Contemporary Artist Using Different Craft Processes

Gabion, Reconstituted Architecture.
Cotton twine, gravel. 2009

On January 30th I had the opportunity to visit the apartment gallery, “Open House” http://open-house-gallery.blogspot.com. I was very excited because this particular type of art space has become very prominent in Chicago’s art scene. The show, “Pile/Pillar”, was an excellent representation of how contemporary artist are using different craft processes like crocheting and materials such as lace. In this case Firat Erdim www.firaterdim.net used Crocheting and rocks in his sculptures. He learned to crotchet with Eric Mercer www.erickmercer.com, in his class “Crocheting for men” at Lillstreet Art Center. Olivia Valentine www.flickr.com/photos/61672735@N00/sets/72157623019596324/ also used lace in and unconventional way, creating a magical environment for the viewer. Be sure to check out the images in order to get a better idea of this exhibition.

Thread, Balloons, Helium, Pins
11 feet overall height as shown, dimensions variable.
2009