We are featuring three displays in February: paintings on the walls and two sets of doll art in the display case.
Janna Wiscomb, a multidisciplinary artist using makeup as her medium to explore race, gender fluidity, and our relationship with space, will feature her paintings from February 1-29.
For the first two weeks of the month, the display case will feature Raggedy Dolls and love letters in celebration of Valentine’s Day.
Michelle Mielke’s endearing Amigurumi creatures – knit or crocheted stuffed yarn beings and objects from the Japanese tradition – will delight all ages during the last two weeks of February.
Janna Wiscomb’s BIO: I use cosmetics as my “paint,” layering and blending colorful powders with vibrant eye-shadows and lipsticks to create faces that capture both the uniqueness and commonality of human experience. Using brushes and sponges as my tools, I weave a story with every brushstroke, touching on pride, insecurity, and the rituals of self-decoration. It challenges societal constructs of beauty and compels the viewer to question assumptions around gender, race, age and conformity. Within my portraits are celebrations of diversity, imperfections, and the freedom to decorate our bodies without judgement. My makeup portraits compel audiences to think beyond surface appearances and to reflect on who we are as earthly inhabitants, responsible for each other and future generations.
Michelle Mielke’s BIO: I am primarily a self-taught crocheter who loves creating amigurumi – the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting stuffed yarn creatures. Initially inspired by their mythology and variety, I started making gnomes. As my technique and consistency improved, I expanded to teddy bears, dolls and representations of animals and people. I love adding the details and accessories to each one. As every creature comes into being, I am filled with joy as each one seems to have their own expression, character and uniqueness. I am most happy when this joy is shared by a child or adult who picks up a creature that calls to them.