The New England Quilt Museum in Lowell, Massachusetts, is showcasing three vibrant exhibitions that celebrate the beauty of autumn. Running until December 31, 2023, the exhibits titled “A Walk in the Woods,” “To Every Season,” and “The Spirit Books” offer an immersive experience into the artistic interpretations of the season. Curated by Pamela Weeks, the exhibitions feature a selection of 20 works from eight distinguished American quilt artists, providing a rich tapestry of creative expression.
“A Walk in the Woods” serves as a poignant reminder of nature’s restorative power. The exhibit not only highlights the artists’ unique perspectives but also invites viewers to engage with the natural world through textiles. Salley Mavor and Susan Kapuscinski Gaylord, both renowned artists, have their works prominently displayed in neighboring galleries, enhancing the thematic connection among the exhibitions.
The “To Every Season” exhibit focuses on Mavor’s intricate bas-relief embroideries, showcasing a diverse array of seasonal landscapes. This section includes both early works on loan from private collections and recent pieces, such as her celebrated Four Seasons series. Visitors to this exhibit can expect to be enveloped in a miniature world, crafted from hand-stitched fabric, beads, wire, and various found objects.
Susan Kapuscinski Gaylord’s exhibition, “The Spirit Books,” invites a meditative engagement with her art. Known for her handmade books and calligraphy, Gaylord’s latest works encourage viewers to slow down and reflect on the fragile relationship between humanity and nature. “The Spirit Books remind us of what is at stake in today’s world. Acknowledging the strength and the fragility of nature, they are both celebration and reflection,” Gaylord explains.
For more information on visiting hours and admission, interested individuals can visit the museum’s official website at www.neqm.org.
Community Celebrations and Upcoming Events
In other local art news, Western Avenue Studios (WAS) is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Located in a historic mill complex, WAS is home to nearly 400 artists and makers across various mediums, including painting, ceramics, and glasswork. This vibrant community significantly contributes to the region’s creative economy, with many artists also residing on-site.
To mark this milestone, WAS will host its inaugural fundraiser, Luminosity, on November 12, 2023, from 18:00 to 21:00. The event promises an evening filled with art, music, food, and auctions, all aimed at supporting the mission to provide affordable and safe working spaces for artists. Tickets are priced at $80 and can be purchased through their fundraising page.
Additionally, ArtSpace Maynard is preparing for its “Small Works Holiday Show,” which runs from November 14, 2023, to January 10, 2024. This exhibition will feature an array of affordable, small-scale artworks by local and regional artists, making it a perfect venue for holiday gifting or beginning a new art collection. The show will include a variety of media, from paintings and prints to textiles and mixed media.
For those interested in participating in the Small Works Holiday Show, application details can be found on their website.
Art enthusiasts and community members are encouraged to explore these artistic venues, as they reflect the creativity and spirit of the region.
