“Two Women Masters” at CRAFT Gallery

CRAFT Gallery dedicates its new show, opening on July 1st, to two women masters of fine art and craft, Jan Owen and Lissa Hunter, and to their achievements and contributions to fine art and craft. Both Maine artists pay special attention to detail, depth of thought, storytelling and metaphor. Each uses composition, design and craftsmanship to create works that honor their craft methods. Their work is recognized and collected by major art institutions as valued works of art.Among them are The National Museum of Women in the Arts, The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, The Museum of Arts and Design in New York, The Renwick/Smithsonian and The Library of Congress.

Calligraphic artist Jan Owen draws upon the art and methods of early medieval scribes and her love of color, music and poetry. Every stroke of the pen and brush on handmade paper and hollytex requires meditative deliberation and concentration. Her panels, scrolls and books use the power and beauty of words to to take on a contemporary form. Artist Lissa Hunter uses basketry, porcelain and drawing to tell stories, express emotions and ideas, often in metaphor and often incorporating all three disciplines in a single work. This show includes her charcoal drawings. porcelain vessels and wall mounted assemblages with niches holding coiled basketry. All are examples of Hunter’s dedication to exploring materials and forms.

     With no gender bias intended, there are many other Maine women craft artists who deserve recognition and show their work at CRAFT: Autumn Cipala, Sara Hotchkiss, Hanako Nakazato, Christine Peters, Nisa Smiley, Amy Smith and Fiona Washburn. “Two Women” opens on July 1st during the Rockland First Friday Art Walk. There will be live music and refreshments in the courtyard during the evening. The show will continue until August 3rd. CRAFT Gallery is in the courtyard at 12 Elm Street in Rockland. FMI call 207 594 0167 and visit www.craftonelm.com