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Gallery

WInter Schedule at the Lynn Tendler Bignell Gallery

Annual Holiday Sale Exhibition

November 1 – December 31
Colorful Glass Turtle

Each year holiday shoppers from across the region make an annual pilgrimage to find unique handmade gifts of lasting value made by American artisans exclusively displayed on three floors of our charming (circa 1780) restored grist mill building which overlooks the Still River at Halfway Falls. This 33rd annual event is dedicated to supporting craft artists and our education programs and to presenting the work of more than 400 artisans. The event has grown to become one of the largest and longest running retail exhibitions of handmade American craftwork in the Northeast. It is the ultimate “un-mall” atmosphere – one of the friendliest, enjoyable and rewarding shopping experiences you will find. Shoppers and collectors bring friends & family and often spend the whole day exploring the impressive collection of unique handcrafted gift items on display. From pottery to jewelry, from woodworking to blown glass, we have it all, including ornaments and functional & decorative artwork for the home and wearable art for the body. Shoppers will not only acquire distinctive and affordable gifts; but they will also be providing important income for the participating artists and they will be supporting our programs which promote and preserve the skills and values of fine craftsmanship.

Sacred Containments: A Show of Vessels, Nests and Shelters

February 1- March 8, 2009 • Curated by Miani Carnevale
Earthtone Sculpture

Spirit House
by Barbara Allen

Vessels, Nests and Shelters can carry, hold, enclose, embrace, cradle, shelter and protect. Using both earthborn and contemporary materials, the artisans represented in this exhibit have taken the ancient craft of basketry to create 21st century art forms intended to elevate, celebrate and make sacred, the vessel form. Each artist has also included a personal narrative about their sacred containers to create additional depth, texture and intimacy. May the beauty of the work move, inspire and enfold you. Participating artists include: Barbara Allen, Corey Anderson, Nancy Moore Bess, Miani Carnevale, Valarie Dearing, Helen Dunkerley, Suzy Goodelman, Pat Hickman, Kristin Muller, Jo Stealey, Missy Stevens, Teresa Genovese, Tommy Simpson. The inspiration for Sacred Containments originated from my love of and passion for the vessel form. In my experience all life is either holding or being held; inextricably linked, connected, entwined.

Opening Reception: Sunday, February 1 from 2:00-4:00pm; Curator presentation 3:00pm

 

Out of the Loop: Innovations in Hooking

March 22-May 3, 2009 • Curated by Liz Alpert Fay
Colorful Fiber Vessel

Jester Bowl by Molly Colegrove

Traditional Rug Hooking is one of America’s few indigenous art forms. It began with the early settlers who warmed their floors by utilizing worn clothing and other fabric scraps in the making of rugs. Today, this once utilitarian art form is experiencing a resurgence of interest, and contemporary artists are employing it purely as a means of self- expression. Many variations on the original hooking technique are now in use, and a host of unconventional materials can be seen in this experimental new work. Guest curator Liz Alpert Fay, an instructor at Brookfield Craft Center, and an artist working in this medium, has selected thirteen artists to participate in the exhibit. Each has previously shown their work in the annual juried category at the Newtown Hooked Rug Show, entitled Pushing the Limits: New Concepts in Rug Hooking. These artists have created unique works of art by redefining the art form through their innovative use of alternative materials and sculptural forms. Participating artists are; Mary Jane Andreozzi, Marilyn Bottjer, Molly Colegrove, Linda Rae Coughlin, Liz Alpert Fay, Susan Feller, Glenda Guinn-Gilles, Tracy Jamar, Beth Kempf, Lara Magruder, Constance Old, Alice Rudell, Missy Stevens. Although the work created by these artists varies widely, all pieces in the exhibit contain some type of rug hooking technique. These phenomenal artists have created a show that really is Out of the Loop!

Opening Reception: Sunday, March 22 from 2:00-4:00pm; Curator presentation 3:00pm

 

CT Commission on Culture and TourismThese exhibitions are made possible by The Lynn Tendler Bignell Foundation and the CT Commission on Culture and Tourism.