Objects of Origin
by Michael Van Winkle

March 13 - April 3, 2015 Opening Reception: Friday, March 13th 5-8 pm

Michael Van Winkle’s work explores the meaning of common objects, their relationship to abstraction and our collective imagination, through image making. It draws on a wide range of visual impulses. His integrated use of imagery and abstraction creates a flexible realm for interpretation. It encourages deciphering through observation, invention and memory.

In Objects of Origin, Van Winkle expands on his visual interests by responding directly to three objects from the museum’s collection: an anvil, a fan and a needlework sampler. Through exploring these disparate objects Van Winkle creates a series of offspring, which embody change and growth while reflecting their object of origin. The works in this exhibition represent a lineage of continuity and divergence. Shown at left are two works to be featured in the exhibition. In the foreground is Untitled (Anvil No. 1), 2015, acrylic on canvas (11 3/4" x 12 1/2" x 7"). The painting in the background is Untitled, 2015, acrylic on canvas (10" x 8").

The anvil, fan and needlework sampler were chosen for their physical, visual qualities as well as their unique histories and functions in the world. The anvil has a striking, simple form and functioned in shaping metal into objects for use. It was used by several generations of blacksmiths in the Pomeroy family of Northampton. The fan presents a repetition of shapes, soft rounded edges and a constellation of sequins. It is from the mid-1860s and likely belonged to Amelia Clark, a Northampton resident. The needlework sampler, shown at left, is striking for its vibrant colors and the minute geometric shapes which form letters and imagery. Made by eight-year-old Rebecca Barrett in 1794, it served as an exercise in letters, numbers and simple images.

Pomeroy Anvil	1865 Fan donated by Amelia Clark	Sampler

The new works made for this exhibition are not representations of the objects, but are echoes of their forms and responses to their singular histories. Not unlike parents and their children who share specific traits, each constitutes a wholly unique individual with characteristics that differ significantly. Each following generation responds to a slightly broader range of history and deeper lineage. Within each new piece visual and conceptual traits refer to the particulars of the past while being solidly in the present and pointing towards an unknown future.

Her presentation will focus on some of her more interesting and unusual
genealogical research. Free and open to the public. Details