The Elverhoj Museum of History and Art currently showcases a fantastic exhibit of fine art in geometric expressions of colorful imagination. Some bridge the gap between abstract and representational with some programmatic titles, like Kristin Otte’s piece titled Tokyo Train Ride, which blends colorful shapes over a drab gray background that appears to be newsprint.
Other artists go hard on the representational work, creating what could be described as a fabric painting. Linda Estrada’s Jester piece is an impressive example of the detail an accomplished textile artist can achieve. The character is fully realized with stunning detail, and even casts a shadow on the background of the scene.Â
Isabel Downs also flirts with representation, but in a much more playful way. Her piece Hidden Architecture Paper Wasp’s Nest is a long black vertical rectangle with four different representations of a wasp’s nest—from the full hive and then zooming all the way into an innermost chamber. Each section includes a marvel of detail, with the closest representation eliciting a sense of the cavernous combs of the hive.
Other artists are certainly getting some inspiration from the natural world as well. Diana Acevedo’s Santa Barbara Shale clearly represents layers of sedimentary stone in light and dark browns. There are two panoramic pieces that showcase panels of the four seasons, signified with trees.Â
The numerous techniques that went into the show explain the incredible detail and diversity of the work. The artists dyed, painted, laminated, screen printed, stamped, monoprinted, discharged, collaged, fused, embroidered, stitched, and even programmed LED lights to achieve their visions.Â
Some of the materials used were repurposed—like the LED lights and microchips and even old sheet music. The many fabrics used include cotton, polyester, organza, silk, taffeta, tulle, and sateen. Holding these together are different kinds of threads, from the common to the exotic. Completely odd yet synergistic additions were materials like tea bags or cheesecloth, discharge paste and canvas.
Anyone who fancies themself a quilter or knitter will have a fantastic time perusing Layers of Perception. Most of the pieces are for sale—many are already sold—but there is also a small boutique in the corner, which includes items created by the artists, which visitors can buy that day. There are bags, coasters, purses, scarves, tablet rests, and other one-of-a-kind works. Most have already been purchased, but there is still plenty of time to view the show and buy a small keepsake. Layers of Perception shows through Feb. 5 in the Elverhoj’s gallery space.Â
Arts Editor Joe Payne has a new appreciation for quilting, embroidery, and other textile techniques. Contact him at jpayne@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Dec 15-22, 2016.
