We will be hosting a reception on Thursday, September 21st for our Midtown Gallery Guest Artists. Brenda Jones and Gwen McClenton. Please join us as we celebrate The Clayworks artists and our gallery guests from 5 pm to 8 pm. Tea, cookies, and wine will be served. This event is free and open to the public.
Brenda Jones is a contemporary sculptor who lives and works in Colorado. She grew up in southeast Kansas in the 1960s. Her work focuses on interactions with the natural world through the combination of block printed and encaustic waxed papers that are sewn together into large scale, sculptural garments or ceramic sculptures which tend to pay homage to that time and place . Jones’ artwork has been shown in exhibits across the U.S. She has won best of show in several exhibits and has receives scholarships to study at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago, Anderson Ranch in Aspen, and Fulbright travel studies to Argentina and Japan. She received both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wichita State University. She is represented by Strecker-Nelson gallery in Manhattan, KS, and Abbey Lane Gallery in Creede, CO.
Brenda Jones
720-940-0152
Artist Statement
I am interested in issues of gender and how traditional work for women has changed over time yet remains imbedded in tradition. I focus on a narrative/nostalgic quality. This intrigues me because traditional gender narration still holds true in a contemporary society even when we strive to move beyond that tradition. The feminine remains lusciously here, we embrace it while championing women thriving in much different roles Clothes, including aprons, are a visual language, stories are told through what we wear. In a way, I feel like the works that I make are like wearable portraits, a specific person or a mixture of people.
Gwen McClenton – “Gweneth Originals”
For over 20 years I have been a Human Resources professional. Through that experience, I came to recognize the need to explore my inner creative child that would bring enjoyment. So, a year ago I started dabbling in copper jewelry having great fun along the way, however, I came to a point at being self-taught that I knew I needed more. In January of this year, I started a silversmithing class and immediately realized I was hooked! What a wonderful ride this has been as I have learned new techniques and processes. Recognizing the beauty of the natural gemstones
My eye is drawn to the warmer tones of the copper and brass and natural semi-precious gemstones but the silver brings a completely different experience. I have come to find my “fun” and I am so loving the opportunity to learn new things and engage with a new community of people on this artistic adventure.
I have two grown daughters who lovingly cheer me on as well as act as ambassadors for my creations! So come along and enjoy this journey with me….the best is yet to come!
