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McMurtrey Gallery is delighted to present an incredible new body of work by sculptor Lauren Levy. In her second solo exhibition at the gallery, Ms. Levy, whose primary materials include buttons and wire, has created work that "is the result of some much-needed time away from the studio." She explains that:
"After working through a block in 2004, I spent the bulk of my day attending to the necessities of running a home and walking my dogs. Many hours were spent watching birds and observing the dramas of their lives. When I increased my productivity I found that the work came naturally and flowed from all the relaxed time spent during the previous year. The complete lack of engagement with current events is a defense mechanism and I think specific to this body of work.”
This newfound sense of ease is apparent in the open and playful nature of her newest sculptures. Unlike the feeling of containment or danger often evoked by her previous work, these pieces, many of which are based on Ms. Levy's signature dress forms, are left open so that the items inside (beaded flowers, cutouts of birds, even a heart-like object) are exposed.
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As with all of Ms. Levy's sculpture, there is an unexpected elegance that is often lacking in such lighthearted work. In addition, it has the unique ability to be both very ordered and structured, and yet still feels a little rough around the edges. Her sculpture is simple, yet obsessive, and exhibits Ms. Levy's indisputable reverence for her materials. Just like each button she uses, each sculpture, even those that start out with the same basic form, is distinctive. Each button has it's specific place, just like each finished sculpture has it's own meaning.
Ms. Levy holds a degree in metalsmithing from Oregon School of Arts and Crafts and a B.F.A. in Art from the University of Texas, Austin. Her sculpture has been included in numerous exhibitions throughout Texas and the United States, including prominent exhibits at the Southwest Craft Center in San Antonio, Texas and at the Dahl Art Center in Rapid City, South Dakota. She lives and works in Austin, Texas.
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 Lauren Levy 2006 Bio
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