you to experience some of these incredible artists for yourself at our upcoming exhibition. Until then, we invite you to learn more about their inspiring works and delve into their creative processes.

Jennifer Falck Linssen
17jl Nestled (Katagami-style hand-carved paper and metal sculpture), Jennifer Falck Linssen, archival cotton paper, aluminum, coated copper wire, waxed linen, paint and varnish, 36” x 17” x 7”, 2019

To kick off the month, we introduced you all to the remarkable work of Jennifer Falck Linssen, an American artist who creates stunning sculptures using hand-carved paper and metal. Linssen’s work is a testament to her belief in the power of pattern and light to convey the beauty and resilience of nature.

As a practitioner of the ancient art of katagami, Linssen seeks to honor this traditional Japanese paper- carving technique while exploring the transformative qualities of light and space in her artwork. Through her sculptures, she creates solid yet open structures that bridge the gap between the minute and the vast, freezing moments in time and immortalizing them in intricate patterns of light and shadow.

Linssen’s work is truly an ode to the enduring beauty of nature.

Ethel Stein
55es Jack Straws, Ethel Stein, mercerized cotton, 44” x 33” x 1.5”, 2008. Photos by Tom Grotta.

Things continued to heat up in February as we directed the spotlight on the late, great artist Ethel Stein. We are honored to represent Stein’s legacy and proud to call her a dear friend. Stein was a trailblazer in the world of fiber art, renowned for her intricate and awe-inspiring textile creations.

Stein’s work is distinguished by its rhythmic simplicity, which belies the technical complexity that went into its creation. Her art is truly timeless, standing the test of time and continuing to inspire generations of artists.

Stein’s passion for her craft is evident in every stitch, every weave, and every pattern of her work. Her dedication to exploring the possibilities of fiber art was unparalleled, and her legacy lives on through her beautiful creations.

Jiro Yonezawa
93jy Spring Wind, Jiro Yonezawa, bamboo, urushi laquer, 18.375” x 9.25” x 9.25”, 2019. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Up next: the breathtaking work of Jiro Yonezawa, a master craftsman who has dedicated nearly four decades of his career to the art of bamboo weaving. Yonezawa’s art is characterized by the interplay between disciplined formality and natural freedom, achieved through his exploration of traditional techniques.

Yonezawa’s bamboo baskets are an expression of detailed precision, each one a testament to his mastery of form and technique. But, beyond their stunning beauty, these baskets also contain an element of intrigue and complexity that speaks to something deeper.

As Yonezawa explains, “These baskets represent a search for the beauty and precision in nature and a way to balance the chaos evident in these times.” In a world that often seems to be spinning out of control, Yonezawa’s art provides a sense of order and harmony, a connection to the natural world that is both grounding and uplifting.

Through his work, Yonezawa invites us to contemplate the intricate beauty of the world around us, to find solace in the precision of nature, and to strive for balance in our own lives. We are honored to showcase his remarkable art, and we hope you join us in experiencing the magic of Yonezawa’s bamboo weaving for yourself at our spring exhibition.

Chris Drury
10cd Shredded Dollar, Chris Drury, US currency, 20″ x 19.5″ x .875″, 2018. Photo by Tom Grotta.

We concluded our showcase of new art throughout February with the artwork of Chris Drury, a world-renowned environmental artist whose pieces are as beautiful as they are thought-provoking. Drury’s use of natural materials and his ability to blend them seamlessly into their surroundings has earned him global recognition and admiration.

His site-specific artworks, often referred to as Land Art or Art in Nature, challenge us to rethink our relationship with the environment and the ways in which we interact with it. By creating sculptures that are both visually stunning and deeply connected to their surroundings, Drury reminds us of the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.

The piece highlighted above, Shredded Dollar, incorporates US currency in its design. When asked about the meaning behind this choice, Drury remained deliberately ambiguous, stating, “I think it’s good if it’s ambiguous and can hold multiple meanings for different people. I never prescribe a specific meaning to anything.”

This openness to interpretation is characteristic of Drury’s work, and we invite you to engage with the art on our own terms and to draw your own conclusions.

At bga, we are constantly amazed by the incredible artists we have the privilege of collaborating with. Over the past month, we have been thrilled to showcase the work of some truly exceptional creators.

Through their art, these gifted individuals have challenged us to see the world in new and unexpected ways. As we look forward to our upcoming spring exhibition, Acclaim! Work by Award-Winning International Artists, we invite you to continue following along with us. We promise to bring you even more exciting and inspiring art in the weeks and months to come. Thank you for your support, and we can’t wait to share our love of art with you.

Art Assembled: New This Week in September

September 28, 2022 0 Comment

As we settle into fall, things have not stopped heating up in our neck of the woods! This past month, we’ve been busy prepping for our Fall Art in the Barn exhibition and introducing you all to new artwork from artists all across the globe. Today, we’re recapping what we’ve brought into the mix throughout September.

Aleksandra Stoyanov
11-14as Waiting 1-4, Aleksandra Stoyanov, weaving and pencil drawing on cotton fabric, sisal, cotton fabric, 92.0” x 33” each, 2012. Photo by Tom Grotta.

To start off our series, we bring you Waiting 1-4, which was crated by Ukrainian artist, Aleksandra Stoyanov. This specific collection was the result of some of the unimaginable circumstances that this Stoyanov has experienced throughout her life.

This artwork’s inspiration dates back to the 1990s, after Stoyanov immigrated to Israel amid the worsening anti-semitism in Ukraine where she was born. Each panel in this collection stands nearly eight-feet tall and incorporates the image of a Ukrainian person drawn in pencil and woven in cloth.

This work was woven from Stoyanov’s own handmade threads of raw wool and portrays a deeply emotional quality.

Jiro Yonezawa
111jy Red Fissure 22/3, Jiro Yonezawa, bamboo, cane urushi lacquer, 17″ x 20″ x 17″, 2022. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This next piece was created by internationally acclaimed artist, Jiro Yonezawa. Yonezawa has been paving the way with his innovative bamboo craftsmanship for nearly 40 years.

His artwork can often be recognized for the contrast of disciplined formality in technique and natural freedom in form, which Yonezawa creates through exploration of traditional techniques.

When asked about his work, Yonezawa said:

“Bamboo basketry for me is an expression of detailed precision. In each basket there is the contrast of disciplined formality in technique and natural freedom in form. There is an element of intrigue and an element of complexity for what lies beyond form. These baskets represent a search for the beauty and precision in nature and a way to balance the chaos evident in these times.”

Anda Klancic
19ak B’ Still life, Anda Klancic, hand-controlled machine-embroidered lace, cotton, synthetic, metal threads, 54” x 37,” 1996/2020. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Our next piece was created by Slovenian artist Anda Klancic. Klancic has been recognized internationally for her use a combination of innovative embroidery techniques, many of which are patented under her name, allowing her to meticulously blend metal with cloth cotton or tree bark to fashion abstract pieces that crystallize the aesthesis of nature.

Klancic’s work can often be identified from her innovative and creative use of the machine-embroidered lace technique, which she skillfully combines with experience from other disciplines like photography. Often, her work attempts to express the relationship between humanity and nature.

Micheline Beauchemin
7mb-Petites ailes de glacé blanc, Micheline Beauchemin, nylon, silk and silver aluminum wire, lead wire, 30″ x 32.25″ x 7″, 1980’s. Photos by Tom Grotta.

Last, but not least, we brought you artwork from the late Micheline Beauchemin of Canada. Beauchemin was and still remains a major figure in visual arts – best known for monumental tapestries and theater curtains, as well as works of embroidery and stained glass, costumes and paintings.

As a weaver, Beauchemin’s repertoire of materials included unique combinations of handspun wool, silk and other natural fibers, as well as nylon, aluminum, and gold and silver threads.

As always, we hope you enjoy viewing and learning about these talented contemporary artisst. If you like what we highlighted throughout September; we keep them coming every week, so stay tuned!

As we approach October, make sure you mark your calendar for our upcoming Art in the Barn event, Allies for Art: Work from NATO-related countries (October 8-16, 2022), it’s an event you won’t want to miss! Click here for more information and to reserve your spot.

Art Assembled: New This Week in July

July 27, 2022 0 Comment

Things certainly don’t slow down in the summer over here at browngrotta arts, and July was a testament to that. This month, we’ve introduced you all to works by Lewis Knauss, Shoko Fukuda and Laura Foster Nicholson in our New This Week series. Read on to see what impressive work these artists have been busy creating.

Lewis Knauss
35lk Fire Fright, Lewis Knauss, hemp, linen, acrylic paint, 14.5″ x 14″ x 1.5″, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This colorful piece was created by American artist Lewis Knauss. This particular work was inspired by the environment; more specifically, fires and climate change that has occurred as an impact of over consumption of fossil fuels.

Knauss uses his work as a tool to explore his memories of place and his surroundings in a meaningful way.

Shoko Fukuda
2sf Bound Corners, Shoko Fukuda, ramie, monofilament, plastic, silicone, 5.5″ x 4.75″ x 5.5″, 2021

This complex and ethereal artwork comes from Shoko Fukuda. Fukuda is a basketmaker and Japanese artist that’s been making monumental strides in the art world for over a decade. Often, her work features materials like sisal, ramie and raffia.

She has said she’s interested in “distortion” as a characteristic of basket weaving:
“As I coil the thread around the core and shape it while holding the layers together, I look for the cause of distortion in the nature of the material, the direction of work and the angle of layers to effectively incorporate these elements into my work,” said Fukuda. “The elasticity and shape of the core significantly affect the weaving process, as the thread constantly holds back the force of the core trying to bounce back outward.”

Laura Foster Nicholson
Laura Foster Nicholson, 22lf CMA CGM, wool, mylar, cotton, 27.5” x 68”, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Last, but not least, we introduce you to the unique textile artwork of Laura Foster Nicholson. This American artist is known for her powerful hand woven tapestries that feature whimsical, engaging imagery. Much like the work of Lewis Knauss, Nicholson’s work is often created with the state of the world in mind – including theme’s of how climate change and over consumption is impacting our world today.

With fall quickly approaching, we want to give you all plenty of warning that we have some very exciting exhibitions in the works for you all. Keep your eyes pealed and follow along to see what impressive artwork we bring into our fold in the months to come!

Art Assembled: New This Week in June

June 29, 2022 0 Comment

We kicked off the beginning of summer in true browngrotta arts style – with lots of creativity and outstanding art. Throughout the month we introduced our followers to a wide variety of new art from impressive artists, including: Jeannet Leendertse, Toshio Sekiji, Judy Mulford, and Rachel Max. Curious what these artists are bringing to the table this summer? Read on for the full scoop.

Jeannet Leendertse
3jl Vase-shaped seaweed vessel, Jeannet Leendertse, coiled and stitched basket, Rockweed [ascophyllum nodosum], waxed linen, beeswax, tree resin, 15″ x 11″ x 11″, 2022 Photo by Tom Grotta.

This complex and detailed art comes from talented Dutch fiber artist, Jeannet Leendertse. Having grown up on the Dutch shore and migrating to the rugged coast of Maine in the states – her fiber work often finds sculptural form in landscapes she’s familiar with.

She often explores the concept of belonging in her work by incorporating work that feels like home within the marine environment that surrounds her.

Toshio Sekiji
28ts Subcontinent, Toshio Sekiji, Red, green, yellow, black, and natural lacquer; Hindi (Delhi) and Malayalam (Kerala State) newspapers, 61″ x 61″, 2001. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Up next we have art from internationally acclaimed Japanese artist, Toshio Sekiji. When creating pieces like Subcontinent, Sekiji often explores and merges cultures in his art, telling new stories atop of the old. His technique makes for pieces that are both contemporary and nostalgic.

Sekiji’s works are often made of lacquered newspapers from Japan, India, Korea and the US and are exemplary of the traditional Japanese aesthetic wabi-sabi, a world view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection.

Judy Mulford
30jm A Day at the Beach, Judy Mulford, mixed media, 6″ x 9.5″ x 9.5″, 1997. Photo by Tom Grotta.

A Day at the Beach comes from Californian artist, Judy Mulford. Mulford created groundbreaking art for over 50 years. She is known in the art world for complex creations that celebrate women and the family. When asked about her art and inspirations, Mulford said:

 “My art honors and celebrates the family,” said Judy Mulford. “It is autobiographical, personal, narrative, and a scrapbook of my life. Each piece I create becomes a container of conscious and unconscious thoughts and feelings: a nest, a womb, a secret, a surprise, or a giggle.”

Rachel Max
12rm Balance, Rachel Max, plaited and twined cane, 12″ x 16″ x 9″, 2022. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Last, but not least, we have art from esteemed artist and sculptural basketmaker, Rachel Max. Max created Balance during the height of the pandemic for our Crowdsourcing exhibition. When creating this piece, Max discussed how she aimed to have her artwork reflect on the new found spatial awareness and of “sense touch” throughout society as the air between us and the surfaces we touch became dangerous.

“My aim was to distort the form, but still create something that is both finite and infinite,” said Rachel Max. “It’s rare that the title of a piece comes to me during the making process but as I was weaving this I became aware of its changing weight and stability, forcing me to rethink how I originally intended it to be seen. It became a subconscious reflection on the world we are in now: everything seems to be in the balance.”

If you enjoyed this series – there will be no shortage of new art that we’re bringing into our fold this summer. Be sure to follow along to see what other artwork and projects we will be launching!

Art Assembled: New This Week in May

June 2, 2022 0 Comment

May was a busy month for the browngrotta arts family. Throughout May, we launched our spring exhibition, Crowdsourcing the Collective: a survey of textiles and mixed media art, and it was quite the success! Throughout the month, we introduced some exceptional art to you all. Just in case you missed it, we’re recapping it all here.

Blair Tate
16bt RePair, Blair Tate, linen, cotton rope and aluminum 83” x 58”, 2022. Photo by Tom Grotta.

this piece, RePair, was created by American artist Blair Tate. Tate has been exploring flat woven grids in her work since the 70s. When interviewed about her art, more specifically weaving, Tate said:

“In weaving there is a direct analogy between textile and text – the construction of fabric and the process of writing. Both have methodical underpinnings that provide the framework for development. Both woven strips and written sentences can be rearranged to re-contextualize, to forge relationships, to develop meaning.”  

James Bassler
14jb On Inca Time, James Bassler, four selvedge weaving (scaffold weave) handspun and commercial wool, silk, linen, ramie, sisal, cotton, natural and synthetic dyes, 43″ x 36.75″, 2019. Photo by Tom Grotta.

American textile artist James Bassler did not disappoint when it comes to On Inca Time. This piece was created with inspiration from Pre-Columbian Andean Cultures, which you can see displayed through the checkerboard pattern throughout the four-selvedge weave. For decades Bassler has applied ancient techniques and materials to create works with contemporary themes, and we remain in awe of the outcome!

Eduardo Portillo & Mariá Eugenia Dávila
22pd Océano Cósmico, Eduardo Portillo & Mariá Eugenia Dávila, silk, cotton,
alpaca, indigo and copper leaf, 59” x 31”, 2022. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Océano Cósmico was created by Venezuelan artists Eduardo Portillo & Mariá Eugenia Dávila. 

These artists’ work is often driven by their relationship with their surroundings and how their ideas can be communicated within a contemporary textile language. Océano Cósmico reflects their conception of an imagined Cosmos, “a parallel world that we still see in the midst of changing times.” They also aim to promote an understanding and appreciation of natural dyes as an element in textiles, their importance as a means to preserve and disseminate cultural values and as a medium of contemporary expression. 

Norma Minkowitz
95nm Mother Mine, Norma Minkowitz, Mixed media
(My Mother’s Gloves) and fiber, 6.5″ x 11.75″ x 8″, 1984. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This profound artwork comes from one of our favorite artists, Norma Minkowitz. This particular piece of work incorporates a pair of gloves her mother owned as a tribute. 

Pat Campbell
36pc Mandela IV, Pat Campbell, rice paper, reed and wood, 19.75″ x 14.5″ x 9.875″, 2012

This exceptional piece of art comes from American artist, Pat Campbell. Often, Campbell’s intricate, airy pieces are influenced by Japanese shoji screen, which is traditionally made of rice paper. When asked about the why behind the her medium of choice, Campbell said: 

“Paper is exciting to work with. It is a fragile material that can be easily ripped or torn,” said Pat Campbell.” It is a natural choice of material for my work. It provides the translucency I am seeking in constructions.”

We drop new art every week, so follow us on social media to keep up with the art we bring into the fold! To get your hands on some art of your own, checkout our exhibition: Crowdsourcing the Collective: a survey of textiles and mixed media art, which is available online until June 13.

Art Assembled: New This Week in February

March 3, 2022 0 Comment

February has been a busy month at browngrotta arts, as we move quickly into 2022, we have been hard at work planning our spring exhibition and introducing you all to the talented artists we have the opportunity to work with. Most recently, we’ve introduced our followers to works by: Jiro Yonezawa, Keiji Nio, Masako Yoshida, and Jo Barker. All uniquely different and exceptionally talented – it’s worth a recap to ensure you all see these impressive works.

Jiro Yonezawa
100jy Red Fossil 20-4, Jiro Yonezawa, bamboo, urushi lacquer,
22.5″ x 21.25″ x 21″, 2020. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This one of a kind piece, Red Fossil, comes from acclaimed Japanese artist, Jiro Yonezawa. Yonezawa’s work has been exhibited nationally and internationally on a large scale, and he was also featured in our Japandi exhibition. Yonezawa is widely known for his mastery of bamboo basketry created from traditional techniques; with each artwork he creates, there is often a contrast of disciplined formality in technique and natural freedom in form. 

He has said that his recent baskets “represent a search for the beauty and precision in nature and a way to balance the chaos evident in these times.” 

Keiji Nio
Keiji Nio, 27kn Flowers, braided polyester 30” x 30” x 3”, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Flowers is one of our favorite pieces from Keiji Nio. If you don’t know by now, Keiji Nio is a Japanese artist, who is commonly known for impeccable plaiting and textile works. Nio’s work is done through the traditional technique of Kumihimo, a Japanese form of braid-making.

In this particular piece, Nio said he drew inspiration from flowers he observed online amid the pandemic: “The picture of the flower used for this work was taken when I was looking for the flower that emphasized red, yellow and green in the botanical garden,” said Keiji Nio. “Now that I can’t go out freely, I made a work using these flowers as materials so that I can feel the vivid color and fragrance of these flowers which we’ll experience again in the world after COVID is cured.” 

Masako Yoshida
13my #890 Bark Man, Masako Yoshida, walnut and flax, 13.5″ x 8″ x 4.75″, 2018.
Photo by Tom Grotta.

Another gifted artist we highlighted throughout February was Masako Yoshida. Yoshida is a Japanese artist who has committed much of her career to also teaching her techniques, which have resulted in work being exhibited worldwide.

Often, the constructions Yoshida envisions are built by interlacing sheets of walnut bark with string made of nettle. She has said that her work often provides her a means of release, allowing the truth to emerge and open the mind.

Jo Barker
Jo Barker 13jb cc, woven on cotton warp using wool, cotton,
linen, silk and embroidery threads 15” x 33.5”, 2010. Photo

Jo Barker is British textile artist who has been long known for her complex designs and woven tapestries that are based upon a long-term interest in color. This contemporary abstract tapestry, Cobalt Haze, is no exception.

When explaining her inspirations, Barker said: “My current work is a part of an ongoing series of tapestries exploring themes initially inspired by qualities and patterns of light: transient and ephemeral starting points translated slowly into woven form. I am interested in the contradiction of the contrast in materials between the flowing nature of ink and paint and the illusion of fluidity translated into soft, richly colored yarns.

We hope you all enjoyed this recap and opportunity to learn more about the artists we work with. Follow along throughout March to see more new artwork at browngrotta arts!

Art Assembled: New This Week in January

February 3, 2022 0 Comment

We’ve been kicking off the year at browngrotta arts with some impressive art, and we’re excited to keep it coming for the rest of the year! In January, we introduced our followers to art from Eva Vargö, Ane Henriksen, Hisako Sekijima, Gjertrud Hals, Blair Tate and so many more talented artists. Just in case you missed it, we’re recapping it here so you can view all of their impressive works in one place.

Eva Vargö 7ev Japandí, Japanese and Korean book papers 23.5” x 22.375” x 2.5”, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This art, Japandí, was created by Swedish artist, Eva Vargö. When creating this piece, Vargö used Japanese and Korean book papers collected throughout her travels across East Asia. Vargö integrated these materials through a complex process where she fused paper and linen-thread materials into her weaving technique. When asked about why she creates, she has said she often weaves to deals with life’s fast pace.

“The working process is often repetitive and so it becomes meditative,” said Eva Vargö. “Mostly it gives me some peace of mind and my aim is to work at a slow pace. To be able to do one thing at a time without rush and to let go – to meet the unforeseen. I want to trust my intuition and my inner voice.”

30ah Reserve, Ane Henriksen, linen, silk, acrylic painted rubber matting, oak frame, 93.75” x 127.625” x 2.5”, 2015. Photos by Tom Grotta.

This artwork, Reserve, was handwoven by Danish artist Ane Henriksen. This profound piece was created with the intention of highlighting some of the ecological peril that was see in our society today. When explaining this piece, Henriksen said:

“Nature is threatened,” said Ane Henriksen. “I hope this is expressed in my image, which at first glance can be seen as a peaceful, recognizable view of nature, but when you move closer and see the material, it might make you uneasy, and add thoughts of how human activity is a threat against nature. By framing the nature motif museum-like in a solid oak frame, I try to make you aware how we store small natural remains in reserves — in the same way as we store exquisite objects from our past history in our museums.”

650hs Suspended Decision, Hisako Sekijima, shuro-palm, walnut, ramie, twill-plaiting
and connected, 10.625″ x 15.75″ x 7.5″, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Suspended Decision was created by acclaimed Japanese artist Hisako Sekijima. In the art world, Sekijima has long been recognized as an artist whose innovation and artistry seem to know few bounds as her techniques and approaches extend well beyond traditional basketing making. 

“I call myself a basketmaker because I inform my work by thinking and processing the nature and history of basketry,” said Hisako Sekijima. “And also, because in order to realize the ideas, I choose to use materials and structural methods that have typically been used for basketmaking. It pleases me that my ideas and the final results of my work expand the boundary well beyond what I once thought of as the domain of basketry.”

6gh Terra 2021 series, Gjertrud Hals, silk thread, resin, 7″ x 13.5″ x 13.5″, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

Norwegian artist, Gjertrud Hals, consistently pushes the envelope and impresses with her creative knitted vessels. Hals was born and raised on the northwestern coast Norway and has spent much of her time traveling and learning about various cultures, and she has discussed how these experiences largely influence her work today. More specifically, Hals has discussed how India, Jordan, Norway and Japan have had a significant impact on her artwork.

“As a seasoned traveler I have observed many different cultures,” said Gjertrud Hals. “Much of my artistic work is an attempt at expressing the connection between the islands micro-history and the world’s macro-history.”

15bt Pangaea, Blair Tate, linen, cotton rope and aluminum, 46″ x 29″ x 1.5″, 2021. Photos by Tom Grotta.

This piece comes from American artist, Blair Tate. Tate has been creating contemporary work since the 1970’s under the influence of the 60’s minimalism and modernist architecture and is known for exploring flat, woven grids in her work.

Pangaea was created last year amid the pandemic and was featured in our exhibition Adaptation: Artists Respond to Change. When creating this specific piece, Tate said she consciously wove to the very limits of her warp to minimize loom waste. Whereas in the past she said she may have incorporated interruptions in the strips while weaving, thereby wasting the unwoven warp; in Pangaea, the gaps emerge only in the rearranging.

Like what you see? We introduce new art every Monday! Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with our latest works.

Art Assembled: New This Week in December

December 29, 2021 0 Comment

As this year comes to a close, we’re finishing our New This Week series with some of our favorite artists! Throughout the month of December we’ve highlighted art from notable artists like: Norie Hatakeyama, Mia Olsson, Grethe Sørensen, and Åse Ljones. Here’s a recap of all the art we’re closing out 2021 with.

  • Norie Hatekayama 22nh Complex Plaiting Series Two Force 9801 plaited paper fiber strips, 12” x 12” x 5.5”, 1998. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This piece comes from Japanese artist, Norie Hatakeyama. Hatakeyama is predominantly known for her contemporary and complex plaited works of paper tape. The works resemble living organisms — and, on close inspection, have no apparent starting or endpoints.

  • 11mo Together, Mia Olsson, sisal fiber relief, acrylic, 17.75″ x 15″ x 3″, 2021. Photos by Tom Grotta.

This piece comes from Swedish artist, Mia Olsson. Together is made of sisal fibers, dyed and formed in a technique unique to Olsson. The sisal fibers used are shiny and reflect the light, even more when formed in relief. The colors are richly saturated — engaging the viewer on each viewing.

  • Grethe Sørensen, 21gs Tokyo Nights ‘Light Reflection 2’, Organic cotton, Trevira CS, viscose, 65″ x 82.5″, 2021. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This piece comes from internationally acclaimed artist, Grethe Sørensen. Since 2004, she has been working exclusively with digital thread control/digital jacquard weaving. She is credited with revolutionizing the art of tapestry through her method of converting photographic pixels into threads. The technique allows her to create complex motifs; the city, urban landscapes, light and optical patterns are frequent inspirations for her.

  • 15al Tangled In, Åse Ljones, hand embroidery on linen, 31.625″ x 55.25″ x 2.5″, 2016. Photo by Tom Grotta.

This artwork was created by talented Norwegian artist, Åse Ljones. Ljones uses a blizzard of stitches to create her works. Ljones told TextileArtist.org in an interview that, “To embroider by hand takes time. It is a slow process that gives room for silence. I seek silence. In silence, I retrieve memories and find new paths forward. In all my work as an artist I have eliminated the extraneous. I’ve cultivated simplicity to approach the core of myself, in myself, with fewer measures.” For Ljones, “the sewing needle is like the pencil is to the author,” with it, she can create pictures and tell stories.

Thank you to everyone who’s been a part of this past year at browngrotta arts. We’re going into 2022 excited for another year of art-filled fun!