April 26, 2007
White Walls
Friday night is the second SIUE MFA show at Mad Art Gallery—and should be another stellar night of art. Sculptor Sarah Frost, who also has a part-time gig as graphic designer for Schlafly, will present her thesis exhibition. Her current work examines our culture through the collection of its remains, such as consumer objects and discarded packaging. She presents or reconstructs these items in a context or material that alters their significance.
Last fall I saw a version of her “White Walls” at the SIUE student gallery. From far away it reminded me of a Louise Nevelson piece—a study of white objects piled high and wide. But Sarah’s piece had more nuances in color and culture—examining common modern day objects that have been cast off as junk. Maybe if Nevelson were a bag-lady…
She is re-creating the installation on the Mad Art stage and I’m eager to see this and her other works. What I appreciate about much of Sarah’s work is that it engages on so many levels. I think making good art about relevant social topics is very difficult and Sarah manages to present smart and thoughtful work that isn’t condescending. Art that tries to beat a message into my head is offensive in its non-subtly. She can pull off irony without being too cheeky. She really manages to balance message and method in a delightful way. (More of Sarah's work.)
Showing with Sarah will be printmaker Angela Malchionno. Her work incorporates printmaking and drawing into sculptural environments that often invite viewer participation. The prints I saw in the fall were gorgeous and I think they are going to look fantastic in the space.
When: Friday, April 27, 2007
Time: 7-11pm
Location: Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12th Street, STL MO 63118