Commotion

The Museum of Industry proudly presents the travelling exhibit Commotion, a juried exhibition of art pieces by the Atlantic members of the Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA).  The organizers are Hélène Blanchet and Regina Marzlin. The show consists of 27 textile art pieces made by 16 artists. 

About the Show, from the exhibition catalogue 

The “Commotion” exhibition invites viewers to enjoy a diversity of pieces with an interesting and unusual use of fabric in the broadest sense. The contemporary textile art pieces interpret the theme “Commotion” in a wide range of styles and techniques; from abstract to pictorial, from monochromatic to colorful. The masterful use of luscious texture, sophisticated colour and clever manipulation through fabric surface design are just a few of the defining elements of a fascinating medium that is increasingly popular and becoming more and more accepted by the general art world.

The show was juried by Lee Cripps, the current curator and artistic director of the Craig Gallery in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.  Lee commented about her jurying decisions: “I tried to create a diversity of colour, skill and artistic expression in relation to the theme.  What a touch choice!! There were such great submissions.  I did enjoy the pieces that I felt expressed a great sense of energy and which evoked a strong emotional response.”   

Exhibition concept

“In these turbulent times, many of us are reeling from the commotion that surrounds us - be it political, environmental, or personal. The artist it might evoke a riot of colour, textures, or forms. Commotion can be noise, mayhem and upheaval, but it can also be children’s vitality that brings joy, the hurly-burly of a busy city street or even the clamor of a symphony getting ready to play.

What does the idea of “Commotion” mean to you? Is it loud and overwhelming? Pandemonium or turmoil? Or exciting, lively, and full of unexpected delights? Show us how you react to the idea of commotion.”