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"Group Dynamics"
Exhibition Dates: May 1 - 25, 2008
(Seattle, WA) Vetri International Glass is pleased to present Group Dynamics, a solo exhibition featuring new work by Seattle artist Karen Buhler. Well known for her whimsical flameworked glass sculptures, Buhler takes a slightly more introspective tone with this new body of work. She retains her characteristic sense of humor while examining the boundaries between individuals that form a group and exploring the group's influence on the individual.
The exhibition includes a selection of Buhler's Team Spirit series pieces: freestanding sculptures made up of a group of athletes seemingly merged into one being. The individuals are full of personality, defined by color, texture, pattern and gesture, yet they are part of a larger being - the team.
Also presented are a variety of wall-mounted shadowboxes which continue exploring the dynamic between the self and the multitude. Two of the works portray athletes remembering the advice of mentors who have inspired them throughout their lives.
One wall-mounted work stands notably apart from its companion pieces: a reproduction in glass of a Chagall print that was given to the artist by her grandmother, an artist and lifetime supporter of the arts in her hometown. "From an early age she declared me an artist,' says Buhler, 'and kept me supplied with paint, brushes and paper through adolescence." The Chagall print symbolizes the impact of her grandmother in her life, a concrete example of the effect of a group—the family—on an individual.
"My sculptural work is figurative and reflects the world around me," says Buhler. Her influences are varied, and include Roman and Greek art and mythology, Art Nouveau, Art Deco figurines and pre-Columbian pottery. People-watching in Seattle, especially athletes and their fans, also provides stimulus and inspiration. "As I strive for aesthetic appeal and classical elegance, I can't help but inject a little of the playfulness, fun and the joy of the human experience."
Karen Buhler studied ceramic art, glass and architecture at Ohio State University. She worked with hot glass for several years before commencing a study of flameworking at Pratt Fine Arts Center in 1998. She has since served as a teaching assistant to James Minson and Sally Prasch, and taught courses at Pratt Fine Arts Center, Pittsburgh Glass Center and Pilchuck Glass School. Her work has been included in exhibitions and publications throughout the United States.
Karen Buhler's "Group Dynamics" will be on display through May 26th, 2008.
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