Two new group exhibitions open Friday at the R2 Gallery in Carbondale. They use different mediums to combine visual art and words.
In "Art for Change," five female artists tackle the theme of political and personal transition.
Local fiber artist Jill Scher curated the show. She said she wanted it to have a positive tone, so she asked the artists to base their work on an inspirational quote. The artists chose messages from leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., and Gandhi.
Scher said that the quotes give the show a contemplative feel. “The fact that you can read what inspired the piece is thought-provoking, but it also helps you understand where it was coming from.”
The show includes a diverse range of two and three-dimensional pieces in a variety of mediums, including fiber, glass, wax and paint.
A second group exhibition, "Narrative Threads" showcases something called artists’ books. The books are crafted with fibers, visible threads and paint. And anyone who’s ever gone to a museum and wanted to touch the art now has their chance. Most artists' books are meant to be handled.
Alicia Bailey of Abecedarian Artists’ Books curated the exhibit. She said that artists’ books challenge people to take their time and appreciate small details.
“I think part of the magic of it is the same content is available to anyone, but it is only available to someone who is willing to take the time to dig it out.”
Both exhibits open at 6 p.m.
