Viola Frey: "The Future of Yesterday"

May 3, 2018—August 18, 2018 | Reception Thursday, May 3rd, 6-8PM

James Harris Gallery is pleased to present our first solo exhibition work by Viola Frey (1933-2004) entitled “The Future of Yesterday.” This influential artist was deeply committed to her art practice for over fifty years and was instrumental in cracking the barrier between craft and fine art.   We are honored to be working with the Artists’ Legacy Foundation who have stewarded Frey’s work and legacy since her death.

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“The Discussion I” 1994
“Untitled (Female Nude with Yellow Bird)” 1990
“Untitled (Figure on Knees with Head Down on Folded Arms)” 1986
“Untitled (Studio Model Series)” 1990
“Untitled (W) Woman in Long Dress” 1995
“Western Civilization Diptych #1” 1997
“Seated Man with a Hand" 1975-1999
"Artist's Mind/Studio/World: Double Silhouette" 1990
"Untitled (Greek Hag, Brown Suited Man)"  1990

Viola Frey

Many people think of Viola Frey as a maker of ceramic objects.  Formerly trained as a painter, she studied with both Richard Diebenkorn and Mark Rothko, Frey’s practice incorporated painting, drawing and even photography.  Frey was a cultural observer and her work reflected how she interpreted the world.   One core theme explored throughout her career was the social commentary on the power structure between male and female and the roles they played during her lifetime. This investigation is prescient today with the continued struggle for equal rights and the upward path to break the glass ceiling.   Her work was strongly influenced by her passion for art history, and her resulting imagery can often be viewed through this lens.