Bounded: explorations of line, shape, and taking up space in stained glass

Liberty Arts Presents: Works by Holly Harris

In stained glass, compositions are composed of two primary elements: colored shapes and lead lines. Bounded explores the interaction between the two, questioning whether shapes defines boundary lines or if boundaries define shape, and metaphorically what it means to take up space.

The exhibition centers on Linger and Rise, a series of betta fish rendered in glass. Bettas are creatures of beauty and volition: territorial, expressive, unapologetic about occupying their water. The series arose from Harris's need to claim and occupy her own space without apology. Collectively, the bettas, striking poses both sharp and sinuous, capture a facet of her journey in hundreds of individual pieces of hand-blown glass.

Around and between the betta collection, the show ranges through experiments at the edges of the medium: glass paired with fiber, hand etched surfaces, and wire-entwined sculptural ginkgo forms. These final pieces rise from a desire to create in glass without the necessity of shaping each piece into perfect harmony with its neighbor. By moving into three dimensions and removing adjacency, each leaf is allowed to be the shape that pleases the artist most without compromise.

Presented in the late afternoon summer sun, the collection is sure to dazzle.

The event is free and open to the public. Register to attend on Eventbrite to let us know you're coming!