There has always been a very distinct line between fine art and what can be considered fine craft. On rare occasions these lines blur and ultimately blend into an entirely new classification.
This summer we are fortunate to have an excellent example: “Earth Gowns: Earth, Air, Fire, Water,” a stunning exhibition at Studios on the Park in downtown Paso Robles.
Disregard any preconceived notions you may have that clothing—or better yet, fashion—can’t transcend into the realm of fine art. This is quite simply one of the most exceptional and exciting art exhibits that you’ll be able to enjoy this summer.
The collection of 25 garments was created by 14 textile artists. Each piece incorporates not only an extensive variety of textiles, delicate hand stitching, various dyeing techniques and recycled materials, but also numerous items found in nature such as seeds, seashells, seaweed, paper and almost anything else imaginable.
Each garment exudes energy from Earth, Air, Fire or Water.
These lovingly crafted garments allow each artist to delve into her own private fantasies, and share her imagination, vision, messages, poetry and unique perspective of what life can look like when the rules are ignored and self-expression is given free reign.
While walking through the main gallery I found myself trying to choose which garment I liked the best. This became an impossible task given that each artist brings her own sensitivity to nature and color pallet to her creation.
Kelp Queen, designed by Leticia Perez Grover and fastidiously created from Morro Bay kelp, is breathtaking. In my opinion this was not a Queen, but an Ocean Goddess.
Meg Johnson’s Fire Spirit, in dramatic reds and pinks, expresses the passion and creative power of women artists. It was inspired by Frida Kahlo.
Pandora by Stacy Williams came to life from a thrift shop dress, appliqued recycled fabric scraps, extensive hand stitching, and tree branches. It is a study in perfection comparing society’s destructive versus creative impulses.
Mary Wood envisioned From the Sea, demonstrating what ocean water might look like if it morphed into human form, with luscious colors of ocean blues and greens and incorporating seashells and preserved kelp as jewels.
Other artists include Jennifer Blue, Laurel Carlisle, Liz Cordoba, Melinda Forbes and Julie Frankel, Kathleen Friend, Susan Lara, Marylu Weaver Meagher, Carolyn Smith, and Janice Strakbein.
Each is to be commended for bringing a joyful, colorful, exciting and insightful exhibit to the Central Coast. Full disclosure: I am a practicing textile artist, and for many years was also an associate artist at Studios on the Park. But you must experience this one for yourself. The show runs through August 31.