Drawing the Line: From Paper to Pearls

May 6–July 22, 2007

left: Kathleen Lamberti, untitled (segmented necklace), sterling silver, poly chiffon and feathers;
right: Katherine Koehler untitled (yellow ruffle necklace), acrylic and yellow ribbon, photo: Marty Doyle

Drawing is the most immediate and most accessible form of artistic expression. It is often the quickest way for artists to conceptualize and plan their work, no matter what media or format the finished piece will utilize. For the artists whose work is featured in this exhibition, however, drawing is much more than an entry-level skill or planning tool; it is an end in itself.

This exhibition celebrates the essence of drawing by bringing together three artists who reference its technical foundations in their jewelry collections. Lonna Keller’s (IA) rubber-and-pearl compositions recall the playful paths of contour line drawing. Kathleen Lamberti (CA) builds up layers of suede, silver, and soft fabrics to create textural contrast that suggests the accumulation of pencil marks on paper. And Katherine Koehler (NJ) uses bold shapes and strong color accents to lead the eye of the viewer to the work.

Also featured in this exhibition, the ink and graphite compositions of Wisconsin artist Amy Ruffo demonstrate the inherent beauty of line that is referenced in varying ways by the jewelry artists. These works on paper reflect techniques intrinsic to the media, but are made with an unconventional hand, containing an intimate yet frenetic mood. All works in the gallery are available for purchase. All purchases benefit the education, exhibition, community outreach, performing arts programming and operations of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center.

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left: Amy Ruffo, untitled (ink on paper) photo: Jeffrey Machtig; right: Lonna Keller, Playfulness (necklace), rubber, stainless steel.