Since 2008, the Museum of Arts and Design has been granting residencies for artists to occupy their sixth floor open studios. It’s a fantastic opportunity for visitors to interact with the artists and gain valuable insights into materials and practice. Each Tuesday through the end of March, Don Porcella will be weaving his magic in the fantastic space on Columbus Circle overlooking Central Park. Thanks to Don for letting us look in on this week’s session.
A steady wave of guests were obviously charmed by the presence of the artist and his willingness to engage in meaningful discourse. Porcella encouraged his new friends to handle some small encaustic paintings while he explained the origins of his material choices and contextual concerns with an ease derived from authenticity. A wide range of his wonderful pipe cleaner sculptures were on hand. There is a real brilliance to these works that transcend the difficult boundary that traditionally exists between fine art and craft. We could tell you a lot about Don, now, but you should visit him and get the story straight.
Don Porcella
Open Studio Residency
Every Tuesday through 25 March 2012
Museum of Arts and Design
NYC
Photographs Scott Lickstein.
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the encaustic paintings are brilliant, and beg to be handled and owned. also i enjoyed the thinner paintings on the mirror behind Don. I bet the sculptures are light as a feather. What an enjoyable article, thank you!