A diverse selection of artwork, from porcelain and ceramic sculptures to drawings to glass pieces by talented local artists is now on display at the San Luis Obispo Art Center and will be there until Jan. 13, 2008.
“We’re delighted to have these 14 artists represent the art of fine crafts,” said Karen Kyle, the center’s executive director.
The featured artists are all local, and some are nationally or internationally regarded.
At the entrance of the exhibit is a breathtaking ceramic piece by Guyla Amyx. The work, titled “Does Balance Bring Wisdom?” includes a raven perched on the head of a figure amidst dull orange flames.
Also near the front of the exhibit is Marcia Kocka’s featured work, which includes an abstract sculpture of busy black and white zigzag patterns titled “Caffeine High.”
Hung on the wall are three brightly colored pieces of mosaic tile – one with a mirror in the center and two expressing religious meaning through crosses – by Susanne Baca, who has worked with santo for years.
Donald Frith created two medium-size glass pieces of deep purples and blues that resemble teapots, titled “Teapot #706” and “Teapot #709.” The dainty crafts have solid glass handles and well-blended color that indicate their high quality.
Next to the teapots is an elaborate and impressive piece by Xandra Shaw called “Hints of Asia,” which includes beautiful and colorful flowers, and shapes made of fiber, paper and beads that stretch several feet down the wall.
Two ceramic wavelike sculptures, titled “Overture” and “XTRx3,” are displayed in the center of the room on stands. The creator of the ridged works is William Shinn, an internationally recognized artist.
In his San Francisco studio, Alexander Abajian made small ribbon cane-glass canoes and emphasized that art takes them “where the currents may take them.”
Priscilla Beadle fashioned three fantastic pieces of jewelry hung side by side that were made from a variety of materials, including turquoise and silver, clay and “recycled junk.”
In glass cases are two delicate paper bowl-shaped creations by Beryl Reichenberg that impart a peaceful, natural air with their woven detail.
“Delphiniums and Daisies” by Jackie Bradley is hung in the far corner attracting attention with its subtle color and great detail in the flowers.
Sandra Key Johnson has two of her pieces featured in the exhibit, including “Reflections,” a framed work of dyes on a silk collage, and “Home Sweet Home Trombone,” a whimsical structure including a potted plant with the branches woven about a trombone.
“It’s great to have her work here; it’s been so long,” Kyle said about Johnson’s work. “Her pieces are so whimsical and yet so fine.”
The San Luis Obispo Art Center is located at 1010 Broad St.