Saltern of Halophiles / by Susan Madacsi

Earlier this year the Renwick Gallery Store reached out to me about the possibility of featuring my work in the store as an extension of a special exhibition, and first retrospective of June Schwarcz. The store celebrates the Renwick’s historic building and contemporary collection, often featuring an assortment of artisan-made items inspired by current exhibitions and I am excited and honored to be featured as part of this exhibition. 

I sense a connection between my work and Schwarcz’s, as well as her ability to develop new processes and incorporate unconventional influences. My process explores texture and reconsiders the traditional treatment of material in blacksmithing, and my latest artworks peruse the diversity of color found in hot springs and saline saturated bodies of water. Research into these liquid bodies has influenced me in new ways of employing color and I find the results exciting and beautiful. 

If you’re in D.C. this summer, the exhibition is on view at the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum from March 10 to Aug. 27.