Kickin’ It with Joyce J. Scott
November 10, 2006 - January 7, 2007
Curator:
Joyce J. Scott
An exhibition organized and toured by ExhibitsUSA.
Kickin’ It with Joyce J. Scott is generously supported by Altria Group, Inc.
Welcome to Kickin’ It With Joyce J. Scott, an exhibition of artwork by an artist of international reputation whose work is grounded in fundamental social realities. Influenced by traditional craftwork from diverse cultures, Scott transforms quilting, needlework, and beadwork into a powerful artistic medium. Scott’s art offers a concerned interpretation of contemporary issues, at times underscoring her social commentary with biting humor. The challenge her work presents is intensified by the seeming incongruity between her subjects and the way they are presented. Her refined technique and elegant presentation cloak serious, often distressing, subjects with powerful and moving beauty.
“I want to be confused, ignited, knocked down by my own work.”
Scott seeks to stimulate thought and dialogue about social issues of our time, including racism, gender roles, and violence. Some people may find it difficult to encounter the provocative imagery and language Scott uses in her work. We encourage parents and guardians of young viewers, in particular, to take a focused tour of the exhibit. However deeply you choose to become involved in the exhibition, remember that Scott intends for her work to excite and challenge you.
Photos courtesy of Adam Willis.
PHOTO GALLERY
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Joyce J. Scott, one of the most significant artists living and working in Baltimore today, was born there and still lives in the same neighborhood where she was raised. Joyce Scott’s mother is the renowned fiber artist, Elizabeth Talford Scott, who created quilts with unconventional appliqué and embroidery techniques. She has collaborated often with her mother. Joyce Scott began to be influenced from an early age by her family’s three generations of basketmakers, quilters, storytellers and wood, metal and clay workers. At the center of this generative heritage was the influence of Africa, where the creation of utilitarian objects of beauty is everyday practice. Scott received a B.F.A. degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art and a M.F.A. in crafts from Institute Allende in Mexico, with further study at Rochester Institute of Technology in New York and Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Maine. Joyce Scott has exhibited widely across the country, and was featured in a major retrospective of her work at The Baltimore Museum of Art in 2000, titled “Joyce J. Scott: Kickin’ It With the Old Masters.” The show included four installations, an artist-curated mini exhibition, a one-person performance piece, beaded sculptures and fiber pieces.
