Follow Changes and Connections through Art Ramble 2023 “Geo-Metric” in Concord

‘Art Ramble is an annual, temporary exhibition in the Hapgood Wright Town Forest in Concord, MA, a collaboration of The Umbrella Art Center and Concord’s Division of Natural Resources (CDNR).’ (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023) September 1 – November 19, Curated by Stephanie Marlin-Curiel

**Laurie Bogdan and Fran Sharp, FLUCTUATION**

After one visit in September so far, I hope to return several more times till the exhibit ends November 19. Meanwhile this post* offers quotes, links, and photos that should help you decide to explore Art Ramble now, in person or on screen! ( *part 1 with six of the twelve artworks) (part 2 with six more, coming soon)

This excerpt about the theme for 2023 is a reference for quotes from statements by the artists, included with their artwork responding to the theme. ‘Geo-Metric literally means Earth measurement. While traditionally, basic geometry relies on axioms used to measure fixed shapes and construct solid objects that will stand the test of time,“Geo-Metric” here refers to the ability to measure change. Our planet is constantly in motion and changes with exposure to light, temperature, weather, human intervention and climate change.” (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)

**Rob Greene, LOOP ( at Umbrella Arts)**

Part 1: Rob Greene, Liz Helfer, Ellen Schön, Laurie Bogdan, Fran Sharp, Susan Arthur

Rob Greene

13.7.6.28 Periodical (2023) Bamboo, electric sensors, electrical wire and speakers “This interactive installation is actually a measurable graph. Its elevation, length, numbers, and cross sections, all represent the lifecycle of a Periodical Cicada, the cicada that comes around once every 13 years. The graph is split in two, so the viewer can walk through and become witness to the many cross sections and patterns within the sculpture.”(quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)

Loop (2013) teak, pine, mahogany’; “Geometry is everywhere in nature. From dandelions to honeycombs, we don’t need to look far to ﬁnd measurable beauty. Loop is a sculpture representing that measurable beauty.” ( outside Umbrella Arts Center, 40 Stow Street) (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)

Liz Helfer

Blinkah 2 (2020) Windshield glass, steel, vinyl wrap; “Blinkah 2 is the second iteration of an installation created in response to our casual destruction of life around us. The broken windshield glass is both reflective and transparent, revealing ghostlike animal silhouettes framed in geometric forms.” (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)

Laurie Bogdan and Fran Sharp

Fluctuation (2023) Fused plastic, thread, wood; “Fluctuation shows the daily low and high temperatures over a recent 12-month period in Boston. 2022 was the sixth warmest year in Massachusetts since 1895. This piece is topped with waves representing rising sea levels, a result of human-caused global warming. You can make a difference. ACT NOW.” (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)

Ellen Schön

Blue Spiral (2022) 3D printed stoneware; “Physically structured with necks, shoulders, bellies, and feet, ceramic vessels can evoke the gesture and anthropomorphized stance of the human figure. They reveal deep aspects of human experience and of the natural world. My newest work explores the geometry of 3D clay-printed vessels.” (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)

Susan Arthur

Fungal Flower (2020) Pit fired porcelain stoneware, slate; “My work is constructed from a mixed porcelain and stoneware clay. After bisque firing, I place it in a pit fire with a variety of chemicals. I build imaginary forms from what I observe in the woods that surround me. I am fascinated with the way nature regenerates—fungi, seed pods— all translating some unique, persistent genetic code into form.” (quote from The UMBRELLA, Art Ramble 2023)