Material World
TECHNE is proud to present Material World, a group show curated by Chuck Thomas and Jason Clay Lewis featuring artists Trevor Amery, Matthew Bacher, Annie Claflin, Ben Godward, Becky Guttin, Ye Hongxing, Adriene Hughes, Monica Loss, Michelle Montjoy, Jason Rohlf, Kline Swonger, Christana Updegraff.
Material World features artists that focus on materials as a significant source of inspiration. The materials an artist uses are fundamental in their recognition and success. Dissatisfied with the constraints of conventional media, we are seeing more than ever how artists are integrating a variety of unconventional materials into their creative processes. The exhibition highlights materials such as asphalt, resin, salt, sand, and resin. More subtly incorporated into several of the artists work are materials such as rice paper, cotton fiber, and various types of sewing techniques.
There is a performative aspect to each of the artists creative process. The significance lies not only in the final artworks, but also in the manner in which the materials are being combined. As with alchemy, it was once believed that lead could be transformed into gold. This transformative quality of materials symbolizes the artists search for meaning and essence. The artworks in the show contain references to well-known myths and narratives, expanding on thematic and universal human experiences such as guilt, regret, despair, quiet reflection, unrest, and regeneration.
Art history frequently categorizes artists based on their genres and techniques. However, an artist's style and choice of subject matter are often influenced by opportunities, financial constraints, and their surrounding environment. As artists develop, the material itself takes precedence, and begins to defines our style. Artists reliance on materials is of paramount importance. The true synergy lies not between the subject matter and the object, or the final product and the viewer, but rather between the artist and the materials they employ.
Analyzing the relationship between the artist and their materials indicates that as an artist immerses themselves further in their craft, the attention moves away from the subject or the final outcome. The more profound the connection an artist establishes with their work, the greater the significance attributed to the materials employed and the creative process becomes. Understanding and mastering the tools available to us is vital, especially regarding the artists relationship with their chosen material. Just as a lyricist provides a foundation for a musician to compose a song, the material serves as a catalyst for the art.
Artists have long accepted the idea that their creative expressions will outlive them. Historically, artists have been viewed as highly skilled craftsmen, developing techniques and skills comparable to those of scientists, musicians, and writers. Consequently, the technical elements employed by artists have always held great significance. As craftsmen, artists dedicate their lives to the continuous improvement of their art.
Mastering of materials is essential to the creative process. The more adept we become with our skill level, the more effectively we can convey our artistic vision, whether it involves a realistic subject observed from life, a conceptual piece, or an abstract creation. The artistic vocabulary of values, colors, and details represents a philosophy of perceiving and interpreting what we observe in reality or in our imagination. A deeper understanding of our materials simplifies the translation of our artistic concepts. It is not only the materials we select, but rather how we utilize them that showcases our proficiency as artists.
As artists begin their exploration, they may find the multitude of available options to be quite daunting. Initially, students engage in classes under the guidance of instructors. The romanticized image of the solitary, tortured artist working alone in a studio is a relatively modern concept. In truth, art has historically been a collaborative pursuit, with artists benefiting from shared experiences and insights. The true essence of art encompasses not just the act of creating works, but also the sharing of ideas and techniques. The knowledge acquired through interactions with fellow artists, mentors, and peers often proves to be the most enriching as one develops. The pleasure derived from art is found not solely in the finished product but also in the journey of exploration and the creative process itself.
