Places In Between

Merging mediums and exploring new materials is thrilling for artist Stephanie Doty. Often intrigued by the materiality of her work, Stephanie enjoys working with a vast array of mediums. This month in the Galley Annex, she presents her work Places in Between. This body of work incorporates painting, textiles, and ceramic and is inspired by the concept of home. Home, often a symbol of comfort and safety, was challenged by the pandemic as it now represented the dichotomy of protection and isolation.

Reimagining what material could do presents exciting challenges and possibilities for Stephanie. In this exhibit, she creates an illusion by blurring the line between 2D and 3D materials.“I like to work in 2D and 3D simultaneously and experiment with textures and processes.” She uses clay, a traditionally 3D material in 2D form, which appears to be textile. Pushing the concept of home a little further, Stephanie utilized doilies inherited from her grandmother to press into wet clay, creating exquisite lines resembling patterns found in nature. This series of ceramic works within embroidery hoops inspires curiosity and pushes the boundaries of mediums. Along with using dollies, her interest in textiles is also displayed in her garment series Alteration—this specific section of this body of society’s pressure on women’s bodies.

As a professor of art history, many of Stephanie's inspirations come from various points and people in history. Focusing on women in art history, she takes inspiration from Judy Chicago and her work Dinner Party.

Her favorite piece from this show is Why do Raindrops Look Like Tears. This piece was challenging and exciting. The ceramic raindrop suspended from a wood structure that resembles a house presented exciting challenges.

She hopes this show inspires people to ask questions and be curious. Places in Between will be in the Gallery Annex throughout the month of April. Stop by in person or find her work through our online gallery.