CONTEMPORARY AESTHETIC AND NATURE

Catherine Cross Tsintzos

Celebration, Florida

June 2017

Contemporary Aesthetic and Nature

The grounds and interiors of The Rensing Center display a collection of works by some of America's most collected and well-known American Fine Craft Artists.  When walking the grounds and spending time within the houses and educational buildings at Rensing, the aesthetic is right.
  

Works displayed share examples of contemporary fine craftsmanship in a multitude of mediums.  Rensing buildings and grounds prominently feature ceramic works, including a variety of clays, glazes and firing techniques (both wheel and hand-built), fiber and textile pieces, paintings, photography, prints, social justice pieces, mixed media, sculpture, blacksmith iron and metal work.

  

All share an earthly aesthetic that connects to Rensing’s emphasis on nature, whether one is working in or viewing the gardens and pastures, or simply enjoying them as backdrops to joyful get-togethers with progressive discussions about art and the environment.

The preeminent Artist Residency in South Carolina, on 27 acres, serving up to three Residents at a time, along with community programs.  When the aesthetic is right, magic can happen.  The works displayed at Rensing are ever-changing, but the core of the contemporary craft collection includes pieces dating back to artists working at the beginning of the American Craft Movement, nearing the end of the Black Mountain College reign.

  

Director Ellen Kochansky's work was included in 1993's "The Year of American Craft" by then President Bill Clinton, and was featured with the first White House Collection of American Crafts in 1995. This heritage of American artistry is a constant inspiration due to the contemporary aesthetic and nature. 

The Rensing Center's history is rooted in arts and education.  Artists of all disciplines, writers, musicians and environmentalists from all over the world come here and can immerse themselves in an art history that is visually placed in nature, all in perfect alignment with Rensing's mission and desire to elevate a harmonious experience.

- Catherine Cross Tsintzos, Interdisplinary Artist