When I came across the work of Mary Button Durell, a San Francisco-based artist, I was instantly drawn in. Her sculptures are otherworldly and beautiful. And I was completely surprised when I found out the simple process she employs to create them. Each is built primarily from just two simple things: tracing paper and wheat paste. The forms are carefully constructed one layer at a time to create rigid, self-supporting structures, which are then attached to one another to create complex, multi-celled systems.
For me, the real beauty in these pieces is the way Durell uses such simple materials to capture light and redirect it into beautiful washes and shadows. The pieces are so colorful, even though (and also because) the use of color is so restrained. I’m really hoping to see these sculptures in person, and it sounds like I might be in luck. Durell will be taking part in a show in August in San Rafael, California. If you’re in the Bay Area, please join me! To read more about Durell’s process and get a glimpse into her workspace, there’s a great interview with her over at In the Make.
{All images: Mary Button Durell}
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Thank you so much Anthology for posting this great article!!!
Mary Button
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