thePULSETaking the Ordinary and Making It Extraordinary
By Rachel Shuster
Worcester Center for Crafts (WCC) will be unveiling their “The Art of Dining ~ Vegetative States” exhibition for the third year this September. The exhibit displays artistic ways to show how simple objects can become true works of art.
“Just because you use something every day, doesn’t mean it’s not art. ‘The Art of Dining’ reminds people that objects you have in your daily life should be celebrated as works of art. There are ways to surround yourself with handmade pieces that are still functional and usable. It doesn’t have to be some painting, it could be a beautifully crafted bowl or platter,” said Chad Sirois, Public Relations Coordinator for WCC.
The exhibit showcases 40 national and local artists who work in glass, wood and ceramics. There is also another portion of wall art called “Vegetative States,” which displays photography from Adam Laipson.
“I invite the artists to participate. Adam in a nationally known photographer and his work complements the [other]artists’ work,” said Candace Casey, curator for the exhibit at WCC.
The exhibit, which takes about a year to put together and is free to view, kicks off with an opening night reception that is used as a fundraiser.
“Opening night is a fundraiser to help support future events for the school and gallery program. We bring in people to curate shows, give people the gallery space and have openings for artists and photographers from the Worcester community. The charge at the opening reception allows us to afford to have these classes and programs. Our mission is to support artists, entrepreneurship, and education,” Casey said.
The reception includes local wine tastings, food provided by and crafted into works of art by students of Worcester Vocational High School, and flower arrangements from the Worcester Garden Club. “The flower arrangements are specifically inspired by the artists’ pieces in the show. The tables that display the artists’ work are set up as if you’re actually going to sit and eat,” Sirois said.
One of the artists, Keri Straka, has been practicing for 15 years, focusing on textural and nature inspired work. A west coast native who moved to the east coast for her master’s in ceramics at Mass College of Art, Straka is now a professor of ceramics at Framingham State University and is thrilled to be a part of the exhibit.
“The WCC is so supportive of emerging artists. The other artists in this exhibit are phenomenal, the gallery space is beautiful. Candace allows us the freedom to create something sculptural and function while still being true to ourselves,” Straka said.
“The Art of Dining ~ Vegetative States” exhibit runs from September 13 through October 13, 2012, with Adam Laipson’s photography running through October 20th as his own show.
Contact Candace Casey at 508.753.8183 x 3006 for more information.
Photos: Art of Dining Exhibit: 2011; (bottom left) Jane Wallace (floral) – Marion Angelica.
