no. 5 : Stairing Contest Exhibit by Katie Hudnall and Tom Loeser: Abel Contemporary Gallery

These two accomplished woodworkers, Katie Hudnall, the current head of the Woodworking and Furniture Department at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and Tom Loeser, the former head of the same department, have brought their talents together for a second time in our no. 5 Gallery. Both artists draw inspiration from how humans interact with the constructed world, often adapting familiar structures such as staircases into versatile seating areas, bringing a sense of play to each piece.  

Hudnall creates inviting play and exploration through her narrative furniture-like sculptures. Her use of found and discarded materials reveals the intuitive process she uses when crafting these complex structures. Each piece, while appearing precarious and fragile, invites intimate exploration. This closer inspection rewards the viewer through delightful insights into quietly absurd moments of joy. Hudnall received her BFA in Sculpture from Corcoran College of Art and Design and her MFA from Virginia Commonwealth University in Furniture Design and Woodworking. 

Loeser’s work, which delves into unconventional furniture forms and encourages imaginative and playful interactions, is distinct in its use of carving and bright colors. Each piece draws from a vast knowledge of the history of art and design, while bringing new ways of thinking about how an object is used. This approach inspires creativity and highlights the distinction between functional and aesthetic considerations. Loeser holds a BA from Haverford College, a BFA from Boston University, and an MFA from the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. He has received many prestigious grants and awards, including four Visual Artist Fellowship Grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. 

Opening Reception
Friday September 19, 5 – 8pm

Shows Open Online Saturday, September 20 at 10 am CDT