Jane Sandelin Gallery: LANDSCAPES OF THE SOUL by Maximo Laura   Maximo Laura  is a third generation weaver from the district of Ayacucho and a graduate of the University of San Marcos. His works are in collections throughout North and South America, Venice, France, Finland and Denmark. Maximo Laura brings a unique and fresh worldview to the traditional Aubusson, Kilim, Soumak and Anillado techniques. Working In 100% Andean alpaca, llama, wool and cotton, Maestro Laura weaves a world that reflects his personal as well as cultural views. His works are three-dimensional representations of Andean mythological themes drawn from Peru's rich history of pre-Colombian cultures such as the Incas and their modem day descendants the Quechua Indians.     Peruvians, especially those of the rural Andean communities, have always had a very rich tradition of cultural weaving and a heritage of fine craft. The violence of the undeclared civil war in the early 1980s caused by the Shining Light guerrillas was extremely violent and made it impossible to get materials. The beautiful tradition was in danger of extinction as there were no materials available to pass down the craft to the next generations. Recently as they have regained peace in Peru there has been a resurgence of these fine crafts. In the 1990s the ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce, in association with other organizations established 3 award programs for traditional craftsmen in attempt to promote the rehabilitation of their rich cultural arts. We are proud to announce that Maximo Laura is this years winner of this national award: the Gran Premio Nacional Amauta Peruana which he will receive on July 23 rd in Peru. Art Works is extremely proud to be showing 23 of his amazing textiles as our feature show through August 23 rd. His weavings are also on display and for sale at the National Museum of the American Indian on the mall in Washington D.C .

 

 

Centre Gallery West: THE WAY I SEE IT by Hugh Harris Hugh Harris is a former resident artist at Art Works known for his colorful nautical paintings. Come see this art veteran's latest work this month in his solo show.

Centre Gallery East: OCTOPUS' GARDEN: Project Octopus by Richard John Becker Becker's new work: "One of nature's most interesting creatures inspired this art."

Corner Gallery : DIMENSIONALITIES IN CLAY by Carolyn Gabb A resident artist at Art Works, Carolyn explores all media and emotions in her tactile work. This collection of clay pieces focuses on figurative reliefs with a peaceful disposition.

Skylight Gallery: IMPULSE by Piper Nichole Ms. Nichole brings us her rich paintings of cityscapes, landscapes and more with her painterly touch and designer eye.