Ceramic work by Barbara Yarnell. Courtesy photoMPL News:
The public is invited to the opening reception for a new exhibit at Mesa Public Library, 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4 in the Upstairs Rotunda.
The exhibit is entitled “West and East: Just for the Beauty of It.” The artists are SuFong Milonni (Mei-li) and Barbara Yarnell. Both artists work in the medium of clay. The show
will be in the Gallery through Feb. 28.
Yarnell was born right here in Los Alamos. In the southwestern part of the United States. Mei-li was born and grew up in An-tung China in the northeastern part of China- two cities on opposite sides of the earth.
“We met and have worked together at UNM-Los Alamos clay studio for over 10 years,” Yarnell said. “Of course, during these 10 years working together we have mixed and blended our styles, each learning from the other. For this show, we went back to our original backgrounds for inspiration.”
In this show Mei-li’s works are in the oriental tradition and Yarnell’s are flavored by the southwest. Yarnell’s work is inspired by the mesas and enchanted sky of northern New Mexico, while Mei-li’s work is in the ancient tradition of Chinese celadon glazing. She also has decorated her pots with Chinese writings that enhance the beauty of her vessels.
Yarnell’s work is fired in an electric kiln to a mid-range stoneware temperature. Mei-li’s work is fired in a gas kiln to a higher stoneware/porcelain temperature.
Mei-li and Yarnell have been friends and collaborators for many years.
“We enjoy working together and exploring the world of clay. Both of us strongly believe that art from different cultures can be united by the beauty of the work itself. The blending of cultures is an important endeavor of this show. Please come and enjoy the show.”
The Upstairs Art Gallery at Mesa Public Library hosts shows by local and regional artists, as well as travelling exhibits, 10-12 times each year. The Gallery is open during regular library hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.
For more information about the Gallery, call Katy Korkos at 505.662.8247. For more information about all events at the library, visit the Events page on the Library website.