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Where is the line between art and craft? The latest exhibit at the NorVA Centre, For the Love of Craft, explores this question.
For the Love of Craft is a touring exhibit that showcases selected works from the Manitoba Craft Council’s annual Member Exhibition and Sale.
The exhibit includes 15 pieces created by 15 different artists, including work in glass, fibre, metal, paper, wood and ceramics.
For the Love of Craft has travelled all over Manitoba since its first stop in Thompson last May; it will be on display at the NorVA Centre for the month of January.
“I know that everyone will have a connection to at least one piece, if not more,” says Rose-Anne Harder, executive director of the Manitoba Arts Network, the organization that coordinates the touring exhibit.
For those who imagine quilts, needlework pillows or ceramic mugs when they hear the term “craft,” this show will certainly be an eye-opener.
“Traditionally what we call craft is based on utilitarian use, for example beading on moccasins, sewing, knitting and functional ceramics,” said Mike Spencer, manager of NorVa Centre. “Nowadays, it’s a more complex distinction, with lots of people using those mediums to create artworks that aren’t necessarily utilitarian objects, but art objects. That’s what this show is focused on: using craft methods in interesting, inventive new ways.”
Linda Glowacki is one artist who takes an innovative approach to a traditional craft. A shepherd, Glowacki tends to a flock of Shetland sheep in Cloverleaf, Manitoba, and creates fibre art from homemade wool. In Storm of Myth and Magic, one of the featured pieces in the exhibit, Glowacki has used a needle-felting technique to create a dramatic, colourful wall hanging, which begs a second, or third look.
With a variety of materials, styles and techniques highlighted, NorVA’s latest exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the modern world of craft, while also giving the artists who work in traditional “craft” mediums some long-overdue credit.
“Over the years, craft has been marginalized and not always respected on the same level as art,” Rose-Anne Harder notes, “The Manitoba Craft Council has been working to improving this. Craft can be just as rich and rewarding as other forms of art and should be celebrated as such.”
For the Love of Craft will be exhibited until the end of January at the NorVA Centre at 177 Green Street. Visit norvacentre.com for more information.
