The Bristol Art Museum announces an afternoon of film screenings and a book launch on Sun., Jan. 19, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Museum, 10 Wardwell Street. The screenings are offered in conjunction with the Museum’s current exhibit, Parallel Threads: Entangled Ends, which explores the complex relationships between textiles, culture, and history through art. Admission is free with a suggested donation. The panel discussion is $5 for members, $10 for non-members.  

“The screenings and book launch will include riveting discussions with the filmmakers and contributors, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of textiles and their role in influencing culture and history,” said Mary Dondero, Museum curator and board member. “

The films that will be screened include: 

Evolutionary Threads, Directed by Alexander Spiess
Documentary filmmaker Spiess of Bend, Oregon, collaborates with Rhode Island artist Deborah Baronas to examine the enduring connection between textiles and human evolution. The film highlights Baronas’s artistic exploration of industrial and cultural narratives
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The Fabric of War: Why Wool?, Directed by Trish FitzSimons
Brisbane-based documentary filmmaker and social historian FitzSimons collaborates with Cranston-based curator and historian Madelyn Shaw to explore the historical role of wool in wartime economies and strategies. This compelling documentary reveals how a simple fabric played a critical role in shaping history.

Australian Artist Interviews, Directed by Janis Hanley
Australian filmmaker Hanley brings audiences into the studios of contemporary Australian textile artists, showcasing their creative processes and perspectives on the evolving role of textiles in art and society.
The event will also feature the launch of a book,

Fleeced: Unraveling the History of Wool and War by FitzSimons and Madelyn Shaw, which provides an exclusive preview of their upcoming book, set to be released in May 2025. Fleeced explores the intersections of textiles, economics, and global conflict, offering a richly woven narrative that spans centuries.
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Currently on view at the Bristol Art Museum, Parallel Threads: Entangled Ends explores the intricate connections between textile art and global narratives. Featuring works from an international roster of artists, the exhibit examines how textiles weave together personal stories, historical events, and cultural traditions. Through various media, from traditional weaving to contemporary installations, the exhibit underscores the enduring relevance of textiles in art and society. The exhibit is on view until Sun., Jan. 26, 2025. 

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Bristol Art Museum Presents an Exclusive Lecture and Workshop by Quantum Wei​

BRISTOL, Rhode Island – The Bristol Art Museum announces an evening exploring the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi on Thurs., Oct. 3, from 7 to 8 p.m. featuring a lecture titled "Kintsugi: History, Technique and Culture" by Quantum Wei at the Museum, 10 Wardwell St. Wei will also offer a workshop, Intro. to Kinstugi on Sat. Oct. 5 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Kintsugi, translating to "golden joinery," is a revered Japanese tradition of pottery repair that transforms broken ceramics into works of art. Rather than concealing the fractures, Kintsugi highlights them using lacquer-based adhesives and metallic powders, celebrating the object's history and imperfections. This philosophy embodies the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, finding beauty in imperfection and transience. Register for the lecture by emailing [email protected]. The lecture admission is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Cash at the door is preferred.

Those interested in enrolling in the workshop should visit the Museum's website. This is a ‘Bring Your Own Pottery’ to repair workshop. Participants are asked to bring broken pottery, seven pieces or fewer, to provide ample time to fix the piece.

In his lecture, Wei will explore the rich history of Kintsugi, demonstrating both traditional and modern techniques. Traditionally, Kintsugi employs urushi lacquer, which is derived from the sap of lacquer trees native to Japan and China. This natural adhesive has been a cornerstone of Japanese craftsmanship for millennia, prized for its durability and glossy finish. However, the traditional method is time-intensive and poses health risks due to urushi’s allergenic properties.

In his workshop, Wei will also showcase a contemporary approach using quick-setting epoxy and liquid-metal leaf, allowing for quicker and safer repairs without sacrificing aesthetic integrity. Attendees will gain insights into the meticulous process of Kintsugi, from initial repair to the final polish, and understand how this art form reflects deeper cultural values.

Wei's journey with Kintsugi began in 2021 after he accidentally broke an antique Apollo landing plate intended as a gift. Refusing to discard the cherished piece, Wei taught himself epoxy-based Kintsugi through online resources. His passion led him to explore traditional lacquer techniques, culminating in his travels to Japan to study under Kintsugi master David Pike in Nara. Since 2023, Wei has shared his expertise through classes and continues to refine his craft.

The Bristol Art Museum announces an Artist Talk featuring artists from its current exhibit, Look Harder, See More, on Sun., Sept. 8, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Museum, 10 Wardwell St. The discussion is open to the public. Museum curator and board member Mary Dondero will moderate the discussion.

The talk will feature a distinguished panel of artists in Look Harder, See More, including Elizabeth de Bethune, Stephen Fisher, M. Benjamin Herndon, Rebecca Hutchinson, Denis Leonti, Jesse Thompson, Christopher Terry, and Gilbert Travers. These artists, each with a unique vision and style, will discuss the inspiration behind their works, the techniques they employ, and the stories that inspire their creativity.

“Our latest exhibit, Look Harder, See More, implores the artists and observer to ask fundamental questions such as what does it mean to look harder and see more in art," said Dondero. “This query will provide each artist the opportunity to share their interpretation and set the tone for the discussion. The discussion will also delve into the various techniques the artists used and how these approaches encourage deeper observation. As the moderator, I will also ask each artist about their inspiration.”
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Look Harder, See More is an exhibit that challenges viewers to explore art from new and unexpected perspectives. The Artist Talk offers an opportunity to hear directly from the creators themselves, providing insights into their processes and the deeper meanings behind their pieces. Artists, art enthusiasts, and those curious about the creative process will enrich one’s experience of the exhibit.

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The Bristol Art Museum announces its latest exhibit, "Look Harder, See More," which opens on Sun., Jul. 28 and will be on view until Sat., Sept. 14, Thursday through Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. An artist’s reception will be held on Sun. Jul. 28th from 2 to 4 p.m.

In the realm of hyper-realism, artists meticulously render scenes and subjects with observational precision, often capturing moments where individuals engage with art itself. In contrast, abstract minimalism strips away extraneous elements to distill essence and evoke contemplation. Figurative works, meanwhile, offer glimpses into the human experience, including scenes where people interact with and reflect on art.

“Look Harder, See More’ invites viewers to embark on a journey of discovery,” said Exhibit Curator and Museum Board member Mary Dondero. “In a society dominated by quick looks and superficial interpretations, this exhibition encourages deeper engagement with art. From hyper-realistic intricacies that demand close scrutiny to minimalist forms that challenge conventional perception, Look Harder, See More urges audiences to transcend the obvious and uncover the hidden depths of artistic expression.

“Within the varied approaches by each artist lies a common thread: the power of art to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and ignite imagination,” added Dondero. “As visitors navigate this exhibition, they are encouraged to linger, explore, and allow themselves to be captivated by the stories woven into each artwork. Look Harder, See More aims to inspire curiosity, provoke contemplation, and awaken a deeper appreciation for the power of art.”

The exhibit features the work of renowned artists Elizabeth de Bethune, Stephen Fisher, M. Benjamin Herndon, Rebecca Hutchinson, Denis Leonti, Christopher T. Terry, Jesse Thompson, and Gilbert Travers.
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For more information, please visit www.bristolartmuseum.org. 

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