ARTIST STATEMENT
My work ranges from simple mediations on nature and quiet contemplation of moments in time, to commentary on a range of contemporary social, political and cultural issues. Each piece is fueled by the images, methods and the intrinsic meaning of the materials I choose to create it. The content, materials and techniques I use vary, but a purposeful methodology with deliberate consideration of every element, can be found in all of my work. It’s executed with a high regard for craftsmanship, and joy that comes from puzzling out ways to transform these disparate collections of things into cohesive compositions.
The pieces I submitted for this show were constructed almost entirely from personal and household items that belonged to my maternal grandmother. She is featured in the photographs used on the cast iron skillets in the piece, Antonina, Antoinette, Nancy, that was accepted for this exhibition. The title of the piece refers to the evolution of her name as she assimilated into American culture after emigrating from Sicily with her family when she was a teen. Nana was a stoic powerhouse, and loving matriarch of the family. She was a role model and mentor in all things domestic, teaching me skills I use to this day, not only for their intended purpose but throughout my studio practice. Though she was relegated to the confines of domesticity by the time and place in which she lived, the expertise and the pride she took in her work, taught me to appreciate my opportunities; to do the very best I can, regardless of what I endeavor. She is an immense part of the woman and artist I am today. It was an honor to celebrate her in these works.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Liz Barick Fall works in photography, mixed media assemblage and installation, utilizing her extensive collection of materials and photographs. Inspired by the intent observation of her environment and the objects within it, and guided by the lived experience of contemporary social challenges, she explores themes of nature, loss, nostalgia, memory, growth/decay, tension/harmony, climate change and patriarchal oppression.
A lifelong resident of Michigan, Liz works and lives in Ann Arbor. She holds a BFA from the University of Michigan and an MFA in Metalsmithing from Cranbrook Academy of Art. She taught Metalwork and Jewelry Design at The University of Michigan and Adrian College, and 2D and 3D Design at Washtenaw Community College. She launched and ran her own line of jewelry and home & garden accessories businesses. Liz has shown her work in numerous group, invitational and solo shows regionally and nationally. Her work has also been included in Create!, I Like Your Work, and New Visionary magazines and can be found in private collections in the US and Europe. In addition to practicing and exhibiting her work, Liz is the Founder and Director of trustArt studios and Barickuda Gallery, an artists’ workspace and gallery in Ann Arbor, which she founded in 2012 to develop opportunities for creative collaboration in her community.
© Liz Barick Fall