Monica and Matthew Furmanski

Atkinson Gallery is pleased to announce its inaugural exhibition for the 2007-8 season, a dynamic show by Monica Furmanski and Matthew Furmanski.  These southern California artists use new media and an array of materials to create their engaging artworks.  Ms. Furmanski will do a site specific photographic installation while Mr. Furmanski will exhibit a range of work from digital imagery to steel sculptures and furniture. 

Mr. Furmanski is Assistant Professor of Art, Sculpture, California State University Channel Islands Camarillo. Ms. Furmanski teaches at Ventura College and has been a studio assistant for acclaimed artist John Baldessari. Both have MFA degrees from Claremont University. 

About her work Ms. Furmanski writes, “My work can be seen as part of the recent revival of photography through the device of installation. In my installation photographs are no longer mere images or objects on the wall. The walls instead are expanded and opened up, causing the viewer to interact with the images three-dimensionally. This activates the standard viewer/image relationship, extending the possibilities of photography beyond its traditional application. I have turned photography into an immersive experience that viewers must actively participate in”.  

Mr. Furmanski says, concerning his work, “Part of the reason I feel so passionately about sculpture as a medium, is because of its diversity. I am interested in it as a time based medium, as well as an object based medium. Some of my work has
ventured into the public realm, as well as the computer and digital realm. I am interested in its full potential, not just its specialized focus”.  

The Furmanskis broaden traditional notions of sculpture, photography and design. Their fresh, progressive vision will create a visually and conceptually stimulating exhibition at the Atkinson Gallery.  


 www.matthewfurmanski.com          www.monicafurmanski.com