"Metropolis and Nature: Stories in Clay" by Andrew N. Fitzsimmons
An exhibition exploring stories of the past and future
Opens: March 7, 2024
Member Opening on March 7
“Metropolis and Nature: Stories in Clay” by Andrew N. Fitzsimmons explores the complicated stories that come from our past and frame our future.
Though an extensive collection of busts and other ceramic art, Andrew takes us through the futuristic city of “Metropolis,” a bustling and dangerous environment that serves to warn us about our possible future. Throughout the journey, Andrew also incorporates some of Nature’s most promenade folklore figures, mixed with some of his science fiction heroes.
The “Metropolis” series is based on the 1927 German silent film of the same name.
Andrew Fitzsimmons Artist Statement:
“I have taught ceramics and sculpture for the last twenty-five years. Currently I teach locally at Chenango Valley High School. For thirteen years previously, I was an adjunct Instructor of Art at SUNY Broome in Binghamton, New York. I received my BFA in Graphic Design, my MA in Ceramics and Sculpture, and my MAT in Art Education from SUNY Oswego. I have lived in Owego, NY since 2009, creating works for exhibitions, commissions, and sales. Within my work I am always evolving, experimenting, and exploring new ways to create a visual impact. My current work explores the human form through the lens of storytelling. The work that defines this show is utilizing the mythos of each story; allowing the textures, colors, and shapes to define the meaning of the work. Each piece is unique in appearance but is part of an overall series of works. I find creating a series of works allows the individuality of each piece to stand alone through its uniqueness and being able to merge with other works, enhancing the work’s meaning. The thrown clay works tend to be altered with additional found objects added specifically designed to interact within the theme of the works. My work blends the material glazes, wood, stains, paints, wax patinas, and found objects to enhance the concepts of the work. As an artist, I am on the perpetual journey
within my work; trying to discover new themes, meanings, and imagery to create. The goal of my current work is to embrace the viewer and the moments they spend
with the work, finding meaning from the visual storytelling… being present within the work and within the moment.”
