By Nicole Royse on May 9, 2014
The West Gallery in Eye Lounge has been transformed into a world of mysterious undergarments and wooden shelves. May features the striking and unusual artwork of local artist Emmett Ramstad with his latest series titled “Knowing You Unknown”. Ramstad has been a member of Eye Lounge for several years and this exhibition will mark the end of his membership with the artist cooperative gallery. When asked about this current exhibition, Ramstad said, “This exhibition asks how we are unique, what constitutes intimacy and how we document our differences.” Ramstad seems to continue his exploration of the body, sexuality, and intimacy through the use of ordinary objects such as underwear, socks, and handkerchiefs that have been elevated into striking sculptures.
Highlights of the exhibition include “Pick Me Up When I Fall”, a series of latex covered underwear displayed on pinewood shelves while beautiful and intimate vintage photographs adorn walls adjacent to the sculptures around the gallery. One set of photographs in particular titled “Homosocial Omissions” shows an intimate setting between several young men with several figures erased or blurred out of the photograph evoking mystery and curiosity as well as a blatant reference to sexuality. “Hanky Code” is brilliant with handkerchiefs covered in latex displayed in a drawer enticing the viewer to just reach out and touch these private items. These engaging works of art are evocative, delicate and beautiful yet still slightly unnerving; even more so since the white appearance gives the illusion of plaster and being breakable. Speaking with artist about his work Ramstad said, “My artworks are small testaments to ordinary activities and bodily functions that transform physical traces of the body into sculptures and prints.” This stunning exhibition contains simple everyday objects related to the body that have been transformed into thought provoking and intriguing pieces of art.
Stop by Eye Lounge to experience “Knowing You Unknown”, a poignant and engaging exhibition of prints and sculptures by Emmett Ramstad that are sure to move you. Also on view in both the East Gallery and the Project Room is a unique exhibition featuring the work of two artists, Wendy Raisanen and David L. Bradley in “One + One= One” and “Collaboration = Fights + Kisses”. This exhibition highlights an exciting combination of ceramics and mixed media sculptures using a variety of materials such as copper wire, fishnet, LED lights and much more, to create intriguing and beautiful art that will not disappoint. Be sure to head downtown to Eye Lounge this week and check out these great exhibitions which are on display through May 11, 2014.
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