Longing for Mountains

Andy Moerlein: 

Longing for Mountains

Nov. 7 - Dec. 9, 2018

Artists' Reception & Talk: Nov. 10, 3 - 6pm

First Friday Closing Reception: Dec. 7, 5 - 8pm

  

Longing for Mountains, Andy Moerlein's second solo exhibition at Boston Sculptors Gallery, is focused on the aesthetics of stone art and artifice. Working in wood, ceramic and a spectrum of other media, Moerlein's sculptures are natural in sensibility, yet the artist's hand is simultaneously evident. Longing for Mountains is inspired by the ancient Asian tradition of displaying unique stones in the home and garden. Chinese Scholars' Rocks and Japanese Zen gardens are vital references, yet these abstract wood, ceramic and "hand made stone" sculptures are not natural objects, but expressive abstractions. The practice of collecting stones is a sentimental one, as those we pick up and keep have the power to transport us to past experiences. Growing up immersed in the wilderness of Alaska, Moerlein's study of gesture painting and sculpture was highly influenced by the landscape's solitude and drama. The "hand made stones" on view capture his reverence for nature and passion for lively abstraction. Moerlein has invited three special guests to host events in the gallery during the exhibition. Chinese Scholars' Rocks expert, author and dealer Kemin Hu will present and discuss five exceptional examples of Chinese Scholars' Rocks. Contemporary ink artist Quanzhou (Jack) Zhao will perform a large-scale calligraphy demonstration. Finally, Tim Springer, a connoisseur of Scholars' Rocks will share a slideshow of of his travels in China in search of his exceptional garden stones. Sat., Nov. 10, 3-6pm  Artist Reception & Talk with Special Guest Kemin Hu  Sun., Nov. 18, 12pm  Calligraphy Demonstration with Quanzhou (Jack) Zhao  Sun., Dec. 2, 3pm Collecting Strange Stones: The Art of Scholars' Rocks  with Tim Springer Andy Moerlein on facebook