Going on view to the public, Thursday, April 7, 2016 at the Glass Wheel Studio, a contemporary art facility located in Norfolk, Virginia, will feature works by Washington-based artist, Kelly O’Dell and Hampton Roads-based artist, April Taylor-Martin. Both exhibitions explore the interconnected relationships between humans and critically-endangered animals. The exhibitions run through May 22, 2016.
In addition to the above, on Friday, April 1, 2016, from 7:00-9:00 pm, there will be an opening reception where guests will also be able to meet Dudley, Virginia Zoo’s sloth, who is making his first public appearance in Norfolk to educate the public about local conservation efforts. More can be found at: http://bit.ly/GWSThirdExhibition.
Known for her hot-sculpted glass forms, O’Dell’s newest body of work, “Critical Masse” challenges not only her skills, but also the role humans play in animal extinction. The exhibition showcases 13 animal busts executed in clear, white and mirrored glass. Each animal becomes a ghostly memento of all we stand to lose if we do not take actions to protect these magnificent creatures. “Kelly’s glass sculptures are delicate representations of animals whose impending extinction deserves our full attention,” said Cheryl White, Glass Wheel Studio director. “We can no longer overlook the impact humans continue to have on species with which we share the same planet.”
Taylor-Martin hopes to draw a line from our distant past and plot a trajectory for a more positive future. Her exhibition, “Beyond the Pale: Conjuring New Worlds” includes paintings, ceramics and interactive pieces, such as zoetropes and thaumatropes, that enable viewers to participate in the re-animation of species long extinct or see the fate awaiting many others. Her works also highlight wilderness warriors who have made contributions to the protection of endangered species.
“April’s work employs mythological and personal archetypes to tell the story of human and animal co-existence,” added White. “Visitors are asked to participate in the art driving home the direct influence that humans assert over other species.”
For more information, call Cheryl White at 757. 819.4150 or email: Cheryl@GlassWheelStudio.com or see: www.GlassWheelStudio.com.
About
Glass Wheel Studio is a contemporary art facility located in the heart of The NEON, Norfolk’s Arts District. The recently renovated 8,500-square-foot space features two rotating galleries and affordable artist studios. Through stimulating exhibitions and an active Studio Artist Program, Glass Wheel Studio aims to cultivate a deep appreciation for contemporary art in glass and beyond. It serves as an incubator for extraordinary ideas and encourages artists across all disciplines to pursue and elevate their craft.
