Contemporary Artists Reflect on Both Animal and Human Nature

Animals have long been subject matter for artistic exploration. Sometimes symbol and metaphor, sometimes curiosity or marvel-their presence as a visual component of human culture endures. Open through October 7, 2012, Animal Nature features 68 objects from 17 artists. The artists included in this exhibition approach their subject through a variety of media and techniques. Whether using jewelry, cut paper, blown glass, or other materials, these artists create engaging works that reflect on both animal and human nature. 

Teresa Faris, Collaboration with a Bird II, 2011, Sterling silver, wood altered by a bird, and stainless steel, Collection of the Artist, Photography: Courtesy of the Artist

Contemporary artists, working in a variety of media, have felt compelled to address the complex relationship between humans and animals with work that is witty, insightful, and poignant. Even when animals are the obvious focus of these artists' objects and images, human beings and their impact upon the natural world are always a subtext.

Artists whose works are featured in Animal Nature include: Susan Aaron-Taylor, Eunmi Chun, Teresa Faris, D.R. Harper, Ron Layport, Anne Lemanski, Carmen Lozar, Manya and Roumen, Kyoko Okubo, Miel-Margarita Paredes, Linda Kindler Priest, Tom Rauschke and Karen Wiiken, Michael Velliquette, and Betsy Youngquist and R. Scott Long.

Catch the Summer Menagerie on Exhibit at the Racine Art Museum

This summer, the Racine Art Museum features an exciting array of exhibitions and programming that focus on animals and their relationship with humans. Museum Menagerie at RAM highlights a collection of creatures by contemporary artists, safely held captive for all to view.

RAM hosts Beth Van Hoesen: The Observant Eye from May 20 through September 9, 2012. Van Hoesen is known for her realistic images of animals, floral studies, figure drawings, and portraits. Her animal prints are particularly engaging.

Animal Magnetism: Sculpture from RAM's Collection presents works from RAM's significant permanent holdings that feature animals as subject matter. Handle with Care: Recent Acquisitions in Glass in RAM's smaller Ruffo and Schumann Galleries highlights works made of glass that were recently gifted to the museum. This exhibition not only celebrates the arrival of significant glass works to RAM's collection, it is also linked to a nationwide anniversary of studio glass in America.