Showcasing work in a range of media including functional and sculptural ceramics, fiber, mixed media, jewelry and collage, the exhibit introduces work by Arrowmont’s five Artists-in-Residence as they begin their 11-month residency. The exhibit is on view from June 29 – August 6, 2016, in the Geoffrey A. Wolpert Gallery. Admission is free and the community is encouraged to attend with their friends and family. Gallery hours are Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm.
Grant Benoit is a mixed media artist interested in narrative, place and memory. He received his MFA in printmaking from Southern Illinois University and his BA from Spring Hill College. Grant utilizes techniques from ceramics, printmaking, and textiles in his installation and sculptural pieces. www.grantbenoit.com
Richard W. James received his MFA in ceramics from the University of Kansas and his BFA from University of Tennessee, Martin. His figurative sculptures explore childhood experiences and psychological narratives by combining clay, found objects and textiles. www.richardwjames.com
Maia Leppo is a metalsmith and jeweler. Maia received her MFA in metals from SUNY New Paltz. Studying first in Biology and Community Health at Tufts University, Maia incorporates those interests and research into her jewelry and body adornment pieces. www.maialeppo.com
Austin Riddle recently completed his BFA in ceramics from University of Utah. He has previously been to Arrowmont as a studio assistant and makes utilitarian clay objects using a variety of construction, decorative, and firing techniques. www.instagram.com/austinriddlepottery
Emily Schubert graduated from Maryland Institute College of Art with BFA in fiber and textile art. She has spent the past several years studying and working in the art of puppetry and performance. “Drawing from mythology, folktales, memories, and personal experience I create sculptures, characters, puppets, and multi-media performances that aim to make some sense of our existence by giving form to our collective fears, sorrows, and desires,” says Emily. www.emily-schubert.com
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts is a national art education center. The school enriches lives by developing aesthetic appreciation and fostering self-expression with hands-on experiences in a variety of media, classes, conferences and seminars. On the leading edge of arts education, Arrowmont utilizes contemporary and fine arts techniques to build upon a foundation of traditional arts and crafts.
