In partnership with the historic Wharton Esherick Museum, GoggleWorks celebrates luminary woodworker Wharton Esherick alongside national artists he influenced.
Seminal works from Wharton Esherick and other world renowned woodworkers will transform both sides of the premier Irvin and Lois E. Cohen Gallery at GoggleWorks. In partnership with the historic Wharton Esherick Museum, Following Esherick details the eccentric life and groundbreaking works of the famed mid-century studio woodworker. This exhibition, sponsored by the John and Robyn Horn Foundation, will be on view at GoggleWorks from May 7th -June 27th, 2021.
According to WEM, Wharton Esherick (1887–1970) was an artistic polymath whose significant contributions to American art, ranging from works on paper to sculpture, can be found in major museum collections across the country. Perhaps best known for his groundbreaking sculptural furniture, Esherick is widely regarded as the grandfather of the American Studio Furniture movement and one of the foundational figures of contemporary craft and design. His fiercely individual approach to art making, as well as his highly original fusion of form with function, has inspired many notable artists and designers.
The exhibition presents significant Esherick originals as the seeds of that inspiration, exhibiting them alongside a collection of works from internationally-recognized wood artists in his circle of influence, including:
- Jasper Brinton
- Michael Brolly
- Amy Forsyth
- Ray Kelso
- Jack Larimore
- Michael Puryear
Visitors to the exhibit must adhere to ongoing safety measures including temperature checks, face coverings, and social distancing. GoggleWorks accommodates those looking to avoid social contact outside of their group through Art Explorer Tours. These tours are free of cost with advanced booking, and highlight Following Esherick in addition to campus features and the history of the Goggleworks campus. Tour visitors can add on various hands-on art activities for a fee, including ceramic raku, glassblowing, printmaking and woodworking.
Two online discussions will be presented highlighting experts and artists in the field sharing their insights about the influence and works of Wharton Esherick. Discussions will be presented through Zoom, and access and registration information by calling or emailing GoggleWorks or visiting the art center’s Facebook page.
- May 27th, 6:30pm: Stories and Concepts: The Lifestyle and Perspectives of Wharton Esherick
- June 15th, 6:30pm: Design, Materials, and Technique: The Work and Influence of Wharton Esherick