ArtFusion 19464’s latest show titled “5” is a showcase for five talented local artists: Kristen VonHohen, Bob Hakun, Dora Siemel, Jeanne Petrosky and Dennis Guzenski.
Each artist creates unique three-dimensional art pieces in different mediums from clay and glass to handmade paper and rusted metal. The show opens Nov. 4 and runs through Nov. 15.
VonHohen is a local artist residing in Gilbertsville. Her passion in ceramics was formed in Boyertown High School’s art program in the early 2000s. She went on to attend University of the Arts in Philadelphia, earning a BFA in Ceramics. Kristen focuses on hand built structures and enjoys experimenting with forms and shape. In this show Kristen’s latest work incorporate fusible glass in the finished pieces, creatively combining two completely different elements to create new works of art.
Siemel’s sculpture medium is clay. She has her own studio in Green Lane. All her pieces are hand built and fired to between cone 4 and cone 6. The colors come from any combination of glazes, oxides, paints and waxes. Since each piece is made individually, no two are exactly alike. She does, however, make “families” that have the same general characteristics.
Hakun says of his work: “I collect old discarded common items: some natural, some man-made. I look for old pieces that show the graphic effects of aging: the beauty and harshness of the breaking-down over time of all things into what they came from. I look for pieces that are burnt, broken, rusty, crushed, bent, stained and cracked (and sometimes smell bad). Sometimes the final art piece will seem to tell a story or convey a message about something, but it will not be clear as to what that message really is. It is open to interpretation by the viewer.”
Petrosky has always loved creating. She studied painting, drawing, sculpture, etching, graphic arts, and pottery. In 1987, Jeanne met a woman at a party who made paper. Having always loved paper and fiber, the first thing out of her mouth was “I’d like to try that.” The connection to making paper was immediate.
Guzenski has always loved drawing. His fine art career evolved from the world of decorative arts. He came to painting by way of many different careers including painting the exteriors of Victorian homes. His growing interest in learning many new decorative painting and designer wall finishes eventually turned into a business.
Petrosky and Guzenski met in 2002, beginning a journey of partnership, and collaborations in the studio. The fine art of Petrosky and Guzenski is now a completely collaborative effort.
ArtFusion will host a reception on Friday November 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. where guests can meet and talk with each of the artists. Light refreshments will be served, and the event is free and open to the public. RSVPs to 610-326-2506 are appreciated.
