September Brings A Quartet of Exhibitions to Asheville’s Blue Spiral 1
Asheville’s Blue Spiral 1 promises to become a hub of artistic flair as it gears up to introduce four new exhibitions this September. Set to debut on Friday, September 6, with an opening reception scheduled from 5–7 p.m., the four exhibitions promise to captivate the Asheville community with their diverse and innovative artistic themes.
Common Thread: A Celebration of Fiber Art
In the Main Level Gallery, the exhibit Common Thread will feature the work of 20 artists unified by the medium of fiber. The fiber artists employ traditional techniques such as weaving, quilting, and embroidery while some push the boundaries of the medium, incorporating basketry and sculpture. Casey Engel, one of the participating artists, describes her quilt-making process as a blend of painting, drawing, and sculpting. The exhibition is seen by Engel as an attractive showcase that she would “travel to see.”
Portraits: An Exploration of Subject Matter
The Lower Level Gallery will host Portraits, which unites artists through their focus on portraiture. The exhibition features the work of 16 artists who build upon the deep-rooted tradition of portraiture art, featuring everything from traditional renditions to contemporary interpretations. Through this exhibition, viewers can explore each artist’s unique approach and engage with the diverse outcomes on display.
Vicki Essig: Quietude and the Art of Silk Weaving
In the Small Format Gallery, an exhibit showcasing the work of Vicki Essig, a silk weaver known for her intimate relationship with nature, will mesmerize viewers. Essig, who grows and harvests silkworms for her material, seamlessly integrates natural elements, such as branches and petals, into her creations.
Andréa Keys Connell and Duy Huynh: Narrative Inspiration
The Showcase Gallery presents the combined exhibits of ceramist Andréa Keys Connell and painter Duy Huynh. Both artists are fascinated by narratives, using them to explore how stories and meanings can resonate collectively. Connell focuses on figurines and monuments as a language to explore themes such as motherhood and joy. Huynh, a non-native English speaker, delves into the complexity of language, incorporating symbols, puns, and metaphors into his work.
Each of these exhibitions, underlined by seemingly simple themes such as medium, subject matter, and inspiration, allows visitors to interact with familiar concepts while exploring fresh interpretations by the artists.
Plan Your Visit
Blue Spiral 1’s new exhibitions, located at 38 Biltmore Avenue in downtown Asheville, promise a multifaceted experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. For further details, visit the Blue Spiral 1 website or contact them at 828.251.0202.
