As part of The United Colors of Robert Earl Paige, the Hyde Park Art Center presents this companion exhibition in an adjacent gallery that features the works of local artists Paige identifies as being in his peer-to-peer creative network. The parapluie, or umbrella in French, is how Paige describes the circles of artists that mutually support each other and regularly exchange ideas, skills, solutions, and materials.
Over the years, Paige has amassed a group of makers and friends, who he deeply admires and respects for their commitment to craftsmanship, object invention and advice. This exhibition highlights functional and sculptural artwork selected by Paige and made by artists Lori Bartman, Matty DeVita, Espi Frazier, Malika Jackson, Turtel Onli, Brian Parris, Tony Smith, Dorian Sylvain, and Bernard Williams.
The idea of the parapluie is inspired by the Omega Workshops (London 1913-1919), an applied arts company that sold objects and fabrics by artists and designers to erase boundaries between decorative art and fine art with a modernist aesthetic. In conjunction with his solo exhibition, Paige invited these artists to present their work that relates to his enthusiasm for color, pattern, and purpose-driven design. There is no hierarchy between art, craft, design and function in this exhibition. Instead, the artists included in Parapluie uphold the idea that beauty is all around us and should be accessible to everyone.
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An initiative of the Terra Foundation for American Art in partnership with artists and organizations across the city, Art Design Chicago is a series of events and exhibitions that highlight the city’s artistic heritage and creative communities.
