Sunday, July 22, 2012

Tree Gallery Project (a happening)

I was thrilled to be selected to have a solo show on Sunday, July 22 at the Tree Gallery Project at 108 Bowery.

The tree, a honey locust, arrived in late November of 2011, which inspired artist/gallerist/designer Kerry Stevens to host art happenings outside on the tree!

My series, "Accumulations" are handmade paper paintings based on direct observation of the landscape—the accumulation of leaves, plants, and algae on the surface of freshwater ponds.

I've been taking photographs of the pond surfaces for the last 2 years, and was wondering how to translate them into artwork. Drawing and painting didn't seem to get the integrity of the work across. Then I had my "aha moment" and I started to make handmade paper (made of plant material and water) to realize the pond formations. I pour handmade paper pulp into a screen in algae patterns, then put black paper pulp (as the surface of the water) on top, and then add more paper pulp to create a 2-sided artwork. Lots of great images and more information here!





3 comments:

Beth Tondreau said...

CONGRATS! Very cool and beautiful.

Why so shy about publicizing your open/opening beforehand. Those of us who hang nearby and would've loved to see your hand-made offspring of trees on the tree!

Anyhoo, the work looks great on the tree—and on the grate!

Suzanne Dell'Orto said...

Sheer neglect...I'm so sorry I didn't email you! I was so busy getting ready for the show I forgot about the marketing. Lesson learned :)

Anonymous said...

Awesome! I definitely want to see the work in person. I am bummed that we missed the show, but it looks fascinating & I want to see more. Very cool translation of the accumulations into the art. Thanks for sharing!! Pam