A Must See: Adam Pogue and Martino Gamper at Blunk Space
Author:Abigail StoneHead to Point Reyes Station to see a new exhibition from Martino Gamper and Adam Pogue, at Blunk Space, presented by Blunk Space and the JB Blunk Estate and on view now through December 3rd
The gallery—and research center—is dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of Northern California sculptor, JB Blunk. Though Blunk primarily worked in wood and clay, his work was influenced by his close associations with ceramicist Laura Andreson, Japanense potters Kitajoi Rosanjin and Kanesige Toyo, and artist Isamu Noguchi. His pieces, which also included ceramics, furniture and installations, were created by working directly with the material without the use of pre-conceived sketches or ideas, allowing the material to govern the results.
Blunk Space continues this legacy of intuition and of connection, serving as a platform for contemporary and historical art and design influenced by Blunk’s practice, linking the past and the present and enabling an ongoing dialogue that explores questions of creative legacy and influence. Exhibiting artists are invited to engage with Blunk’s work and legacy through a variety of opportunities, including accessing the estate’s extensive archive and permanent collection, and visiting his iconic handmade home. Both Gamper and Pogure are continually inspired and informed by Blunk’s work, especially his intuitive process and use of salvaged materials.
London-based Italian-born designer Martino Gamper is currently in residence at the Blunk House. His work for the show, produced from salvaged lumber courtesy of local wood legend, Evan Shively, consists of cutting boards, mirrors and a series of benches that serve as platforms for Pogue’s textile work. Created in the spirt of Blunk, his pieces also conjure up shades of his own 100 Chairs in 100 Days, a project which involved collecting discarded chairs on the streets of London and making one new chair each day from the old.
London-based textile artist Adam Pogue began his career working in apparel and has since created his own textile applique language. While drawn from traditional quilting techniques found throughout the world, his pieces, which employ hand stitched details, unusual colors, shapes and materials, are primarily inspired by bojagi, traditional Korean wrapping cloths. For the show, he’s created a large-scale hanging screen, an assortment of sculptural cushions, and two stuffed chairs with fabric upcycled from the L.A. fashion district.
Both exhibitions are part of the increasingly ambitious exhibition program spearheaded by Mariah Nielson, Blunk’s daughter, an architect and curator who has taken over stewardship of her father’s foundation, house and legacy. Blunk Space, 11101 CA-1, #105, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956. Open Friday–Sunday, 11am–5pm, or by appointment by emailing contact@jbblunk.com to book. (All photos courtesy of Blunk Space)
