Who knew that iron could be so versatile and beautiful? 'The Color of Iron,' a new exhibition at the Chazen Museum of Art, showcases the aesthetic quality of iron through the interrelated disciplines of art and science.
The exhibit focuses on four artists: John Britt, Saundra McPherson, Scott Shapiro and Michael Ware. Each of the artists specializes in a different medium, and each artist has their own technique and theory of how to use iron in artwork.
John Britt's ceramic pieces are simply stunning. The rich, bright colors and fascinating effects apparent in his various cups, bowls and vases are unlike any of their kind. Some of Britt's pieces look like they have tiny stars embedded on the surface. It is hard to believe that tiny crystals of iron create the glittery effect that they do.
Saundra McPherson's paintings'utilizing deep, earthy tones and the deliberate juxtaposition of bright turquoise blues against sandy browns and brick reds'create an abstract, desert landscape feel. Interestingly enough, many of the colors McPherson uses in her paintings are derived from iron minerals found in desert landscapes.
Scott Shapiro's vessels and glass sculptures have a modern, 'neon sign' quality about them. One of Shapiro's pieces, 'Krypton Gas,' is like a real, adult-sized Lite-Brite that perfectly illustrates the range of colors iron can impart to glass depending on the amount of light.
Michael Ware's photography takes a unique approach to black and white, or in this case, blue and white. Ware uses iron compounds and crystals of Prussian blue in his developing process to create photographs of the same tone. While the use of the color blue in art has often been associated with a tone of sadness thanks to works like those from Picasso's Blue Period, Ware's photographs demonstrate that blue can convey a wide range of emotions. Ware's photographs express as much emotion as black and white photos; the only difference is that the change in the color scheme make Ware's photographs much more visually appealing.
Overall, 'The Color of Iron,' which runs until March 19, is very unique. It is an interesting, multi-faceted look at two entities not many would associate together. Moreover, it effectively integrates the practical, laboratorial elements of science with the personal, natural qualities of art. 'The Color of Iron' is an exhibition not to be missed.
