February Staff Recommendations
Unknown Artist, Abstract Lines
Recommended by Sunny:
(Collections Assistant)

Unknown Artist, Abstract Lines. Hand-cut stencil.
This piece is a hand-carved, mulberry paper stencil that was once used in the Japanese fabric dying process, known as Katagami. The mulberry paper is handmade and naturally waterproofed with persimmon juice. The pattern was carved and reinforced with silk threads. While there is a clearly recognizable pattern, I find beauty in the creators intentional, asymmetrical abstraction. Not only is the piece itself a work of art, but understanding its function and history ignites imagination. Producing a new found appreciation.
View work here.
Jim Westergard, Be Careful What You Wish For
Recommended by Nikki:
(Art Photographer / Marketing and Exhibitions Specialist)

Jim Westergard, Be Careful What You Wish For. Wood engraving.
The sweet, playful smile of the squirrel invites a warm and calm feeling that is quickly subverted once the intense and menacing cougar eyes come into focus. Waiting. I love the artist’s intensity mixed with playfulness in his storytelling that comes through in narration and skillful engraving techniques.
View work here.
Juan Alcázar Méndez, El Camino de la Vaca
Recommended by Paige:
(Collections Manager / Marketing Coordinator)

Juan Alcázar Méndez, El Camino de la Vaca. Aquatint.
For me, 'El Camino de la Vaca' (The Cow's Path/Trail) is a 'why not'? type of piece. It has a simple joy for joy's sake. Of course, there is intention and artistry, like the beautiful ink textures, patterns, and perspective. But at this moment I appreciate his choice to create an uncomplicated, sweet scene. The grass forms a sort of red carpet for the underappreciated cow. We can smile just because.
View work here.
Shigeki Tomura, A Wind
Recommended by Rebecca:
(Gallery Associate)

Shigeki Tomura, A Wind. Drypoint with chîne-collé.
Tomura's simple, beautiful drypoint is reminiscent of Rembrandt's depiction of leaves and trees. Tomura captures lively nature with minimal details. The image is barely there. Just a few light strokes for the grass, gentle texture in the leaves and clean lines for the trunks. Tomura leaves most of the sheet blank to focus on the thing you can't see: the wind.
View work here.
View all Staff Recommendations here.