Visual Art Reigns This January

By Lily Mihelich | Photo courtesy Wisconsin Academy

After a busy holiday season, it’s nice to slow down and savor a new year. Carve out some “me” time and check out these art exhibits this month.

“Mary Burns: Women and Water: Woven Portraits From Around the World”

Through Feb. 4, James Watrous Gallery (Overture Center)  

Jacquard loomer Mary Burns’ meticulously-woven portraits explore the relationships and practices between women and water in various cultures. Touching on women’s profound connections with water, Burns’ works honor their different roles — scientists, healers and teachers — contributing to this exhibition that inspires water appreciation and conservation.

wisconsinacademy.org/gallery/mary-burns-women-and-water  

“Madeline Grace Martin: Of Words and Trees: A Collaboration with My Father”

Through Feb. 4, James Watrous Gallery (Overture Center)

Artist Madeline Grace Martin drew inspiration from her father and his many roles in life, from teacher to boxer, for this exhibition. Martin worked in various mediums in tandem with her father’s works and writing, including natural items such as pinecone mandalas embellished by a series of geometric patterns. Her art allows the viewer to contemplate familial ties and the ways art mimics life.

wisconsinacademy.org/gallery/madeline-grace-martin-words-and-trees  

“Fashion Focus | imaginary i”

Through Feb. 18, Madison Museum of Contemporary Art

Check out this exhibit to view the correlations between fashion, technology and art. Mount Mary University’s design program highlights garments made by alumni and students, inspired by the museum’s current exhibition, “imaginary i.” Works are influenced by STEM-based principles, including technology, math, sequencing and geometry.

mmoca.org/events/fashionfocus-imaginaryi 

“Heart, Head, and Hand: Making and Remaking at Berea College Student Craft”

Through March 3, UW–Madison Ruth Davis Design Gallery

“Heart, Head, and Hand: Making and Remaking at Berea College Student Craft” is an exhibition showcasing the work of students from Berea College in Kentucky. The first tuition-free school in the American South to provide interracial education for women and men, the institution has a fascinating history. Works on display range from an altar to cookware, all highlighting the artists.

cdmc.wisc.edu/event/heart-head-and-hand-making-and-remaking-at-berea-college-student-craft   

“Art of Enterprise: Israhel van Meckenem’s 15th-Century Print Workshop”

Through March 24, Chazen Museum of Art

This exhibition showcases the engravings of Israhel van Meckenem, a German printmaker whose works were the first to use a name as a brand or trademark during a period where intellectual property was not safeguarded. Explore van Meckenem’s pieces and learn about the juxtaposition between today’s prints and those of Meeckenem.

chazen.wisc.edu/exhibitions/art-of-enterprise-israhel-van-meckenems-15th-century-print-workshop 

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