|
5 Artists - 5 Directions in Polymer Clay
by Jamey D. Allen
With more than 100 beautiful photographs, all in full color, and detailed instructions, Leslie Dierks leads the reader on a thorough exploration of the versatility of polymer clay.
This book, published two years ago, serves to illustrate the work of five artists who continue to work on the cutting edge of this exciting medium. The book is a document of the original show, along with biographical sketches of the five artists. The sketches include discussions about the origin and development of each artist’s unique approach to the medium, putting each individuals work into perspective. It is an excellent preface for anyone planning on viewing the current exhibit, and for those unable to attend, it’s the next best thing. Accompanying the excellent photography, Jamey Allen explains the evolution of the casual consortium he refers to as the “Polymer Five”. These five artists, all working around the San Francisco Bay area in 1992, happened to emerge simultaneously, as primary proponents of polymer art on the west coast. Although each of the five considered themselves jewelry makers, they were each experimenting with new formats, pushing the medium, and developing five distinct and unique styles.
They agreed to develop an evolving group exhibition, that would include the work of some outstanding local artists, and committed themselves to continually produce new work, taking it beyond the scope of past productions. Their success is evident not only in the current show, and their wide recognition as masters of the medium, but in the wide acceptance and respectability that polymer has gained as an art form.
The artists featured in “Five Artists - Five Directions in Polymer Clay Too”, all recognized as top innovators in the medium, are Pier Voulkos, Martha Breen, Ruth Anne Grove,Michael Grove and Jamey D. Allen.
Pier Voulkos, a graduate of California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, is considered a prime mover for wider acceptance of polymer clay through the quality and originality of her work.
Martha Breen, a lifelong artist with work exhibited at museums across the country, used her familiarity with glass millefiore cane-making, and translated those skills to polymer clay, creating expressive patterns of delicate detail.
Ruth Anne Grove and Michael Grove, a husband and wife collaborative team, have worked with polymer for the last ten years. Their figurative jewelry is shown nationally, and their work is in the permanent collection of the Cooper - Hewitt Museum. Jamey D. Allen is well-known as a writer, teacher, speaker, and expert on ancient bead technology.
Polymer Clay is becoming an increasingly recognized art form, and these artists share a commitment to exploring the medium’s technical capabilities.
 Published by Flower Valley Press,- $18.95
|
