Artist Melissa Vogley Woods Showcases “When the Earth Bends We Bend” at Brandt Gallery
Artist Melissa Vogley Woods is exhibiting "When the Earth Bends We Bend" at Brandt Gallery, showcasing her work with scagliola, a baroque-era composite plaster that mimics marble. The exhibition, which took over 15 years to develop, features sculptures inspired by…
Columbus, OH, September 9, 2026 — The Brandt Gallery is currently hosting “When the Earth Bends We Bend,” an exhibition by artist Melissa Vogley Woods. This showcase highlights Woods’ extensive exploration and utilization of scagliola, a composite plaster technique dating back to the baroque era, which is adept at emulating the appearance of marble.
The development of the works featured in “When the Earth Bends We Bend” spanned more than 15 years, reflecting a deep commitment to the material and its potential. Woods’ sculptures in this exhibition draw inspiration from the vast timescales of geological processes and are informed by her significant research and hands-on experimentation with scagliola.
Scagliola, a labor-intensive craft, allows artists to create intricate forms and finishes that closely resemble natural stone, offering a unique medium for contemporary artistic expression. The exhibition at Brandt Gallery provides a platform for viewers to engage with these complex creations and understand the dedication involved in mastering such a historical technique.
The artist’s engagement with geological time suggests a thematic exploration of deep history, natural processes, and the transformation of materials. The long development period indicates a thorough investigation into the capabilities and aesthetics of scagliola, leading to a body of work that is both materially rich and conceptually driven. The specific details regarding the number of sculptures or the exact timeline of the 15-year development were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Andy Downing on matternews.org, see more information here.
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