Vortexhibition Polyphonica

Beginning in July 2010, the Henry presents the third installment of the lively collection exhibition experiment Vortexhibition Polyphonica. The concept behind Vortexhibition Polyphonica emphasizes three dynamic ideas. Different voices “intervene” or add new points of view to the exhibition at periodic intervals. Surprising or unexpected, as well as unknown, works from the permanent collections are featured. The guiding principle is uncovering relationships between the works of art themselves rather than explicating information or theoretical concepts. Opus I and II took the shape of a “call and response” between Associate Curator Sara Krajewski and Chief Curator Elizabeth Brown. Sara’s initial exhibition created groupings around significant works of art; Liz’s response built upon those groups intuitively, emphasizing new viewing experiences by changing configurations within the gallery. Opus III continues to explore the rich relationships that can arise between objects and ideas as it blends the first two versions with a range of newly installed art works. Echoes of the previous iterations form the constant thread that the new choices resonate with. This time the reshuffling is accompanied by keywords Sara has selected and presented graphically on the exhibition walls. These evocative words provide loose titles for zones in the show — emphasizing the formal aspects of certain works, drawing attention to the play off functionality for others, and highlighting the funky nature of ceramics and other works.

Lend your voice, learn more, and ask questions on the Vortexhibition Polyphonica Creative Commons site.