A yearlong exploration of LIGHT.

In the year between October 2013 – October 2014 a group of 25 artists, led by Deb Durant, worked to create 50 pieces of artwork all focusing on the concept of LIGHT. This common thread interrelated all of the artwork pieces via each artists’ chosen aspect of light: be it literal, physical, temporal, metaphorical…

The groups’ collective works represented numerous differing media – metalsmithing, lighting, photography, written word, painting, glass, encaustics, ceramics, and textiles. The collaborators were all artists whom Deb had worked with over the past decades.

The goal, simply put: to amass an artistic collection to represent one unique community of artists. This particular compilation stems from the many creative associations formed and developed over the years by Ms. Durant as she explored, struggled with, and forged an artistic career of her own. It’s a revelation of decades of work, in contact with and inspired by other talented artists. It’s also a reflection of the ways in which individuals can deeply affect and mold your own creativity.

The aim of this show was also to mark the celebration of life at 50; a momentous and deeply fruitful time in most artists lives as they shed the insecurities of youth and embrace a sense of growing professional maturity and freedom. Often it marks a time of hitting your stride, an opportunity to sink one’s teeth into the meat of one’s endeavors, prompting a renewed sense of ‘I’m just getting started…’

This project culminated in a month-long gallery show of all 50 pieces exhibited together – in the former locale of North Berkeley’s beloved Black Oak Books, during the month of October 2014 – which coincided with Deb’s 50th birthday.

Welcome to the celebration!