Painting with Fire! During the mid-twentieth century, the artform of enameling was highly popular in the US. Enameling involves fusing glass to metal through an extremely high temperature firing process. It achieves brilliant colors and metallic textures. During the 50's and 60's, enameled pieces were a popular wedding gift, and since all things mid-century have gained popularity again, thus a renewed appreciation- and that's a good thing! The
Long Beach Museum of Art is currently having a great exhibit called
"Painting with Fire- masters of enameling, 1930-1980" that showcases 15 artists and their contribution to the artform.
The pieces are incredible and inspiring, ranging from art nouveau all the way to more modern pieces from the 70's and 80's. My favorite pieces were from artists Ellamarie and Jackson Woolley. They were based in San Diego and created fun and playful designs that capture the optimistic spirit of the mid century era. The front banner poster features one of their classic pieces, entitled "Harlequin in the Sun." The show is on disply through August 19th, 2007, so if you're planning a day in the LBC, definitely check out this exhibition. Click
here for directions and more info.
Artwork featured: Frugent, by Ella Woolley.
I love it! What a great image. Wish I could see this in person.
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Thanks for this post! I now have a date to go see this show.
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