From November 5 to November 29, Atlantic Works Gallery presents “Threadbare” a solo exhibition by Kasia Bytnerowicz.
Bytnerowicz started “Threadbare” as a series of paintings to explore the intrinsic qualities of the medium. Rather than concentrate on the qualities of paint, as others have done, she chose to focus this theme on the qualities of the linen canvas.
The initial paintings depict linen shirts hanging on a clothesline. They are drapery studies without a body, though a trace of the human form remains in the structure of the clothing. Only white paint was used, suggesting underpainting. The canvas was not primed so it could be appreciated in its raw form. To emphasize the texture of the weave, the artist removed some threads from the woof and pulled others into an undulating pattern. She also embroidered areas of the canvas. The later paintings are more traditional drapery studies. Though invisible, the female form is suggested by the folds of drapery.
Canvas captures the fluid paint and creative action of the artist into a stable material form. It is the yin component of a painting, defining its shape, size, and texture. The feminine theme is evident on every level. Traditional aspects of "women's work"—weaving, laundry, and embroidery—recur throughout the series. The result is a symphony in negative space and an intimate study of the very fabric of a painting.
- The public is invited to attend the OPENING RECEPTION on Thursday, November 8, from 7 to 9 pm and to visit the gallery during the following hours: Fridays 2-6pm, and Saturdays 2-6pm.
- The public is also invited to attend Atlantic Works Gallery's monthly THIRD THURSDAY POT LUCK GATHERING on Thursday, November 15, from 7-9 pm.
- To schedule a private press viewing and interview at a more convenient time, please contact Kasia Bytnerowicz, 781.853.0017.
Begun in 2003, Atlantic Works Gallery, "East Boston's Collaborative Space for Art and Ideas," is a member-operated gallery located on the top floor of 80 Border Street on the waterfront of East Boston. It is T-accessible (near the Maverick T stop on the Blue Line,) and parking space is usually ample. For detailed directions and other information about members and past and future shows, please see atlanticworks.org.