Convergence of the ethereal and the earthly
Betsy Irwin and Shera Maher’s ‘Nature Scope’
THE QUESTA PUBLIC LIBRARY is set to host “Nature Scope: Works by Betsy Irwin and Shera Maher,” an exhibition that stands as a testament to the profound interplay of artistic mediums and spirituality. From Feb. 2 through March 30, the works of Betsy Irwin and Shera Maher will coalesce in a display that is as varied in style as it is united in thematic depth. The opening reception on Feb. 10 promises an immersive introduction to their creative realms.
Betsy Irwin’s gourd sculptures are a celebration of nature’s offerings, where the organic form of gourds becomes a canvas for her artistic expression. “I create contemporary art from the oldest plant intentionally grown by humans: gourds,” comments Irwin. This choice of medium is not merely aesthetic but deeply symbolic, as she explains, “nature provides the artisan a rudimentary vessel to refine.” Her sculptural pieces are narratives in themselves, often embodying the elements and intertwining spiritual symbols, reflecting a journey that is both artistic and deeply personal.
Shera Maher’s ink illustrations, on the other hand, are a vivid exploration of the ethereal. “My intention was to create a nature-themed story of pen and ink illustrations, hinting at the connectedness of the animal world and the unseen realm,” Maher shares. Her series, a blend of the mythical and the real, invites viewers to reconsider the boundaries of reality and the unseen, positioning animals as messengers between dimensions. This narrative approach not only showcases her artistic skill but also her profound understanding of the natural world’s mystique.
The backgrounds of Irwin and Maher are as fascinating as their art. Both hailing from Texas, they share a history of growing up in military families, which exposed them to a plethora of cultures and artistic influences from a young age. Irwin’s experiences in Germany and the Philippine Islands and Maher’s in Spain seeded their artistic inclinations early on. “Our traveling exposed us to different cultures and environments, also giving us an opportunity to study art in museum settings at an early age,” reflects Maher on their parallel paths.
Their individual journeys into the art world are marked by distinctive yet converging paths. Irwin’s early fascination with clay and her current passion for gourd work showcase her versatility and deep connection to the earth. “For instance, when I start a sculptural basket, I look for a much thicker gourd, one able to withstand the torque of its handle as it twists up the top of the piece,” Irwin elucidates, revealing her thoughtful approach to her craft.
Maher’s artistic evolution is equally compelling. From a jewelry/product designer to a painter under the mentorship of Gary Cook, Ray Vinella and Christ Morel, Maher’s journey has been one of constant exploration and growth. “I painted day and night, almost obsessively . ... It was so fun. I went off some deep ends, in the name of being true to myself, and I don’t look back,” she recounts, reflecting on her transition to painting and drawing.
Their decision to collaborate on this exhibit is rooted in a deep mutual respect and a shared love for nature. “I love Betsy. She is a true, committed artist and a great example. I love her art and her dedication to her craft. I respect her as a person, and it is an honor to bring our nature-themed symbolism together in the different dimensions in which we express them,” expresses Maher.
Irwin echoes this sentiment: “Shera was one of the first people I connected with when I moved to New Mexico. Our common backgrounds, our love of nature, our mutual respect for each other and one another’s art, not to mention our overlapping spiritual paths made this collaboration a no-brainer.”
“Nature Scope” is a narrative woven through the artistic expressions of two individuals who, despite their different mediums, find common ground in their reverence for nature and spirituality. It invites the audience to engage not just visually but also spiritually, offering a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of life and art.