What: Utopia to Paradise?
Who: Anna VA Polesny, MS, MFA
Where: Historic Northampton. 46 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA
When: Two More Weeks! Open Until, October 9, 2016
Closing Reception: October 9, five to seven PM-please contact annabartoli@crocker.com
Anna VA Polesny MS, MFA:
Utopia to Paradise?
Skins of animals have been useful to humankind throughout history. In the Pioneer Valley the indigenous native Pocomtuc tribe used skins for clothing, shelter, spiritual and ceremonial objects. Colonists settling in the region, brought new materials, new constructions, techniques and decorations resulting in the blending of the old Native American world and a fusion of local natural materials with European technology, materials and design.
As part of an ongoing evolution for all, individuals and societies, we continue to be exposed to and influenced by other cultures, styles, ideas, ways of living and newly created materials.
Anna VA Polesny’s artistic expressions examine the possibilities of blending old with discovery and creation of new in the exploration of a variety of leather working techniques, coupled with miniature locally found objects and decorative materials. Through art garments and wall hangings the continuing story of Northampton as influenced by geography and history is told.
Polesny has devoted a lifetime to art creation, education, and advocacy. She has exhibited her work nationally and internationally and been recognized with grants and awards from the National Endowment and New York State Arts Councils, and the Massachusetts Cultural Council among others. In March to September of 2017 her work will be exhibited at the Museum of Art and Design in New York City in a traveling exhibition called Counter Couture, Establishing Identity In the Counter Culture.
