In the Gallery

Color Ways featuring Astrid Bennett

9/1/23-9/27/23

To me, successful art works in any medium are a balance of complex forms. Although visually abstract, my work is profoundly influenced by the natural world. In daily life, I practice active listening and observation. So, while my work does not tell stories, it is a reflection of deeply immersive observations and preverbal experience. I am committed to sustainability and social justice issues as well as mentoring and giving back. When possible, I create work that has a dual purpose as both wall and functional art.

Artist Statement

I use only my own handpainted, monoprinted fabrics in my work. I love the drag of a brush on fabric. A large-scale, exuberant canvas is thrilling. My recent works often add ink drawing to the mix. I juxtapose active forms with quiet, inward ones, motion with stillness. In music, the silence between notes is just as important as the notes themselves.

As a musician, painting and printing fabrics is like playing an instrument or improvising, with an immediacy and dialog with process. Composers and musicians such as Shostakovich and the Silk Road Ensemble enable me to inhabit color.

Recently, I have paired my Tarps and Scrolls with natural phenomena, using photography in short-term installations.

Trained as a printmaker, my interest in fiber art and “making things” began in childhood. I have a family heritage in music and printmaking as well as business. I received my BFA in printmaking from Indiana University and have exhibited and taught at various locations throughout the country and abroad. I’ve also been a cultural and small business advocate, having served as longtime manager, marketing director & co-owner of Iowa Artisans Gallery in Iowa City. I also currently serve as President of the international textile nonprofit, Surface Design Association.


Up Next:

Tim Van Ginkel

Exhibition ::  10/5/23-10/28/23


Mini Gallery

A smaller, more intimate extension of our Main Gallery showcasing local, emerging artists.

Great River Pottery Throwdown Artists

8/3/23-8/29/23

Check out the artwork of the six artists who competed in the Great River Pottery Throwdown on 7/29/23.

 

2023 Artists:

Linda Ross

Lillian Rubin

Linda Sickmon

Ryan Smith

Detrich Totemeier

Jessi Tucci


Two opportunities for artists

Be a part of this tiny show with your 2D+3D art in any medium, students are encouraged to participate too!

  • Artwork cannot exceed 12 inches in any direction including the frame.
  • Pay a $15 entry fee for up to 3 pieces that goes towards prizes and awards! 
  • Submit artwork & application by Wednesday, October 25, 2023.

The annual All Member Show concludes our calendar year in our Gallery.

  • Any current member can submit up 1-2 pieces for our Annual and popular All Member Show.
  • Not a member? Sign up today or renew your membership and you can still be a part of this exhibition!
  • Submit artwork & application by Saturday, November 18, 2023.

2023 Gallery Schedule

Get the kids involved with our Gallery Scavenger Hunt!

Giving kids an appreciation for art encourages exploration, self expression, logical thinking, self-esteem, imagination, and creativity. We’ve made up a fun little scavenger hunt for your family to do together at the Art Center! Just stop by the front desk anytime for the scavenger hunt. 

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Tues - Thurs: 10am - 6pm
Friday/Saturday: 10am - 4pm

301 Jefferson Street
Burlington, Iowa 52601
319-754-8069

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