Husband-wife exhibit at Dublin Arts Council a study in contrasts
In their duo exhibit, “Accomplices,” at the Dublin Arts Council, husband and wife artists Joseph Van Kerkhove and Kristin Kowalski intersperse their remarkably diverse but compatible creations.
His are abstract, enigmatic prints often constructed with unconventional materials and hers are bold, colorful and sturdy floral ceramics. Their pieces speak confidently and independently, yet cohabit in this engaging exhibit.
In his artist statement, Van Kerkhove writes:
“I am discovering a visual language that includes objects, surface and color. A common object like the screw is something that is often disregarded. I use its traditional formal quality along with its endless conceptual interpretations to contrast process with idea.”
Indeed, the screw, in a variety of interpretations, occurs frequently in his work. In “Concept IV,” a plaster, print and collage work, a white, screw-like implement is seen driving down, surrounded by colors of charcoal gray and blood red.
In an untitled work, a pendulum swings toward a rhinoceros tipped to a vertical position, all against a soft pink background.
A male head, the artist’s self-portrait, recurs in a number of works including an untitled woodcut in which the large head is surrounded by faces and two robot figures positioned on a base of blocks.
Holding their own with these ofteninscrutable prints are the ceramic sculptures of Kowalski. Her high-gloss flowers are grounded and sensual, even conjuring up thoughts of Georgia O’keeffe’s floral paintings.
Kowalski’s works are all titled, often with descriptive nouns such as “elation,” “decency,” “devotion,” “adoration” and “poise.” In “Fortune,” red and pink blossoms are supported by thick green stems and leaves. “Renewal” presents three lily-like flowers in shades of red on a base of green leaves. And “Flare” is an artichoke-style red blossom erupting from a purple bud and a base of green leaves.
“I want my work to be very sensual, playful and slightly dark,” Kowalski writes. “I try to create these feelings with the combination of form, color and surface texture. The floral elements in my work have been inspired from my garden. I love the process and transformation that occurs in nature.”
The couple met 20 years ago at the Columbus College of Art & Design and today, live in Toledo. Van Kerkhove, 43, is an assistant art professor and director of the Dianne Kidd Art Gallery at Tiffin University and Kowalski, 40, is an art instructor at the Maumee Country Day School in Toledo.
Would these prints and sculptures be paired with one another were not the artists partners? Perhaps not, but the exhibit of such contrasting but complementary works is interesting and stimulating.
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