Graci Gallery's latest exhibit Corvus Corax aims to be a captivating exploration of the world of blackbirds, crows, and ravens. Inspired by these often misunderstood creatures, the exhibit runs from September 1st to October 6th and features the invitational exhibit of local artists Emerson Graves, Lindsey Heiden, John Hubbard, Ronna Katz, Patrick Dragon, and gallery owner Joseph Graci.
Emerson Graves, the owner and designer of Adorned Smithing Co., played a pivotal role in inspiring and curating the exhibit. Emerson's journey began in 2020 when she adopted chickens from a neighbor. This simple act set off a chain of events that led to a fascinating relationship with the crows in her backyard. As she cared for her chickens, she noticed that the crows began to visit, often leaving behind small trinkets like pieces of glass, marbles, and buttons in exchange for the food she left out. This unique "cultural exchange" with nature sparked the idea for the exhibit.
The title Corvus Corax reflects the scientific name for the common raven, symbolizing the exhibit's deep connection to these intelligent birds. Graves' work for the show includes jewelry pieces crafted from the very trinkets the crows left behind, combining sterling silver and 14-karat gold. The dark tones of the silver contrast with the bright gold, mirroring the striking contrast Graves observed between the crows' gifts and the environment where she found them. Among her creations are two necklaces, a ring featuring a marble encased in a kinetic setting, and a pair of earrings that evoke the Victorian Memento mori style.
Graves sees this exhibit as a way to highlight the intelligence and uniqueness of corvids, birds often dismissed as scavengers or pests. Through her work, she hopes to draw attention to the narratives these birds offer and encourage viewers to appreciate them in a new light. The collaborative nature of the exhibit means that each artist brings their own interpretation of what these birds symbolize, offering a rich and varied exploration of their significance.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Emerson about the Corvus Corax exhibition:
Visitors can view the exhibit at Graci Gallery from September 1st through October 6th. For more information about Emerson Graves and her work, visit her website at adornsmithingco.com or follow her on Instagram @adornsmithingco.
Visit gracigallery.com for more information.
