Nine different kinds of apple pie…
The opening of Apple Pie is definitely the best reception I’ve ever had.
Maria and Don, who both work at the Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center, were a big part of why tonight was so much fun. They made the load-in for Apple Pie smooth and easy.
photo by David
The show wouldn’t look nearly so good without their help!
photo by David
In fact, Apple Pie wouldn’t look anything like it does without Maria’s input. She patiently talked me through my various layout ideas until we came up with something that made each of the pieces look their best.
photo by David
I think, too, that part of the fun of this opening was that I was more than ready to introduce this work to its audience. With past shows, I’ve been excited but also nervous—a little unsure of the work on some level.
photo by David
I’ve grown a lot as an artist in the past two years working on this series and developing my own kind of allegorical portraiture, and, as a result, I feel fully confident about Apple Pie.
photo by David
I never thought I’d see the day that I’d do anything that resembled sculpture.
photo by David
But here it is: almost a painting, almost a sculpture, and definitely a new direction for me. The subject of this portrait (here pictured with her husband) wanted to be combined with an American icon who represented green living, something which is very important to her. She suggested various leaders in the field, but I didn’t recognize their names. They hadn’t reached the iconic status I was looking for.
photo by David
I ended up blending Renate with America’s legendary lumberjack to create Paula Bunyan, a hero for today, one who plants trees instead of cuts them down. Remaking the Bunyan myth felt right—it felt important! Paul was such a symbol for early Americans. He represented safety in what was then an overwhelmingly big and wild land, and he needed to rediscover himself in order to be vital again. Renate and I helped him do that. We also helped me make my first non-functional three-dimensional work!
photo by David
Here is another subject, Bonnie, with her portrait (the very flag-like painting in the background).
photo by David
Bonnie, myself, Allie, Bonnie again, my father, and Amal: in this photo, everyone but my father is a subject in this series. Bonnie’s portrait, Nowa Flaga, is one of my father’s favorite paintings, and I’ll tell you why in another post very soon!
photo by David
So the opening was lovely, full of funny moments with good people, like this one for example. Here, Ryan (at left) is making the same face as Taous is in the portrait that’s peeking out from behind Dave.
photo by David
The loveliness was in the people who came to celebrate with me, and also in the many different kinds of apple yumminess which Andrea White of Palette Catering provided!
photo by David
Apple Pie is open through 20 September. I hope you’ll visit the show and then tell me your version of the American dream!
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(3) Comments / Commentaires: Nine different kinds of apple pie…
Gwenn,
I really love the Bunyan bag. This series has so many thoughtful details from stitching to gromets. One of the things I really like most is how the subjects of your portraits have their reflections posted as statements. Very thoughtful and respectful, but not entirely safe. Loved it!
gwenn—
I’m hoping I can stop by when I’m in town in 2 weeks. It will be great to see your work (after so many years of only experiencing them via facebook & your website).
C.J....
Gwenn,
It’s a great series and I’ll be back with other “Americans by choice”.
C.J.
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