in focus
By Lydia Freudenberg
The Show Will Go On The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio showcases artists despite the pandemic
C
entral Ohio understands the importance of keeping art alive, even during a pandemic. Between emergency artists’ grants provided by the Greater Columbus Arts Council and galleries hosting virtual shows, people are rallying together to uphold the arts, including the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio in Lancaster. In May, DACO was set to open 2 + 3 x 18: Diptychs and Triptychs by 18 Contemporary Ohio Artists. As of early May, the exhibit was postponed to June and center staff say it may get pushed back again or become virtual. Regardless, the show will go on. “It is important to support the artists and arts organizations all the time, but especially during times of turmoil,” says Christine Fowler Shearer, curator for 2 + 3 x 18. The exhibit showcases works inspired by ancient diptychs and triptychs, pieces once used to commemorate the victory of a ruler, or for personal or religious reasons. The featured pieces tell personal stories, making for a diverse show. Here’s a glimpse into the creative minds of four featured artists based in central Ohio. Their methods, mediums and styles are different, yet when displayed together, Fowler Shearer promises unity. Julie Abijanac | Textiles and paper sculptures Fourteen years ago, Julie Abijanac was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Her first question wasn’t about cancer treatments though. Instead, she asked what art materials she could still use that wouldn’t compromise her health.
Poumon Noir by Julie Abijanac
“I had to reinvent myself as a maker,” she says. “I’ve been making since I was very young and it’s part of who I am as a person.” Thankfully, working with textiles and Pestilence: Stage I, Stage II and Stage III by Julie Abijanac paper was safe. 16
Abijanac is now cancer free, and her textile and paper sculptures are responses to battling and coping with cancer. She explores other mediums and medical conditions – Pestilence: Stage I, Stage II and Stage III features faux pearls, and Pouwww.pickeringtonmagazine.com
