Figureworks is pleased to partner with Advocates for Fine Art Enameling, Inc. to present some striking works of art done by melting glass on metal. It is called enameling, or sometimes vitreous enameling, to clearly distinguish it from “enamel paint.” Vitreous enameling is an ancient art form which is older than recorded history. It had been used mainly in the decorative arts, but, since the 16th century, it also has been the medium for many impactful works of fine art. This exhibition, Forged by Fire, is the premier exhibition for Advocates for Fine Art Enameling, Inc. This exhibition presents the work of seven contemporary artists who work in enamel. All of them use the medium to convey aspects of the human experience with the wonderful colors, textures, and reflectances which can only be achieved with glass on metal. These works may be different from anything you have ever seen.
Internationally recognized for their artistic achievements, the seven adventurous enamelists share a wonder, even a reverence, for all of life, and a pursuit of joy and of fun.
June Jasen’s wall works depict majestic landscapes with godly figures. With a touch of levity, she also will be showing her notable, life-size, realistic NOSES. June plays with low-fire ceramic materials, stencils and transfers, to incorporate great fun into her process.
Howard Eisman’s wall hangings and sculpture “convey the idea that life can be a colorful, exuberant adventure.” His golden ladies joyously leap with sensuous abandon into gleaming, swirling skies. While many enamel works are built up of panels accommodated in commercial kilns, Eisman has built his own extra-large kiln to accommodate pieces 2′ x 3′.
Cynthia Miller’s paneled expansive skies also gleam, but with luxurious order and serenity. “Many of my enameled pieces are designed like musical compositions: colors overlay and peek through each other, revealing lush depths under a smooth, shiny surface.”
Herbert Friedson’s wall hangings impose colorful complexity on fantastic humanoid forms to raise existential questions and “invite the viewer to interpret the work on a personal basis.” He incorporates fine materials such as mahogany inlay into richly textured, embellished surfaces.
Sean Alton’s sculptures similarly have a fantastical quality, colorful and playful. “I like pieces with movement and surprises.” Alton adds torch firing to kiln fusing in order to structure his fabulous creations.
In contrast, Mary Chuduk’s wall hangings are detailed, representational, to “examine the preciousness of architecture, religion, folklore, and modes of dress/design from cultures that diverge from the American mainstream.”
Finally, Stell Shevis, who at 99 years of age, symbolically expresses loss in her poignant wall hanging, Death of a Child. Throughout all these years, she still says, “I asked for wonder. There’s so much wonder in the world.”
Figureworks is located at 168 North 6th St., Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211, one block from the Bedford Avenue “L” train. The gallery is open to the public Saturday and Sunday from 1-6 PM and is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary and 20th century fine art of the human form.
For more information, please call 718-486-7021 or visit us online at www.figureworks.com
