Gina Klawitter’s sculptures of human figures cocooned in draped fabric are emblematic of body language–particularly its raw, emotional aspect–and the genuine beauty found in our various human forms. Sculptures of metallic and weighted appearance are in actuality, of minimal density. In reality, these makings are composed of hardened fabric, molded around the bodies of Klawitter’s models and then painted and glazed to produce their bronze, copper, or iron-like complexions. The artist’s parents emphasized the importance of social and political awareness all throughout her upbringing, while also ensuring she fully witnessed and experienced diverse cultural settings. These factors combined have culminated into a particular, permanent mindset: the world is made up of all sorts of people, and every one of them brings an essential dimension to our lives. Klawitter is versed in various genres of dance, which has considerably benefited her sense of spatial relations, human form and movement.

Her intent is to awaken common humanity and foster kinship. The development of her artistic career can mainly be accredited to self-exploration. She began as a graphic designer, illustrator and art director, then left the commercial realm in 2003, following her calling to create solely with her hands. From crafting 2D and 3D mixed media works which led to commissions and charitable projects, to co-founding Bereavementartists.com–a national archive of artists who serve people that have experienced loss–a major epiphany finally occurred in 2017. “Deep down, I’ve always thought that I could eventually manifest a new art form that expresses myself inside, and moves others outside,” Klawitter says. “My Figurative Fabric Sculptures is just that.

Artists in this exhibition
Lital Albeldas | Janelle Marie Kelley | Gina Klawitter | Lerone Pieters | Julian McKenney | Wells King | Evan William Plunkett | Stephanie Pitoy | Jennifer Faun Manne | Josee Guitard | Majid Eskandari | Yeonhwa Sung | Christine Iacobuzio-Donahue | Veronika Sekotová