exhibitions

for immediate release


“Athenaia”
September 10th - October 16th, 2004

Works by: ALEXIS WEIDIG
opening reception: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18th, 2004; 7-11PM

OVERTONES is pleased to present a solo exhibition of new work by Los Angeles artist Alexis Weidig.

As a melting pot of cultures, the United States - while providing opportunities for many, has had a turbulent time providing understanding and tolerance for all. Nonetheless, the opportunities and the "American Dream" have attracted immigration from all over the planet, even its' smallest and least explored parts. The immigrants carry their culture in their suitcases and in the process of unpacking, a hybrid is born - a fissure of two cultures, the old and the new.

Alexis Weidig's ephemeral installations open a much-needed door into the world of the Albanian Orthodox community residing in the United States. Weidig's iconography, rooted in her Albanian Orthodox heritage, engages with an intricate play of shapes and colors, thus creating a potent stage for storytelling. Rich colors-from royal blue to brilliant gold-reflect the intricately decorative aspects of the Albanian culture and the mysticism of the Orthodox Church through Weidig's use of craft materials such as artificial birds, artificial flowers, sewing appliqu•8s, rhinestones and even furniture pieces and chandeliers.

Weidig's accomplishments as a visual artist, in tandem with her unique cultural perspective, give her work a powerful resonance, ensuing in a suspension of preconceived notions in both art and culture. Her work inspires a thirst for knowledge and discovery, while inviting the viewers to bask in a harmony of rich colors, full textures and pleasing shapes.

Alexis Weidig received her BFA from the University of Southern California, and her MFA from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She has shown widely in Los Angeles, as well as nationally and internationally. Her work was recently selected for an exhibition showcasing upcoming Los Angeles talent at the Scope-LA 2004 art fair.

OVERTONES is a Los Angeles art venue that supports and promotes creative endeavors in all artistic disciplines, with emphasis on the diversity of Los Angeles communities, international collaboration and social responsibility. OVERTONES is dedicated to searching outside the confines of established art institutions and presenting work that has the potential to engage a wide range of audiences.

• Back to Exhibition Photos