News

10.07.2009

The Titan and the Fireflies

New Work by Jason Hakenwerth

The Titan and the Fireflies
New Work by Jason Hakenwerth
Curated by Eileen Tognini

Opening Party
Friday October 30, 7-10pm

Exhibition
October 31 - November 28
Tuesday - Saturday
12 - 6 pm

Sky Box
2424 East York Street
Philadelphia, PA 19125

Folding and twisting, folding and twisting, around and around. That's what Jason Hackenwerth will be doing for over a week as he builds The Titan and the Fireflies, opening on Friday October 30 at the Skybox at 2424 Studios, a new studio building at 2424 East York Street in Fishtown.

Inspired by the dramatic turn-of-the century industrial space, I invited Hackenwerth to create his monumental-scale biomorphic sculptural creatures made from balloons to evoke a spirit of wonder and fascination. The use of familiar and ordinary objects, yet unconventional by classical standards of art materials to create art, have long been a personal interest of mine. It's my goal to introduce artists who use unexpected materials that will expand the definition of "what is art".

"The ephemeral nature of an installation is an unmistakable reflection of our own lives. Because of its delicateness, it is difficult to predict how long it will last", Jason notes about his own work, considering his medium as a metaphor for the way artists make their way into the art scene.

A New York City based artist, Jason has been exhibited internationally including the Venice Biennale, SCOPE Art Fair in London, Jang Heung Art Museum in Seoul, Korea and The San Diego Children's Museum. Most recently Jason finished among the Top 10 competing for the largest art purse from The ART Prize in Grand Rapids Michigan where he competed amongst 1262 artists entries to win based on popular vote.

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7.10.2009

inSitu: 628

invitation from inSitu

The third "salon" was held in April in the city house. A fabulous group of artists participated to create a magical environment (to be seen in the upcoming Fall/Winter issue of Philly Home). A collaborative effort with letterpress and bookbinder doyenne, Bridget Bullen, and artist Eric McDade worked together to create a limited edition of 50 numbered/signed small prints enclosed with the letterpress invitations sent to invitees.

Many thanks go to all the participating artists: Paul King, Eric McDade, Emil Alzamora, Alice Oh, Brooke Hine, Doug Bucci, Jedediah Morfit, C. Pazia Mannella, Brenna Murphy, Rebecca Gilbert, Beth Beverly, Julia Stratton, Jenny Lynn, Paul Cava, Schuylar Blanchard, Joanie Turbek, Michael Biello, Greg Nangle, Warren Muller, Lenny Wilson, Darla Jackson and Ralph Gibson. And many thanks also to Cathy at Behind Closed Doors Interiors for the gorgeous pillows made in the nick of time, Steve at Michael's Decorators for resurrecting mid-century chairs with supple gorgeous black leather, Trevor Dixon, for photography extraordinaire, the entire team from Philly Home who took over like nothing I've ever seen, and Global Dish for whipping up a "little sumpin" to eat.

Because it truly "takes a village"...

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