I can handle it
 Currently
on view at Green Lantern Studios, (261 High Street, Mineral Point -
608-987-2880) is an exhibition called "I can handle it!"
This show and sale of handmade handbags features the work of regional
artists. A variety of traditional media (yarn, wire, beads, fabrics)
as well as some unlikely materials are crafted with a plethora of
techniques. The resulting handbags presented range from colorful to
subdued, from very large to very small, from functional to decorative
to conceptual. Gallery owner Richard Moninski says: "This show is
a great example of the richness of our area's contemporary artisans.
They're working in the exciting place where fine art meets fine
craft".
Kim Barham is showing a leather pouch with copious fringe, while
Roberta Barham is well represented by a large number of machine knit
and felted pieces as well as two tiny beaded pouches on decorative
strings, which can only be described as necklaces. Denise Benoit's
hand woven covers are in lovely woodland hues and engaging textures.
Peg Cullen's small, highly decorative items appear delicate and airy,
with the inclusion of many special beads. The color range of Lavonne
Erickson's felted pieces range from brilliant to elegant. Nancee
Killoran is showing a sculptural piece created from hand made paper,
and Kriss Marion has used recycled sweaters and added needlefelted
wool appliqué in energetic floral patterns. A political statement in
bamboo was contributed by Ron Niemann. Lyric Ozburn is presenting
"found" handbags paired with gestural acrylic paintings of
them. Also on view are delightful works by Rochelle Gorgen, Christine
Hulet and Sally Niemann.
The "I can handle it!" exhibit will remain on view
through April 27th.
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