Pittsburgh’s Contemporary Craft gallery is currently hosting “Transformation 12: Contemporary Works in Wood,” a biennial juried show that’s less about rustic charm and more about a surprisingly cutting-edge interrogation of form and material. It’s a reminder that craft isn’t simply about quaint hobbyism; it’s a legitimate space for artistic innovation, and increasingly, a space for artists to wrestle with complex themes.
- The exhibition features 19 artists, including international contributors, showcasing the global reach of contemporary wood art.
- Several pieces directly address themes of decay, restraint, and even violence, moving beyond purely aesthetic concerns.
- The inclusion of video documentation, like Vivian Chiu’s process for “Revolving Vase (9 Peaches),” highlights the performative aspect of craft and demystifies the artistic process.
What’s particularly interesting here isn’t just *what* is being made, but *how* it’s being presented. Michael Ferris’ “Rosemarie with Stretchy” – a large-scale bust with a wooden cat on a wooden sweater – feels deliberately playful, a softening tactic perhaps to draw viewers into the more challenging works nearby. This juxtaposition is key. Immediately following, you encounter James Maurelle’s “Pou Sen Suzanne,” a throne constructed with “wood, adhesive, blood, soil.” The stark contrast isn’t accidental; it’s a curatorial statement about the spectrum of human experience, and the potential for both comfort and brutality within the same medium.
The exhibition smartly plays with pairings. Adam John Manley’s deconstructed rocking chair, presented alongside a photograph of its complete form, is a meta-commentary on design and functionality. It’s a knowing wink to the audience, acknowledging the inherent artifice of even the most everyday objects. Similarly, the placement of Sylvie Richardson’s massive triceratops head, “Salome,” across from Rex Kalehoff’s “Lion Rex” creates a fascinating dialogue between prehistoric power and regal symbolism.
Contemporary Craft’s decision to showcase the *process* behind the art, through the video of Vivian Chiu’s work, is a smart PR move. In an era where authenticity is prized, demystifying the creation process builds trust and appreciation. It’s a subtle but effective way to counter the perception of art as inaccessible or elitist. “Transformation 12” isn’t just displaying finished products; it’s offering a glimpse behind the curtain, revealing the labor, skill, and conceptual thinking that goes into each piece. The exhibition continues through January 17th, and it’s a strong signal that Contemporary Craft is positioning itself as a vital incubator for innovative and thought-provoking art.
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