tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38246843123140735062024-02-22T11:49:10.147-08:00Feminist Art Project- Oklahoma ChapterThe Feminist Art Project is a collaborative national initiative celebrating the Feminist Art Movement and the aesthetic, intellectual and political impact of women on the visual arts, art history, and art practice. The project is a strategic intervention against the ongoing erasure of women from the cultural record. It promotes diverse feminist art events, education and publications and facilitates networking and regional program development throughout the U.S. and the state of Oklahomajennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-10442220113525146632011-02-10T18:09:00.000-08:002011-02-10T18:23:12.337-08:00Upcoming Events for Oklahoma's Chapter of TFAPHope that 2011 is off to an awesome start for all of you.<div><br /></div><div>We have a couple local events on the calendar and welcome new members and supporters of our local chapter.</div><div><br /></div><div>Networking Night for Oklahoma's Chapter of TFAP</div><div>Monday, February 21st</div><div>6:00 PM </div><div>Prohibition Room (in the Gold Dome) 1223, NW 23rd St., OKC</div><div>This is an informal get together in which members of the local Feminist Art Project can meet other members, learn more about TFAP and contribute ideas for future OK TFAP plans and events. More information at the following link:</div><div>http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=191960617488759&ref=ts</div><div><br /></div><div>"That's What SHE Said;" An OKC StorySLAM</div><div>Friday, March 18th</div><div>7:00 PM</div><div>Istvan Gallery, 1218 N Western Ave., OKC</div><div>The OKC StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling event. Anyone can participate as a storyteller or audience member. To participate as a storyteller, participants must sign up by 7:30. All stories must be 7 minutes or less and must relate to the them of "That's What SHE Said." (Stories about brave and outspoken women). No charge to attend. Content is geared towards a mature audience. We will be using this event to build support for our local TFAP chapter. </div><div>See event information here:</div><div>http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=200041823346709</div><div><br /></div><div>Join us! </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-84757878117240104332010-12-10T07:36:00.000-08:002010-12-10T07:39:58.507-08:00Come say hi to us at Deluxe OK!Hey there!<br /><br />TFAP-OK will have a booth at the incredible <a href="http://www.deluxeok.net/">Deluxe OK </a>this weekend, at the Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City! (click click the link for all the details!)<br /><br />This event is an amazing showcase for independent artists, crafters, and designers of all genders, a place to shop local and get some great gifts for the people on your 'nice list' (or on your 'naughty list', we don't judge)<br /><br />Stop by and say hi!jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-73499722690486100312010-10-04T20:40:00.000-07:002010-10-04T20:51:57.318-07:00photos from Dear Mary or Jari reception!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fuQVgqo5-N8Jgff-2CiZo-Th6tRPrRbz1L33WgaWaNHoGJLH0swn0zaLqMzuAV7yCYcfCvjee1s4t3Vp9gpIcd3ieRdRqToaMye-aF6ja4uU3X7b9wCnKITPhLb9FSqQDMgN36yivOaT/s1600/IMG_3055.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524404544550080434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fuQVgqo5-N8Jgff-2CiZo-Th6tRPrRbz1L33WgaWaNHoGJLH0swn0zaLqMzuAV7yCYcfCvjee1s4t3Vp9gpIcd3ieRdRqToaMye-aF6ja4uU3X7b9wCnKITPhLb9FSqQDMgN36yivOaT/s320/IMG_3055.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGEJ-Bjqk8PZUNpY60KLcH6EA261ovUxa8hIQkD0IbjRRIJMuJCAMLyrWocsRUMYyhRCnnob_MGhYmW4_N9SFxIOJIuP5ZHvxlLV1-J7w9HNUskbXXul9HXie6oo_tIOG-o8hFi7SD__7l/s1600/IMG_3052.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524404536986818306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGEJ-Bjqk8PZUNpY60KLcH6EA261ovUxa8hIQkD0IbjRRIJMuJCAMLyrWocsRUMYyhRCnnob_MGhYmW4_N9SFxIOJIuP5ZHvxlLV1-J7w9HNUskbXXul9HXie6oo_tIOG-o8hFi7SD__7l/s320/IMG_3052.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoZ-mEsyMaoRQtLUlg5J7XVAVTjN8UKSBN474Hios_N53Jp5MGqU8D0v9y_QS4_j5NiYpP6Bc64ED0sd_na9kBY_2iV4ulUAraYboKyXqlca0t-6Tn50jB33ErSJfmrmm5mCS-obc5RnV/s1600/IMG_3053.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524404530722928370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoZ-mEsyMaoRQtLUlg5J7XVAVTjN8UKSBN474Hios_N53Jp5MGqU8D0v9y_QS4_j5NiYpP6Bc64ED0sd_na9kBY_2iV4ulUAraYboKyXqlca0t-6Tn50jB33ErSJfmrmm5mCS-obc5RnV/s320/IMG_3053.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnahHpQ0OcNmMJV_r0_MRdB-hYE1qpnBQjcIedfPIWJb5dALdJ7J12zrIjmQjosGy87vUs8PrvqQ05MxFOkYGvjo7Z2WLxRx5WYP7ayJEdmhA6JzmW3-yygEmGdMCL7wuNNUnlwRxZscRt/s1600/IMG_3051.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524403354834798274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnahHpQ0OcNmMJV_r0_MRdB-hYE1qpnBQjcIedfPIWJb5dALdJ7J12zrIjmQjosGy87vUs8PrvqQ05MxFOkYGvjo7Z2WLxRx5WYP7ayJEdmhA6JzmW3-yygEmGdMCL7wuNNUnlwRxZscRt/s320/IMG_3051.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh90_MOTtoHP3UrHQiRNuC8KeTVO_T2dPIG60LUeu94vBPjT7pH7sFGEs-CoghhcITv0tOdIcmWvRPS-JrrxxxYEvQSk1tCX7tKk57T4n98gQu-J1u2VRhNte224R6qOHstgmu1KYfboi-X/s1600/IMG_3050.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524403348276751682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh90_MOTtoHP3UrHQiRNuC8KeTVO_T2dPIG60LUeu94vBPjT7pH7sFGEs-CoghhcITv0tOdIcmWvRPS-JrrxxxYEvQSk1tCX7tKk57T4n98gQu-J1u2VRhNte224R6qOHstgmu1KYfboi-X/s320/IMG_3050.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-jePRryBUxaXogqIGjDOp0U9EmpSVne1-amRkw-5K6lTnLoVjnNx4fVGpGyJIN7HhxFbqNFPw4UHcYhUn8zsP8i-08T9jFXdvYR0oaGiDXQCbyvcVMmDdeNaAOyAoCoy4XvKTmTJo_zP8/s1600/IMG_3049.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524403338306642018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-jePRryBUxaXogqIGjDOp0U9EmpSVne1-amRkw-5K6lTnLoVjnNx4fVGpGyJIN7HhxFbqNFPw4UHcYhUn8zsP8i-08T9jFXdvYR0oaGiDXQCbyvcVMmDdeNaAOyAoCoy4XvKTmTJo_zP8/s320/IMG_3049.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7MHk-uvC9ofP8MBpisnFruizWifeVN9RC5suWHJuhuGhryVtdykaRslXB-IuuMfDl2SkuEfXA-_T4Tzo3sYq5qqwmr7vQwT-YYbU0Zb5tolSuhrcoptRyn2OPVnf5KeyaCEdshCxufzL/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524403336205395826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7MHk-uvC9ofP8MBpisnFruizWifeVN9RC5suWHJuhuGhryVtdykaRslXB-IuuMfDl2SkuEfXA-_T4Tzo3sYq5qqwmr7vQwT-YYbU0Zb5tolSuhrcoptRyn2OPVnf5KeyaCEdshCxufzL/s320/IMG_3044.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ozJWXmQhns6M65U-BMR9qGoJ4jDyNFAqfApgxc_TmPpKm8y4sQ8ZjKyWRmgHUUyOz6WWe_kL8WSXvBH-0zFT0KdM2BI3LsIvdUeEpOL02U-PWzZj9cExmiCDRl-1xEgfORNBsENjlJq8/s1600/IMG_3043.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524403330199047218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ozJWXmQhns6M65U-BMR9qGoJ4jDyNFAqfApgxc_TmPpKm8y4sQ8ZjKyWRmgHUUyOz6WWe_kL8WSXvBH-0zFT0KdM2BI3LsIvdUeEpOL02U-PWzZj9cExmiCDRl-1xEgfORNBsENjlJq8/s320/IMG_3043.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> </div><div>Enjoy!<br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-30764025246106193622010-10-02T11:40:00.001-07:002010-10-06T07:38:13.767-07:00You can still participate in the "Dear Mary or Jari Project"Last night was the opening reception for the "Dear Mary or Jari Project" at a.k.a. Gallery in the Paseo. Well, the reception was absolutely terrific! <div><br /></div><div>Many thanks to all who made it last night a great evening:</div><div>Ashley Griffith, gallery owner and director </div><div>DJ Neu provided music for the event</div><div>Lauren Zuniga performed her original poetry</div><div>TFAP-OK Task Force Members</div><div><br /></div><div>...and of course all of the fabulous artists that participated! </div><div><br /></div><div>Several artists asked us last night if they could still participate in this project. The answer is YES!</div><div><br /></div><div>We will still accept submissions for this project until October 21st. They will be included in the book that is presented to our first female governor. </div><div><br /></div><div>A closing reception will take place at the aka Gallery (3001 Paseo) on the evening of October 21st. Participants can deliver their work to the gallery on that date. </div><div><br /></div><div>Follow this link to download the Call for Entries if you would like to be part of the Dear Mary or Jari Project: </div><div>http://www.mediafire.com/?txt3yi1bdiqf1pn</div><div><br /></div><div>For questions, please email: <a href="mailto:feministartprojectok@gmail.com">feministartprojectok@gmail.com</a> </div><div><br /></div><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-15893824833295159862010-09-30T08:42:00.000-07:002010-09-30T08:46:16.292-07:00a little light readingWhat is feminist art? Who makes it- just women? just feminists? What is its place in contemporary art?<br /><br />The Washington Post has a whole section of articles on the topic, from artist profiles to reviews and essays that put the feminist art movement in context. It's not Oklahoma women artists, but it is food for thought. Enjoy-<br /><br />Read more <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/artsandliving/museums/features/2007/feminism-and-art/index.html">here</a>:Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-11009155754717947552010-09-29T13:06:00.000-07:002010-09-29T13:11:29.120-07:00This Friday (10/1/10) in the Paseo-What are you doing this Friday?<br /><br />Heading to the Paseo's first Friday, you say? Why that sounds fantastic!<br /><br />While you're there, be sure to stop by <a href="http://www.akagallery.net/">aka gallery</a> for the opening of the <em>Dear Mary or Jari Project </em>(squee! we are excited!!) and submit your own message to our next governor.<br /><br />If you haven't been to First Friday before, well- you should. Galleries open late, lots of fun people, art everywhere, refreshments, and the weather should be perfect. I hope we'll see you there!<br /><em></em><br /><em></em>jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-80694434551076111742010-09-17T13:13:00.001-07:002010-09-17T13:14:27.091-07:00p.s.do you have your piece ready for the <a href="http://www.mediafire.com/?txt3yi1bdiqf1pn"><em>Dear Mary or Jari </em>Project</a>?<br /><br />*gentle reminder*<br /><br />pass it on- we can't wait to see your entries!jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-33361120556593012842010-09-17T12:58:00.000-07:002010-09-17T13:11:18.296-07:00this weekend- Lightwell Gallery, IAO, OVAC Art Criticism PanelLooking for something to keep you out of trouble this weekend as we say goodbye to summer? How about some art by Oklahoma women?<br /><br />Large installation work by the inimitable romy owens will open tonight at the University of Oklahoma's Lightwell Gallery. Seriously, not to be missed: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/event.php?eid=155280561148862">details</a><br /><br />In downtown OKC, the new opening at IAO features some lovely ceramic pieces by Tulsa's Laurie Spencer and continues from 6-9 tonight. <a href="http://www.iaogallery.org/">read more...</a><br /><br />And, if that's not enough for you, Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition is hosting the third and last in a series of public panels tying in with their Art Writing and Curatorial Fellowship. The topic of this panel will be <em>Art Criticism: Writing, Editing, and Publishing</em> and it will take place at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art on Saturday afternoon (9/18) starting at 1pm. <a href="http://www.ovac-ok.org/Events/events_writingfellowship.cfm">Check it out.</a><br /><br />Okay, the last one is not 'art by Oklahoma women' per se, but it's a noteworthy visit to our state by some pre-eminent art writers, and if it's anything like the first two, I can guarantee you some stimulating discussion and food for thought.<br /><br />See you out there-jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-47962162798570535282010-09-03T12:40:00.000-07:002010-09-03T12:54:48.175-07:00The Dear Mary or Jari Project-<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The Feminist Art Project- Oklahoma Chapter is thrilled to announce a collaborative art project, and we need <em>YOUR</em> help!<br /><br />From the <a href="http://www.mediafire.com/?txt3yi1bdiqf1pn">Call for Entries</a>:<br /><em>This election season, Oklahoma is poised to make history by electing either Mary<br />Fallin or Jari Askins as its first female governor. With this in mind, the Oklahoma<br />chapter of the Feminist Art Project is launching a participatory art project titled, The<br />‘Dear Mary or Jari’ Project.<br /><br />What do you hope will happen in Oklahoma in the next four years? Would you<br />like to speak up about issues that are important to you? Would you like to give a<br />message to our next governor? Here is your chance. The FAP is collecting letters<br />and handmade artwork addressed to Dear Mary or Jari, with the wishes, hopes, and<br />fears from Oklahoma women statewide. <strong>We would love your participation in this<br />project</strong>! </em></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><em><u>Purpose</u></em><br />• To celebrate the state of Oklahoma’s historical election between two female<br />candidates for Governor<br />• To provide an opportunity for Oklahoma’s female artists to convey their<br />thoughts, hopes, and desires to the first female Governor<br />• To stimulate discussion regarding the female voice in politics and the<br />culture of Oklahoma<br />• To encourage females throughout the state to vote in this election<br /><br /><em><u>Eligibility</u></em><br />Entries should be a “Visual Art Letter” to Oklahoma’s first female governor.<br />Therefore, all artists must work with the title of “Dear Mary or Jari.” Artists may<br />create their original visual art letter by utilizing mediums such as painting, drawing,<br />handwritten letters, fiber art, or any handmade work of art. Eligibility is restricted to<br />female Oklahomans who currently live in the state. Letters may contain poetry,<br />prose, persuasive essays, drawings, paintings, photography, or any media that can<br />be attached to or created on a piece of paper, canvas, or similar surface that is 15”<br />x 15” in size and on a stitchable material. Entries are not required to be signed.<br />Once collected, entries will be assembled into a collaborative work of art, and<br />copies of each entry will be bound and delivered to the winner of the gubernatorial<br />race. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em><u>Rules</u></em><br />1. Submissions limited to female Oklahomans living in the state.<br />2. Only one submission per individual.<br />3. The work must be 15” x 15” in size on a stitchable material. No exceptions<br />to dimensions will be permitted.<br />4. The thickness of the work must not exceed ½”.<br />5. Artwork will not be returned to the artist but will be gifted in the form of a<br />book to the winner of the gubernatorial race in November.<br />6. There are no fees to participate.<br />7. All mailing costs are the responsibility of the participant.<br />8. The Feminist Art Project Task Force members reserve the right to omit any<br />offensive or inappropriate entries.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><u><em>Deadline</em><br /></u>Entries will be received through <strong>Sunday, September 26th at 5:00pm</strong>. Submissions<br />received after this date will not be considered. An opening reception will be held<br />on Friday, October 1st from 6-10pm at a.k.a. gallery in the Paseo Arts District, 3001<br />Paseo, Oklahoma City. The exhibition will be on display at the a.k.a. gallery from<br />October 1–October 30, 2010. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">**Please pass this on as much as you like! The more participants, the better this will represent the voices of women in our state.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">woo-hoo!</span>jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-64384931846562053772010-08-27T09:02:00.000-07:002010-08-27T09:10:03.514-07:00What is Feminist Art?<em>Feminist art is not some tiny creek running off the great river of real art. It is not some crack in an otherwise flawless stone. It is, quite spectacularly I think, art which is not based on the subjugation of one half of the species. It is art which will take the great human themes --love, death, heroism, suffering, history itself --and render them fully human. It may also, though perhaps our imaginations are so mutilated now that we are incapable even of the ambition, introduce a new theme, one as great and as rich as those others --should we call it "joy"?.</em><br /><br />-Andrea Dworkin<br /><br />I found this quote and it was too long to tweet, but too good to forget.<br /><br />And I should note that the OK branch of the Feminist Art Project is interested in supporting <em>all</em> creative women in the state, not only those whose art is feminist in nature. If you know women who are artists in Oklahoma, let us know! We'd love to support them in any way we can.<br /><br />also...keep watching this space in the next few days for news of an exciting new collaborative art project.<br /><br />(hint hint- don't you hate cliffhangers?)jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-47225705130724230352010-08-25T12:06:00.001-07:002010-08-25T12:11:38.008-07:00Want to Learn More about OKFAP?Well, come on and meet us tomorrow at the Prohibition Room<br /><br />Learn about our goals, meet awesome creative women, and help us plan fun, feminist, arts events in OKC-<br /><br /><strong>Thursday, August 26</strong><br /><strong>6:00-9:30pm</strong><br /><strong>Prohibition Room</strong> (1112 NW 23rd St., Oklahoma City, OK- inside the gold dome at 23rd/ Classen)<br /><br />If you're on facebook, you can RSVP <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=147833851898753&index=1">here</a>.<br /><br />If not, just show up and hang out! See you there!jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-86921213642974079102009-09-01T20:15:00.000-07:002009-09-01T20:29:30.912-07:00See us at a Storyslam!Hey there!<br /><br />Just a quick note- the Feminist Art Project- Oklahoma Branch has its first event coming up. I hope we'll see you there!<br /><br />September 25, 7:00 pm<br /><a href="http://www.istvangallery.com/">Istvan Gallery</a> (12th/ Western)<br />Storyslam! Our theme will be "Life's a Bitch: Stories of life as a woman."<br /><br />(p.s. We think being a woman is pretty awesome, of course!)<br /><br />This Storyslam is going to be a fundraiser to help us get the word out about... well, our existence! We would love to print some business cards and enter a kickass float/group into the <a href="http://www.ghoulsgonewildokc.com/">Ghouls Gone Wild</a> parade on Oct. 24. You can help us get there, and have a great time at the Story Slam in the process!<br /><br />Entry to the slam will be $10 per person, or $5 if you are going to tell a story.<br /><br />Come on out, and tell your storytelling friends!jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-59447611145590477512009-08-05T13:02:00.000-07:002009-08-05T13:10:38.730-07:00interview: Jill Rumoshovsky Werner, curator of Modern Materials, The Art of the Quilt<span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Modern Materials, The Art of the Quilt</em> is currently on exhibit at [Artspace] at Untitled in Oklahoma City. This exhibition showcases the work of a broad spectrum of 24 art quilters, including two-dimensional and three-dimensional work, kinetic work. Some artists chose more traditional materials, and many worked with film, paint, moving parts, and other unexpected media. The resulting forms vary from elegant to challenging and even humorous. The show as a whole presents art quilting from all points on the spectrum, stretching viewers’ perceptions and expectations of quilting and quilts as art.<br /><br />The show’s curator, Jill Rumoshovsky Werner, is a nationally recognized award-winning art quilter and accomplished curator who co-founded the Kansas Art Quilters organization. While Werner is not an Oklahoma artist herself, this show brings world class, quality artwork by women to an Oklahoma City viewing audience, and two of the artists in the show live and work in Oklahoma.<br /><br />I had the chance to talk with Ms. Werner about the show.<br /><br /><em>JB: What initially drew you to this art form?</em><br /><br />JRW: I’m one of those who started out as a traditional quilter. When I was young, I wanted to be a scientist, an artist, and a singer like Edie Gorme. Well, Ms. Gorme doesn’t have anything to worry about, but I have accomplished all the rest. My first careers was as a scientist, in the field of audiology research. Later, I wrote technical manuals for NCR and worked for IBM as an engineer. For a time I thought I wanted to be a fashion designer but decided I didn’t really have the drive or passion for it. Art is actually my 4th career!<br /><br />I started making traditional quilts and quickly began teaching nationally. I reached a point where a lot of time was taken by doing sample projects to teach beginners. As I worked I found that I enjoyed pushing the envelope with each quilt piece I created, and this kind of work was not serving that purpose. So I entered the world of art quilting. In June of 1999, I took a giant leap of faith, and decided that I would no longer create traditional quilts, and would pursue quilting as an art form.<br /><br /><em>JB: You mention the difference between traditional quilts and art quilts, could you talk a little about those definitions in your own words?</em><br /><br />JRW: There are definitely gradations. It’s hard to choose absolute boundaries. But to start with, traditional quilts are primarily bedquilts or wall hangings. Art quilts can take on many different kinds of forms.<br /><br />Intent is a large part of the distinction- art quilters are pursing creation of quilts as an art form, bringing art forms into the process of quilt-making. Traditional quilters are very interested in technical aspects of quilting, and while art quilters certainly do focus on technique to an extent, we are not bound by the rules traditional quilters live by.<br /><br /><em>JB: Tell me a little about your process- how did you find the artists? Did contrast of styles/methods play a part in selecting the group?</em><br /><br />JRW: I knew a lot of them already, because I’m fortunate to get work accepted into top national shows. I go to important show openings, and a lot of other artists will too, and I’d be able to meet and talk with them there. So a lot of them I knew somewhat. Some extremely well.<br /><br />But even if I hadn’t met them, I’d seen their work. I chose the ones I did because they had really impressed me, and I am not easily impressed.<br /><br />When I was putting the show together, I started out with three-dimensional pieces. I got the idea a couple of years ago while at an art quilting conference, then I emailed a few other quilting artists about the possibility. Then, when this opportunity came up with [Artspace] at Untitled it was natural, I had a group to start with.<br /><br />But indeed, l wanted contrast—a real cross-section—wanted to show the depth of work that is being made in the art quilting community.<br /><br /><em>JB: You curated this show and also had work included: do you consider yourself primarily a curator, primarily an artist, or both?</em><br /><em></em><br />JRW: I was an art quilter first, but I was also one of the founders of a group called Kansas Art Quilters. I became president of the group and curated the first few exhibitions the group had. They were invitational- not juried or judged but did have to put them together, install and de-install work and travel the shows, whatever was needed.<br /><br />I knew that I would have no problem doing this from my IBM experience: I knew my biggest strength was organizing, knowing what needed to be done. And I’d been to so many openings that I knew what worked and what didn’t. I just knew what had to be done. To me, the whole process was a pleasure and it was easy.<br /><br /><em>JB: I noticed that many of your pieces in the show play with scale. Is this a particular interest in your art?</em><br /><em></em><br />JRW: Not necessarily. I do play with scale in those pieces, but it’s not a major motive. A lot of people have mentioned Claes Oldenburg when discussing those pieces; it was not necessarily my intention.<br /><br />My own artwork goes back to my work as a technical writer for NCR. When I started, they handed me an NCR dictionary. All of the words defined very narrowly, and only in relation to other words in that specific dictionary. It got me thinking about words, and about concepts that words represent. How do you convey a word without referring to other words that you have to know? I consider my work a form a visual dictionary.<br /><br />Some of the pieces do play with scale a lot, others have almost technological aspects. When I would go into manufacturing plants, I was exposed to a lot of processes and technology. I also have other pieces where there are just words. My sketchbook mostly consists of words. Words I want to remember. More the definition of the words and which words inspire me. I almost have several different thoughts within that, but if you see it all, it makes sense.<br />They don’t always look similar, in fact they look very different oftentimes; but again if you see them all together, you get it.<br /><br />I don’t really call myself a quilter- I consider myself more a conceptual artist. There is a term that’s gaining ground: conceptual craft- artists who are making fine art but using craft materials.<br /><br />Whatever material it takes to produce to what I want, that’s what I use. Pool noodles, toilet flanges, anything. And it can take any form: sometimes hung on walls, but sometimes those wall hangings creep onto the floor, sometimes free standing. Whatever it takes to define that particular word.<br /><br /><em>JB: Are there any artists in the show whose work you’d like to talk about? Perhaps the two from Oklahoma, Elia Woods and Jean Ann Fausser?</em><br /><em></em><br />JRW: Elia Woods-I love her work- she does slightly more traditional work; I absolutely loved her installation. I love that you can get inside it and walk around. It’s unlike any other piece in the show, and that was on purpose. I do want to say I chose her because she was good, she just happens to live in Oklahoma City.<br /><br />Jean Ann Fausser- the other Oklahoma artist in the show. I felt she fit in. My goal was to show a real wide range of cutting edge of quilt art work that is being done by quilters today, and I felt she fit in well.<br /><br /><em>JB: Is there anything else you’d like to comment on or add?</em><br /><em></em><br />JRW: Oklahoma City has a true gem in [Artspace] at Untitled- I hope people realize what a rarity it is to have a gallery with so much heart that shows art on such a high level of quality on a regular basis.<br /><br />We had one third of the artists come in for the opening weekend. One from California- the one who did the ferris wheel- said to me: You have completely blown my perceptions of Oklahoma City. She was extremely impressed with the gallery, with the people, with the commitment to the arts. She went home singing your praises.<br /><br /><em>Many thanks to Ms. Werner for curating this show,and for her time and thoughtful responses for this interview. Modern Materials will hang through August 29, 2009. [Artspace] at Untitled is located at 1 NE 3rd St. in Oklahoma City, and the gallery is open Tuesday through Friday, 10am- 6pm, and Saturday 10am-4pm. You can visit their site <a href="http://www.1ne3.org/">here</a> for more information.</em></span></span>jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3824684312314073506.post-75741327253344587962009-08-04T14:29:00.000-07:002009-08-05T13:11:01.168-07:00welcome to the blog!<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:130%;">Hey, everyone!<br /><br />Welcome to the brand-spankin' new blog of the Feminist Art Project, Oklahoma Chapter!<br /><br />As you can see, we are just getting off the ground, but we have lofty goals and are just crazy enough to pursue them. In a nutshell, we are here to: spotlight women artists living, working, or showing in Oklahoma, raise awareness of upcoming events featuring Oklahoma women artists, promote (statewide and national) opportunities for women artists in Oklahoma, and to have fun!<br /><br />Please visit the website of the national organization </span><a href="http://feministartproject.rutgers.edu/about/"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:130%;">here</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:130%;">.<br /><br />Some of the things you will see here include:<br />-interviews with artists<br />-reviews/previews of shows featuring OK women artists<br />-news about upcoming events<br />-a list of websites and blogs by/about OK women artists<br />-topics for discussion<br />-anything else we feel like! Keep checking back; we're going to have lots of fun!<br /><br />And while the committee is OKC based for now, we are taking this thing STATEWIDE, people! We want to hear from women artists from Broken Bow to Broken Arrow, and from Happyland to Slaughterville!<br /><br />Got an idea for us? Have a blog or website you'd like listed? Leave it in comments!<br /><br />Thanks for checking us out!</span>jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04005116462966167258noreply@blogger.com1