Natasha Nicholson–materials: re-invented, re-viewed

October 1-31, 2010

On display are small works of sculpture by Madison artist, Natasha Nicholson. According to the artist: “Books feed art.  I long for beauty in works of art and books, and it is order and beauty that is at the heart of that which I wish to create. What you see here are cabinet works, a phrase which describes small paintings or sculptures, objects rather like books in size. They are intimate, with the viewer and artist sharing the same space, and the simple act of holding them can be physically exciting.”

Nicholson uses simple and natural materials such as wood, along with found objects (pencils, twigs, etc.), to create a magical experience for the viewer. She adds: “Weaving a spell and pulling the viewer into the work is a powerful tool, one that I hope to achieve, yet cannot take for granted.  After all, true magic keeps its secrets and does not reveal the how or the why but rather provokes wonder.”  Her works of assemblage are done without sketches or working drawings, but instead begin with the following words in mind: “Simple-Poetic-Intense-Magic-Beautiful-Quiet.”

Curated by Natasha Nicholson.

Image:  Natasha Nicholson.  Portable Shrine (2009).