Thursday, November 14, 2024
Photos by Alexandra Butler, photographer/photo editor
The Gallery at Penn College doubled as a woodworking shop during the artist’s reception for “Art of the Everyday,” showcasing the work of Mary Michael Shelley, of Ithaca, New York. Visitors enjoyed the added engagement of watching Shelley demonstrate her low-relief wood carving process during the recent gathering. She also delivered a talk, moving the crowd around the gallery space to discuss numerous works from her 50-plus-year career.
Shelley’s retrospective is on display through Nov. 26 in the gallery on the third floor of The Madigan Library. The Gallery at Penn College’s hours are: 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; Noon to 4 p.m. Fridays; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
The artist demonstrates her low-relief wood carving process during the gallery reception.
Shelley's "woodworking studio" attracts many intrigued visitors.
The Ithaca, New York resident graduated from Cornell University in 1972 and began her carving career the following year.
Tools of the trade
Shelley's works are playful and personal.
A sketch of the work in progress
Countless hours of carving go into each piece.
Gallery-goers explore the stories ...
... and engage in conversation.
Inspiring young art lovers
The flow of the exhibit moves guests through Shelley's 50-plus-years of artistic exploration.
Exhibits are free and open to the public ...
... and gallery receptions also present delicious culinary delights.
The artist's talk offers a meaningful cultural exchange.
Shelley revels in sharing her process with inquisitive visitors.
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