“Afterbloom”- Claire Elliott’s color whirlwind at One Grand Gallery
On view until October 24th, this show is a celebration of florals in all their forms. Available for purchase are sculptural poppies handmade by Claire, which are shown embedded into platforms that mimic a garden or how one might happen upon the stems.
I felt this show was for the slow ponderers, and for the people that feel the changing of each season deeply. It’s easy to celebrate blooms when it’s spring and summer and everything is in its full glory. Observers with a deep curiosity and appreciation like Claire look for reasons to rejoice with plants in the offseason. After all, it’s all part of growth. This was also a concept Claire explored with her painting series that showed at Never Coffee on Belmont titled “What’s Left on the Stem.”
The combination of paintings with sculptures of what was depicted in the paintings was so whimsical, helping to fully encapsulate an experience with nature.
The poppy sculptures were airbrushed and light to the touch. Some were rattles and had seeds inside. It brought details of the plants to life in an environment where every element was intentional.
Each painting was part of a journey; some with flowers in full bloom and some showcasing the dormant pods. It was as if to communicate that there is intrinsic value in every state, and it is up to the viewer to romanticize and appreciate them all. Definitely make this show part of your fall plans.
