CHICAGO—Volume Gallery will debut an exhibition of new works by designer Thaddeus Wolfe, titled: ASSEMBLAGE. Volume Gallery will take over Gallery Two at the Andrew Rafacz Gallery in an ongoing series highlighting work from American contemporary designers. Opening reception December 10th, 4-7 PM.

In his first solo exhibition in Chicago, ASSEMBLAGE showcases Wolfe’s unique works in glass created through a specialized technique, inspired by mineral and crystalline formations.

“I am producing forms that have the appearance of being built up – and are also fractured and coming apart.“

The ASSEMBLAGE series, Wolfe provides a distinct aesthetic link between the state of minerals and observing them in their relation to modernist sculpture and architecture. The angular sides of Wolfe’s creations have the appearance of naturally occurring circumstances of cubic crystallization but represent the careful curation of form.

Originally intending to generate the surfaces of pyrite rendered in glass, Wolfe devised his own system for synthesizing the naturally occurring form. The forms are first constructed in wax, clay and foam. The initial form is then dug out of the mold leaving a cavity into which the glass will be blown. The piece is then cooled slowly in a kiln, and when at room temperature the mold is cut away and discarded. The resulting glass form is then cleaned, cut and polished, using diamond tools. This type of fabrication makes each vessel a unique form.

The process of building up and breaking down can be seen in the erosive qualities that are evident in each finished piece. At first glance the collection of thirty pieces in ASSEMBLAGE reflect a material driven exploration in fabrication to mimic natural phenomenon, however the results are greater than the sum of their parts. Wolfe’s creations have a stunning visual complexity combined with an organic subtleness.

Thaddeus Wolfe:
Thaddeus Wolfe (b.1979) studied art and design with a focus in glass at the The Cleveland Institute of Art where he received a BFA in 2002. He has held artist residencies at Pilchuck Glass School, The Creative Glass Center of America in New Jersey and the Tacoma Glass Museum. His work has been exhibited in various group shows in New York at Heller Gallery, Matter and Still House. Thaddeus lives and works in Brooklyn, NY.

Volume Gallery Volume Gallery is an event-based gallery with a specific focus on American design, particularly emerging contemporary designers. Founded by Claire Warner and Sam Vinz, the Volume Gallery releases editions, publications and exhibits that showcase the work of American designers to regional, national and international audiences. Volume Gallery provides a platform for emerging American designers to engage with an international audience.

Visit www.wvvolumes.com for information and upcoming events.
For additional information and picture inquires: Sam Vinz T 414 841 3003 E sam@wvvolumes.com

Exhibition Location: 835 West Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL Hours: December 10th – January 21, 2012 11 AM – 6 PM, Tuesday – Saturday

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Tags: Andrew Rafacz Gallery, Thaddeus Wolfe