Many years ago, I saw multimedia artist Shawn Turner’s work at an Isle of Hope art show and have been enraptured by his creativity since. The maker of fantastical creatures of every kind, he is turning his attention to magical monsters and creatures of the deep in a solo show entitled Ballad of the Undertow opening March 10 at 208 Wine Bar on Factor’s Walk.
“I’ve always liked fabric,” Turner tells me in his cozy Ardsley Park home. “I like the tactile textures, the array of colors. In a way it is easier than painting because the fabric is already created, and I just start mashing it back together to make it something new and different.”
We are surrounded by his extensive art collection that is interspersed with his own fabric creations – one-eyed monsters, horses with horns, lamps with beautifully textured and fringed shades, armchairs and footstools upholstered in a crazy patchworked mishmash of beautiful materials. My favorites may be the tapestry cups and saucers adorning his mantelpiece which resemble miniature Claes Oldenburg soft sculptures for a Mad Hatter’s tea party. It is an eclectic and colorful feast for the eyes…