REfUSE features the work of three artists Brian David Dennis, Donna Quinn, and Stella Untalan. At its center the exhibibition is work on packing and discarded cardboard material. Each artist has approached their presented work from a different aesthetic and process consistent with their practices.  

ARTIST STATEMENTS

Brian David Dennis REGARD (DISCARD)

Working within a theme can be a catastrophe or a catalyst. In the case of REfUSE, we are working with omnipresent packing materials. At first, I was inclined to conceal, camouflage, or build illusions with it, but deception seemed disastrously dishonest.

I have long had an affinity for cardboard. As I worked, I honed in on the essence of my attraction. The inherent elegance and grace became my building blocks. It compelled me to find the strength to ward off complexity and pin the pieces on simplicity. 

Donna Quinn CUTTING CORNERS

This spirited series plays upon the fanciful marks and shapes frequently found in my paintings. Made possible from the malleability of discarded cardboard boxes, from which they are made.

Stella Untalan ARCHITECTURAL IGOE

My work for this exhibition explores the surfaces, textures, and shapes of cardboard packaging. The materials were selected from deliveries to my home and studio. Some interesting pieces with cutouts or folds were given to me. I love the surface of cardboard and the natural shades of brown or gray. I want to make that surface noticeable in this work.

These works are sculptural and explore a vocabulary of marks that I’ve used many times, some scaled up to accentuate the shapes of the finished works. There are dimensional wall pieces, dangling structures, and maybe a tube.