2016 – 2017 Artists-in-Residence Exhibition

June 29 – August 4, 2016 | Geoffrey A. Wolpert Gallery

Arrowmont is proud to introduce their 2016 – 2017 Artists-in-Residence, Grant Benoit, Richard W. James, Maia Leppo, Emily Schubert, and Austin Riddle. Showcasing work in a range of media including functional and sculptural ceramics, fiber, mixed media, jewelry and collage, this exhibit features works made by Arrowmont’s five Artists-in-Residence as they begin their 11-month residency. The Artists-in-Residence Program provides early career, self-directed artists time, space and support to experiment and develop a new body of work in a creative community environment. Each year, five artists of different media are selected for the eleven-month program, which begins mid-June and continues through late May of the following year.

Grant Benoit is a mixed media artist interested in narrative, place and memory. He received his MFA in printmaking from Southern Illinois University and his BA from Spring Hill College. Grant utilizes techniques from ceramics, printmaking, and textiles in his installation and sculptural pieces. www.grantbenoit.com

Richard W. James received his MFA in ceramics from the University of Kansas and his BFA from University of Tennessee, Martin. His figurative sculptures explore childhood experiences and psychological narratives by combining clay, found objects and textiles. www.richardwjames.com

Maia Leppo is a metalsmith and jeweler. Maia received her MFA in metals from SUNY New Paltz. Studying first in Biology and Community Health at Tufts University, Maia relates those interests and research into her jewelry and body adornment pieces to question the idea of improvement.  www.maialeppo.com

Austin Riddle recently completed his BFA in ceramics from University of Utah.  He has previously been to Arrowmont as a studio assistant and makes utilitarian clay objects using a variety of construction, decorative, and firing techniques. www.instagram.com/austinriddlepottery

 Emily Schubert graduated from Maryland Institute College of Art with BFA in fiber and textile art. She has spent the past several years studying and working in the art of puppetry and performance. www.emily-schubert.com

Featured piece: Flower Lei, Maia Leppo, Steel, silicone cord, powder coat, monofilament, 2016