KC Gallery shows ‘Vessel Interpreted’

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DAILY CHRONICLE

The Kishwaukee College Art Gallery is holding an exhibition of two artists’ work that together form a unique show, “The Vessel Interpreted.”

The exhibition runs through Oct. 29. Gallery hours are noon-2:45 p.m. Mondays; 4-9 p.m. Tuesdays; 1-9 p.m.Wednesdays; 9 a.m.-noon and 4-9 p.m. Thursdays; and noon-3 p.m.  Fridays. The Kishwaukee College Art Gallery is free and open to the public.

Michael J. Gesiakowski and Rebecca Eisele-Gesiakowski are artists in very different mediums whose work, when placed side-by-side, are true representations of “The Vessel Interpreted.” According to the duo, the collection of their works shows the vessel in both its literal, functional meaning as well as more abstract, figurative interpretation.

Michael works in ceramics, using both wood-fired and soda-fired kilns to produce unique and unexpected results.

“My artwork is based in functional pottery; because of this my work shows a more literal approach to the definition of the vessel,” Michael said in a news release. “To me, the vessel is any item to which food or drink can be presented to its intended audience.”

Rebecca is a landscape designer and fiber artist, using plant fiber that she sees in divergent ways: what makes a vine a nuisance in the garden also makes it an ideal medium for her art work – creating woven pods.

“I connect the vessel with its biological form and function ... as a uniquely female,” Rebecca said in the release. “I also appreciate the craftwork that has been primarily seen as women’s work throughout the ages. The basket-making techniques I use are a nod to these traditional processes.”

The juxtaposition of Michael’s functional ceramics with Rebecca’s more symbolic pods creates a thoughtful interpretation of ‘vessel.’

“I believe both of our work speaks to the home and family, respecting the traditions of so many who have come before us,” Rebecca said.

For more information on “The Vessel Interpreted,” call the Kishwaukee College Art Gallery at 815-825-2086, ext. 5610.