More than 40
works by artist Meridith McNeal – including a variety of two-dimensional
and sculptural pieces, such as hand-sewn paper shoes, luggage
and corsets – are on display now through July 29 as part of the
solo show "Beautiful Necessity" at Figureworks (168
North Sixth St. at Bedford Avenue) in Williamsburg.
McNeal’s work has strong roots in domestic, sewn, decorative
and "feminist" traditions, according to Figureworks
curator Randall Harris.
A detail of McNeal’s "Blue Book: 1906, 2001" is pictured
at left. McNeal old GO Brooklyn that she filled the pages of
this bound 1906 society listing with 300 blue matte paintings.
"I work with odd materials, books, gloves and corsets –
wacky stuff, the stuff having history," said McNeal. "This
1906 book was a major find for me." She illustrated the
pages with paper doll-like articles of clothing women in 1906
would have worn. Visitors to the gallery are invited to turn
its pages while wearing gloves that have been hand-beaded by
McNeal.
"There is a lot of stuff to try on or go through in the
show," said McNeal. "It’s not how we are traditionally
taught to look at art." McNeal will discuss both her work
and women artists who have inspired her, at the gallery at 1
pm on July 21. Friday Monday, 1 pm to 6 pm, and the exhibit
can be viewed after July 29 by appointment with the artist, by
calling (718) 875-4047, ext. 13.