Family Ties touches on the multi-layered bonds that connect our given and adopted family members, friends, and community. These bonds are manifested in traditions, shared history, common spaces, and elements of identity encompassing everything from the rituals and patterns of styling hair, the particulars of gathering places for meals, and the textures and shades that mark bodies. Being connected to family is essential for unity, health and well-being, especially during a time when those connections have been obstructed by world and life circumstances. Family does also include those we live in tension with. Ties can draw things in but also prevent them from drifting too far apart. In spite of distance, pain, conflict, and other differences, family ties are a reminder of commitment and the persistence of connection even in hard times and through complicated realities.
Despite Vessel Portrait III’s modest size, the piece is striking. The warm, chartreuse glaze complements its varied texture that represents diversity and strength of Black bodies.
Hair patterns adorn this stoneware piece that stands sentinel to a family tradition of working together. Spiraled twists, Bantu knots and box braid details escape the glossy tower providing dimensional interest.
As most of this exhibition’s work is created in muted, earthy tones, Patrick Quarm’s vibrant paintings explode off the walls in stark contrast. He weaves his family story through layered unstretched canvases, African fabric patterns, airy abstractions and symbols.
The ceramic portrait of Ebitenyefa Baralaye’s niece allows the coil technique to reveal under the subject’s hair and features. Baralaye uses different clays and glazes in each of his portraits. It takes a skilled and experienced sculptor who can anticipate the piece will come out of the kiln with the desired results.
Whether tightknit or estranged, we are all shaped by our family. Ancestral genetic coding is embedded in who we are. The four artists featured in this exhibition express very personal interpretations of themselves and their relationship with their families as well as the larger world.
On view through August 6th at David Klein Gallery 1520 Washington Blvd Detroit
*images are mine
direct quote from curator’s statement
**a note of condolence regarding the permanent closing of the Cass Café this Sunday. This eatery served up deliciousness for both the tastebuds and the mind for almost 30 years. An ardent supporter of local visual arts, this beloved hangout will be sorely missed.
SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND