inspired by
group exhbition

april 11 - may 10, 2009
opening reception: saturday, april 11, 4-7 pm

The Traver Gallery Tacoma is proud to present INSPIRED BY - a group exhibition featuring 16 of today’s emerging glass artists paired with the artists who have most greatly influenced their work. A group of exceptional young glass artists were asked to select one or two individuals who significantly impacted their own artistic careers. The show is a rare opportunity to view new work by the next generation of glass masters alongside work by their artistic influences.

Inspirations and mentors facilitate growth and propel us forward in any career path. In the case of an aspiring artist this relationship is often of critical importance. The mentors in this exhibition have acted as both springboard and sounding board. They have knowingly, and at times unknowingly, been models of artistic and personal achievement. They have, in every case, encouraged the next generation of artists to continue the pursuit of their goals. INSPIRED BY celebrates this unique relationship between two generations of artists.

Short statements written by each selecting artist illuminate the significant impact of their mentors. Artist Alex Gabriel Bernstein says of his selection Frantisek Janak, “During my first year of grad school I met Frantisek Janak in Frauenau, Germany at the International Glass Symposium where he was an invited artist. Soon this man would become my teacher and mentor. . . Frantisek led by example, being a tireless worker from initial conception of an idea to the final installation of a show. His work ethic and constant dedication to make better work each day in the studio is something that has become second nature to me.”

On display through May 10, Traver Gallery’s group exhibition brings together studio glass artists from the region and around the world. Including such diverse artists as Jeremy Lepisto alongside Daniel Clayman and Kirstie Rea, Jay Macdonell alongside Laura de Santillana and Alessandro Diaz de Santillana, or Ethan Stern alongside Jun Kaneko, INSPIRED BY recognizes those who most encouraged a new generation of glass artists to strive for excellence.

Tacoma
1821 E Dock Street #100
Tacoma, WA 98402
253.383.3685 phone
253.383.3687 fax
tacoma@travergallery.com

Tacoma gallery hours are
Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 6 and
Sunday 12 - 5

www.travergallery.com