the heat is on
By Beth Walton
Staff Writer

There’s something hot in Bobbitt these days.

“Purely Thermal,” found in the Elsie Munroe Gallery, is a traveling exhibit displaying the work of professional artists and sculptors from Southwest Michigan.

“This exhibit shows how artwork is created with heat processesÑit shows the lot of elements people use to make their work,” said curator and contributing artist Gloria Badiner. “Hopefully after leaving the exhibit, people will think about the process and the process will become a part of something. It will bring to the piece,” she continued.

Michelle and Peter Zorich from Kalamazoo have two pieces displayed in the center of the gallery. “Untitled” and “Jazz Man.” The untitled piece is a delicate table and “Jazz Man” is a steel sheet with detailed engravings on it. “We use heat throughout all aspects during the creation of our work,” Zorich stated.

Thermal energy was used to cut the steel into its necessary dimensions, to weld the cut pieces together, and also in the patinas or final finishes. “Using heat, steel, and glass we create another of our ‘Things of Steel,’” Zorich said.

The Zoriches as well as the other Southwest Michigan artists displayed are providing an educational opportunity for art students at Albion College.

“Student interest is generated when they see an accomplished artist who’s work is very refined and seen in the real world,” Badiner said.

“Purely Thermal” will remain at Albion College until February 5th. Afterwards, it will be displayed at Adrian College. “These colleges were chosen because both schools have very strong ceramic departments and strong gallery space,” Badiner said.