Aldrich Partners with Local Philanthropies to Utilize Exhibition Materials

February 16, 2007

Ridgefield (February 2007).  Wool blankets used by Seneca artist Marie Watt to create a sculpture at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will be distributed to the needy in Fairfield County upon closure of the exhibition No Reservations: Native American History and Culture in Contemporary Art on February 25, 2007.

Aldrich staff, exhibition sponsors, and local philanthropic organizations teamed up to ensure the utilization of art materials for the greater good.  Following the exhibition’s highly-successful and widely-reviewed seven-month run, Watt’s Dwelling, an eight by six by eight foot sculpture comprised of over 1,100 blankets, will be dismantled for allocation.

Blankets have historical and cultural significance in Native American Culture, explained Aldrich exhibitions director Richard Klein. “Marie Watt is a member of the Seneca, one of six tribes that make up the Iroquois Nation. Initially interested in learning about the way blankets celebrate milestones and occasions, connect people, spur memory, and confer warmth and comfort, she began to work with them as materials in her art. Post-exhibition, Watt is thrilled to be able to share in an age-old custom by passing the blankets, and all the tradition and comfort they carry, on to those who can use them most.”

The Aldrich would like to thank Charlie and Sheila Perrin, Tod and Barbara Hamachek, and Henry and Frances Ashforth for their generous support that made the artwork and donation possible. Kathy Kierce of Gütermann of America, Inc. also contributed several hundred high quality spools of thread to the exhibition. Among the organizations accepting blankets are: Caroline House in Bridgeport; Child Guidance Center of Greater Bridgeport; Christian Community Action in South Norwalk; Community Closet sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Eastern Fairfield County in cooperation with Family Services Woodfield; CTE, Inc. in Stamford; Domestic Violence Crisis Center in Stamford and Norwalk; The Center for Women and Families of Eastern Fairfield County in Bridgeport; Shelter for the Homeless in Stamford; and The Women’s Center of Greater Danbury.

Image: Christine McIntire (Domestic Violence Crisis Center) and Richard Klein (Aldrich exhibitions director)