Erin Cluley first became acquainted with the work of Austin artist Taylor Barnes when Barnes was a student at the University of North Texas, where she distinguished herself with highly original work that Cluley describes as authentic and deeply moving.
“The one thing that struck me about Taylor’s work when I first met her is the way that she’s working in a variety of media, making these three-dimensional forms, primarily in ceramics and then using them as a reference point with the 2D works,” says Cluley, who will open Barnes’ second exhibition at the Erin Cluley Gallery on April 2. “Holding On to Elsewhere” runs through May 7 and carries with it a catalogue written by Austin curator and writer Phillip Townsend.
“The charcoal on textile works have this dimensionality to them that is really striking,” Cluley says. “Within those formal processes, she’s digging deep into experiences — her own experiences — as a Black female.”
As a result, Cluley calls the work “very personal,” revealing as it does themes of race, identity and social critique.
Details
Taylor Barnes’ “Holding On to Elsewhere” opens with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on April 2 and runs through May 7 at Erin Cluley Gallery, 150 Manufacturing St., Suite 210, in Dallas. Free, erincluley.com. The $30 catalogue is available for purchase.
