Harrison Council for the Arts presents “Aesthetics & Whimsy,” a mixed media and collage exhibit by Heidi Lewis Coleman at the Harrison Public Library located in the Halperin Building at 2 Bruce Ave., Harrison, New York on view until July 28.
Artist statement:
“My work reflects an ongoing exploration into the aesthetics of using language in art. While most conceptual artists incorporate text into their work as a means of analyzing popular culture or for making political and social commentary, I am more intrigued with developing text as a visual design element. I am particularly inspired by Asian art and have studied the intricate calligraphy used to decorate ancient scrolls and screens. The columns of simple, yet elegant characters may express specific meanings, but a viewer is not required to understand that meaning in order to appreciate the grace and integrity of the artwork.
I create mixed media pieces and steel sculptures which incorporate my own stylized abstract writing. Originally, my invented languages were painted on paper, cut out and then applied to a painted canvas. As the work has evolved, I’ve continued to develop new characters by deconstructing and reconstructing my original text, creating languages which are visually richer and more complex. More recently, I have extended this process by incorporating “Mandalas” into my art, circular forms which were originally used by the Hindus and Buddhists as focal points for meditation.
For me, the languages have an ancient, almost mystical quality. I believe that because my artwork communicates in the abstract, individual viewers are not forced to translate it specifically, allowing them to connect with the energy of each piece in ways that are personal and unique.”
Coleman is an award-winning artist who has had her work exhibited extensively and whose art can be found in many private collections. She studied at Parsons School of Art and Design and the New York School of Design where she received her associates degree with the highest honors. Coleman received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington.
The exhibit may be viewed Mondays and Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9:30 a.m. to noon. For info call the library at 835-0324 or visit Harrisonpl.org.
