Dallas’ Erin Cluley Gallery is currently hosting an exhibition that puts the spotlight on birds titled “Feathered.” Birds, ancient descendants of dinosaurs, have found themselves at the center of attention recently. During the pandemic, images of these avian creatures unexpectedly perched at feeders or windowsills flooded social media, serving as reminders of the world beyond and signaling the continuation of life amidst human struggles.
“Feathered” at Erin Cluley Gallery delves into the human-bird relationship, gathering artists from diverse backgrounds and countries. The exhibition, featuring mediums like photography and watercolor, prompts viewers to reconsider their connection with birds and other non-human animals. It’s described as a survey highlighting contemporary art’s enduring fascination with these winged beings.
The exhibit boasts a lineup that includes Dallas-based artists John Miranda, Nic Nicosia, and Zeke Williams, alongside Ike E. Morgan from Austin, Alexa Brooks from Madrid, Spain, Leila Jeffreys from Sydney, Australia, and Magdalena Rantica from Oaxaca, Mexico. Jeffreys, a photographer and video artist, returns with new, highly detailed bird photographs, capturing their individual traits and unique poses after establishing a bond with them.
In contrast, Brooks employs watercolors that extract birds from their natural habitats in Spain, crafting soft, intricate compositions reminiscent of British designer William Morris. This interdisciplinary approach demonstrates how these avian creatures pique our curiosity, inspiring various forms of artistic expression and perhaps symbolizing our innate desire to capture their essence.