Eden means “delight” in Hebrew. Besides the biblical reference, “Garden of Eden” has become synonymous with “paradise.” The term often refers to a state of innocence and peacefulness, virtually unattainable in our complex world. However, through their creativity, artists can visualize and present images to others of what could be.
This exhibition features installations by Ulla Anobile (paper mache), Johanna Hansen (ceramics), Mavis Leahy (fiber with vintage elements & assemblage), and Ellen Rundle (ceramics). Anobile, who suggested the theme for the show, says, “The world of imagination is my paradise. Its many roads can take me anywhere, even to worlds that never existed. One of my favorite places to visit is the intersection where Nature meets Spirit. I go there to find inspiration for my artwork…If I am lucky, a little of what my inner eye sees on those flights of fancy makes it into my finished artwork. But never all of it. For a paradise can be visited, but never lived in. It would be arrogant - and dangerous - to insist that paradise on earth could ever be an attainable condition.”
In addition to the installations, many artists contribute single pieces such as Mercedes Gertz's oil on canvas confectionery landscape, Lucia Loiso's color photograph "Garden," Cindy Rinne's art quilt "Walking with God", Robin Bevan's mixed media "Does This Taste Funny to You?" and Linda Jaques’ painting refers to the Irish legend of Tir Na Nog. All the work on view comes from the unique perspective of each artist regarding this infinitely rich theme.
Jewelers Ruth Kaplan, Courtney Lipson, Lynn Leatar, Lisa Toland and Andrea Munoz are show their handcrafted jewelry. Their designs are organic in form and/or include imagery related to nature.
Conceived to offer a respite from modern day anxiety, The Folk Tree’s GARDEN of EDEN offers many uplifting viewpoints - humorous, provocative, and inspirational.
The Folk Tree is located at 217 South Fair Oaks Avenue, minutes walking distance from the Gold Line’s Del Mar Station (and just fifteen minutes from downtown Los Angeles off the end of the 110 freeway) near the heart of Old Pasadena. Gallery hours are:
M-W, 11-6; Th-Sat, 10-6; Sun, 12-5. For more information, contact The Folk Tree at
626/795-8733 or Gail Mishkin at 626/793-4828.
