I moved to Ann Arbor 18 years ago and was immediately drawn to the Ann Arbor Art Center. I have always seen it as a part of the identity of our creative community and a place with a really cool vibe.
I moved to Ann Arbor 18 years ago and was immediately drawn to the Ann Arbor Art Center. I have always seen it as a part of the identity of our creative community and a place with a really cool vibe.
Inherent State exhibition
February 10 - March 18, 2012
How often do you find two fiber artists with two sisters that are creative writers all generating work based on experiences rooted from their childhood in a constantly changing world? The two sets of sisters, Brooks Harris Stevens and Jennifer Harris closely connect with Sarah and Cathy Wagner through their methodologies, imaginations and experiences.
Brooks Harris Stevens and Jennifer Harris directly make works based on their childhood experiences. Brooks uses direct objects, images and materials that evoke specific ideas or memories about events from a specific time period; the same time period that inspiration Jennifer uses for her for her short stories.
Abstract works by Sarah Wagner focus on unnatural environments creating models for sisters' parallel worlds, while Cathy Wagner explores the realm of experimental poetry. Both sets in individual manners that are truly affected by their inherent characteristics as siblings. Just as there are similarities within the roots of all of the work there are all enticingly diverse.
TEXTural Object workshop
Saturday, February 25th, 2012 from 9am-4pm - NEW DATE!
The workshop taught by artists Sarah Wagner and Brooks Harris Stevens will introduce you to basic three-dimensional fiber construction and surface embellishment using a variety of materials. With ideas stemming from their show Inherent State, discussion of links between text and textile will serve as a starting point for art-making.
Text from everyday life or textural mark-making will be drawn from to add inspiration to your own object as you begin making your object. This class will touch on many aspects of sewn construction and embellishment in a prelusive way, where exposure will be favored above mastery. Basic form construction using hand and machine stitching will be accented by several embellishment techniques such as stitching, photo-copy transfer and appliqué using fabric, paper or other pliable surfaces. Bring a notebook, a sewing machine if you have one, and prepare for a wild ride. This class will be directed for all levels. Register here!
