Thea Alvin: Pieces of a Whole
Earth artist Thea Alvin was awarded our first Elizabeth C. Hadas Artist-in-the-Forest residency in 2025. Over several weeks during the summer, she created a series of sculptures using materials and forms found in Matsinger Forest, Danville, VT. The resulting installations include a series of woodpile walls with wagon wheel centers that invite viewers to consider their size and permanence among the tall Norway Spruce that had been planted in this corner of the forest. Her oversized stone cairn invites contemplation in an inviting natural gathering space among moss-covered boulders. Her work is transcendent and fixed – playing with light, perspective, shape, and size.
Craig Harrison's photographs of her work capture the changing seasons and transformative nature of these installations among the trees.
In her words:
I try to create engagement by causing you to stop and think, ‘I could do that too’, or ‘how was that done?’ My hope is that you then go do it. Art is meant to be accessible. It is an outlet for each of us to express ourselves.
When I was sitting to listen, The Cathedral of Matsinger Forest asked me to build it an alter, a chapel. This I give you in ‘Pieces of a Whole’. Five large squares of stacked wood around a hoop of steel centered in each. Each square aligned with the others, so that the viewer can peer through them all and see deeply into more forest or themselves. Or you can zoom way back and see the sculpture from the side and create your own optical treasure. Each space between creates its own little chapel, littered with leaves or needles or snow depending on the season.
Join me in this visual odyssey, find your cathedral and worship at some altar. Every step toward beauty is a step toward peace through art.
William Eddy Lecture and Opening Reception: May 1, 6:00 - 7:30 PM @ Catamount Arts