Selected Works by Allied Craftsmen
Material Matters showcases work by 23 members of Allied Craftsmen, a juried organization founded over 50 years ago comprised of nationally and internationally recognized artists currently living and working in the San Diego area. Their multimedia work is presented as immersive installations engulfing the viewer in a visceral experience of both material and object. MORE
Each artist pursues their inspiration through innovative process and unconventional design using materials such as wood, clay, wire, fabric, metal, gold and silver.
The artworks in Material Matters reference a variety of sculptural, decorative, conceptual and functional concerns, demonstrating the array of ideas that can be communicated through artistic means. Some artists such as Jeff Irwin address the relationship between mankind and nature while artists such as Cheryl Nickel focus on the role of religion and science in contemporary society. Others such as Ellen Phillips and Wendy Maruyama have created work specific to personal histories relating to the interment camps in WWII whereas artists such as Todd Partridge, Paul Henry and Jennifer Anderson create intelligent artwork that walks the fine line between form and function.
Regardless of the variety in aesthetic style and source of inspiration all members of Allied Craftsmen are skilled artisans and designers who excel at communicating experiences, concerns and ideas through tangible form. The collection of artworks installed for this exhibition serve as testaments to the creative minds and capabilities existing within the San Diego art community giving these local artists a platform to demonstrate their artistic talents in an engaging display of both material concerns and immaterial matters.
