Binding Ties Lookbook

During her 2023 artist residency at Park Towne Place, Philadelphia-based artist Michelle Marcuse created a new body of work, resulting in this exhibition, aptly titled Binding Ties.

Originating from South Africa, Marcuse’s studio practice investigates the concept of our intricate relationship between identity, history, and our shared human experience amidst a “melting pot” of cultures. With an ever-curious exploration, Marcuse utilized wire, string, and raffia to create the included works. Binding Ties pushes the boundaries of her creative practice as she interweaves traditional craft techniques with her aesthetic sensibilities.

Each meticulously crafted composition serves as a conduit for unearthing the interconnectedness of our humanity. In an era defined by increasing divisions, Marcuse’s artistic journey reevaluates the importance of art in fostering empathy as she reflects on her own heritage and the power of art to transcend time and place.

Mountain Logic Raffia, string, acrylic paint, wire 52 x 15.5” $5,000 Previous page: (Detail) Body blend

Binding Ties

Michelle Marcuse Artist Studio Gallery, Park Towne Place July 14th - September 25th, 2023

Raising the Twilight Raffia, string, chalks, acrylic paint, wire 13 x 34” $3,500

Study for Crossing Raffia, string, wire 21 x 38” $2,800

foreground Containing background Garden under a Fairytale

Garden under a Fairytale Raffia, string, chalks, paint, wire, paper 58 x 40” $4,500 Reception view at Marcuse's Park Towne Place studio

Details Mapburst Acrylic paint, graphite, chalks, paper, cardboard 60 x 72” $7,000

Reception view at Marcuse's Park Towne Place studio

Body blend String, acrylic paint, wire, paper 56 x 42” $3,500

About the Artist Michelle Marcuse (South Africa) holds a Bachelor of Design from the Shenkar College of Engineering and Design (Israel) and a Bachelor of Fine Art from the Tyler School of Art (Philadelphia, PA, USA). Marcuse has exhibited widely internationally and here in Philadelphia. She currently works and resides in Fishtown, Philadelphia.

Following page: foreground (detail) Mountain Logic

Marcuse's studio at Park Towne Place

background Body blend

1400 N. American Street, Suite 314 Philadelphia, PA (215) 235.3405 www.inliquid.org

All works are available for purchase on Artsy