Gallery round Two

Round two. I am in the process of doing gallery visits and writing about them on the blog. This whole virtual world is a little 2D for me so going to all these galleries and actually touching the work is a mind blowing experience to say the least....Thanks again to all the galleries for letting me photograph their spaces and all of the great work!

Soooooo Liz and I took a day trip to Hudson to check out a show and to visit Ornamentum. Ornamentum was founded in 2002 by Stefan Friedemann and wife Laura Lapachin. Ornamentum "gallery represents a collection of pieces of conceptual jewelry. ornamentum gallery focuses on contemporary jewelry designers who are working beyond our traditional understanding of jewelry as ornamental, showcasing pieces that explore sculptural forms, new materials and approaches."via Designboom. The gallery is located on Warren Street which is the main strip in downtown Hudson. Conveniently, Hudson is only an hour from New Paltz. The space is currently undergoing a expansion/renovation which will include a larger gallery space for one of a kind openings.

Ornamentum has a familiar feel where glass topped cases crown pull out drawers that house wonderful rings necklaces and brooches. Above these showcases are backboards for larger necklaces and brooches. Over all the gallery was very clean and perfect for all of the stunning work housed within.

After I introduced myself Stefan started showing us some work. We had a great time touching things, inspecting solder seams, trying pin backs and lifting pieces for weight etc etc etc. I think were were in there for at least 40 minutes just looking prior to touching. Stefan pulled out one of Ted Noten bags, which was really nice to see up close (a lot lighter than I thought). We also saw some of his larger neck pieces (Marble necklace and one made with a small bug collection). I was really captured by Lisa Gralnick's work, her gold brooches and rings specifically. Incredible detail. All of those little facets and cuts, sigh....I don't know how she can do it. Seeing her work makes me feel like I just gorilla fist my way through making. I was also delighted to see Gerd Rothman's finger print series. Stefan was wearing one of his rings. He let us in on the fingerprint making process which is pretty interesting in itself. If you want the scoop you will have to visit the gallery and ask Stefan himself.

Liz and I could have stayed in there all day. I just wanted to say thanks to Stefan for showing us around. I can't wait for the expansion.

We also ate at the Red Dot with Myra and Ken. If you are in Hudson EAT THERE! I had the fish and chips, Liz had the Lamb, Ken had the scallops and Myra had muscles. All GREAT!! We also had some killer coffee and pudding at the end.