"Heightened Realities: The Monotypes of Ruth Weisberg"
2001-04-21 until 2001-06-03
Frye Art Museum
Seattle, WA, USA

Ruth Weisberg is internationally recognized for monotypes, a medium that exists somewhere between painting, drawing, and printmaking. Dean of the School of Fine Arts University of Southern California, Weisberg has shown more than seventy solo and two-person exhibitions and has an additional 160 group shows to her credit. Weisberg's solo exhibition opens at the Frye on April 21 - June 3.

The monotype process involves drawing or painting on a flat surface and then transferring the image by means of pressure onto a sheet of paper. Only one strong impression can be taken. Weisberg uses oil paint and printing ink, applying the media with rollers, rags, and her fingers. The impossibility of duplication thwarted widespread use of monotypes for many years. The experimental and personal nature of the monotype, however, has suited such discerning artists as William Blake, Edgar Degas, John Sloan, Milton Avery-and Ruth Weisberg.

The emphasis on the human figure in Weisberg's monotypes is rooted in classical and Renaissance practice. She transcends her ties with classical tradition by alluding to ephemeral aspects of human existence in subject matter of dreams, fears, relationships, art, history, and myth.

Related Links:

Indepth Arts Resources for the State of Washington

Other Important Exhibitions in Seattle