Group show at Figureworks

Tonight I went to a group show, "10 Years of Figureworks" celebrating the gallery's 10th birthday and featuring the work of ten artists who exhibit there regularly.

Works by Jorge Alvarez, Howard Eisman, Bonnie Faulkner, Fred Hatt, Meridith McNeal, Doug Meltzler, Arlene Morris, Audrey Rhoda, Jacquelyn Schiffman, and Mary Westring all reference the figure in some way, yet each of the works was very unique and personal. The show was expertly curated, and each piece was given enough space to be seen on its own at the same time that they all spoke to each other and worked well together.

Outstanding was Meridith McNeal's life-sized dress made from the score and libretto of Les Contes d'Hoffmann. The dress is titled "Giulietta" , after the courtesan who trifles with Hoffmann's affection in order to win a diamond. McNeal's dress, which allows the viewer to read parts of the score and libretto, is trimmed with deep red velvet ribbon and white lace, and is subtly ornamented with rhinestone jewels. It's simple, elegant, and truly stunning.