Mimic: Modern Marbled Objects
MCBA Main Gallery
On view August 9 – October 13, 2019
Reception: Thursday, October 3; 6-8pm, Artist Talk 7pm in the target performance hall at open book
Free and open to the public
Mimic examines the history and craft of marbling, from book arts origins to present day sculpture, fine art, and other decorative objects. The exhibition includes twenty local and international artists:
- Sue Bjerke
- Maisie Broome
- Antonio Velez Celemin
- Heather RJ Fletcher
- Karli Frigge
- Mary Holland
- Dan and Regina St. John
- Jemma Lewis
- Diane Maurer-Mathison
- Iris Nevins
- Sheryl Oppenheim
- Stephen Pittelkow
- Sally Power
- Jana Pullman
- Christin Ripley
- Barb Skoog
- Natalie Stopka
- Sevim Surucu
- Robert Wu
Visiting masters of marbling Regina and Dan St. John of Chena River Marblers will give an artist talk at the Mimic closing reception on October 3, and MCBA will host a series of master marbling workshops led by Regina and Dan this fall. Based in Massachusetts, Regina and Dan specialize in book edge-marbling, miniature marbling, custom marbled papers, and teaching marbling workshops around the country.
Dating back to the 12th century in Japan and 15th century in Turkey, the art of marbling involves floating paint on water mixed viscous with carrageenan, a seaweed extract; creating intricate patterns and designs using unusual, handmade tools; and then laying paper, fabric, wood, or other porous materials onto the surface of the bath, where the image is immediately and permanently transferred to the desired surface.
Connecting the local community to national masters of the form, MCBA’s marbled-themed exhibition and educational programs engage, inspire, and focus attention on contemporary applications of this vibrant traditional craft.