Glass Wheel Studio Art Exhibitions to Shed Light on Endangered Species with the First Public Appearance by ‘Dudley’ Virginia Zoo’s Sloth

NORFOLK, Va., March 24, 2016 -- Glass Wheel Studio, a contemporary art facility located in Norfolk, announces the launch of two new exhibitions with an opening celebration to take place on Friday, April 1, 2016, from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. 

Glass Wheel Studio Art Exhibitions to Shed Light on Endangered Species with the First Public Appearance by ‘Dudley’ Virginia Zoo’s Sloth

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c93a7136-3339-4b63-b52d-e9b57800073b

On view April 7 – May 22, the exhibitions will feature works by Washington-based artist, Kelly O’Dell and Hampton Roads-based artist, April Taylor-Martin. Both exhibitions explore the interconnected relationships between humans and critically-endangered animals. 

Known for her exquisite, hot-sculpted glass forms, O’Dell’s newest body of work, Critical Masse challenges not only her skills but also the role humans play in animal extinction. The exhibition showcases 13 animal busts executed in clear, white, and mirrored glass. Each animal becomes a ghostly memento of all we stand to lose if we do not take actions to protect these magnificent creatures. O’Dell will donate ten percent of her artwork sales to the World Wildlife Fund.  

“Kelly’s glass sculptures are delicate representations of animals whose impending extinction deserves our full attention,” said Cheryl White, Glass Wheel Studio director. “We can no longer overlook the impact humans continue to have on species with which we share the same planet.”

Taylor-Martin hopes to draw a line from our distant past and plot a trajectory for a more positive future. Her exhibition Beyond the Pale: Conjuring New Worlds includes paintings, ceramics and interactive pieces, such as zoetropes and thaumatropes, that enable viewers to participate in the re-animation of species long extinct or see the fate awaiting many others. Her works also highlight wilderness warriors who have made contributions to the protection of endangered species. 

“April’s work employs mythological and personal archetypes to tell the story of human and animal co-existence,” added White. “Visitors are asked to participate in the art driving home the direct influence that humans assert over other species.”

During the Friday, April 1 opening, guests will also be able to meet Dudley, Virginia Zoo’s sloth, who is making his first public appearance in Norfolk to educate the public about local conservation efforts. Connect with art and animals, while enjoying passed hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, from which proceeds will be donated to the Virginia Zoo. To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/GWSThirdExhibition.

About Glass Wheel Studio
Glass Wheel Studio is a contemporary art facility located in the heart of The NEON, Norfolk’s Arts District. The recently renovated 8,500-square-foot space features two rotating galleries and affordable artist studios. Through stimulating exhibitions and an active Studio Artist Program, Glass Wheel Studio aims to cultivate a deep appreciation for contemporary art in glass and beyond. It serves as an incubator for extraordinary ideas and encourages artists across all disciplines to pursue and elevate their craft. For more information visit: www.GlassWheelStudio.com

Gillian Luce
Reed & Associates Marketing
Phone: 757-962-7375
Email: [email protected]
                        
Cheryl White
Glass Wheel Studio
Phone: 757-819-4150
Email: [email protected]