‘Photographs and Facemasks’ Reveals Two Artistic Perspectives on the Animal Kingdom

Although bound by a fascination with animals, artists Diane Fox (Knoxville, Tennessee) and Abigail Brown (London, England) approach their beasts from opposite ends of the spectrum. A senior lecturer at the University of Tennessee’s College of Architecture and Design, Fox creatively addresses the objectification of nature (in zoos, on TV and elsewhere) via UnNatural History — a photographic series depicting taxidermied animals housed in natural history museums in the U.S. and abroad. At times incorporating reflections, light glare and the inner workings of diorama cases, these images often expose “unreality and the disconnection within the human/animal relationship.”
Armed with a degree in surface decoration and printed textiles, Brown is perhaps best known for her bird sculptures, which have landed in the pages of Vogue, Bazaar, and UK-based Elle Decoration. Working with upcycled materials, embroidered fabrics, wood and papier-mâché, the artist and illustrator handcrafts dolls, wall art and head mounts inspired by owls, squirrels, monkeys, cats and kangaroos.
Curated by Clamp Light resident artist and co-director Carol Cunningham (who incidentally grew up “surrounded by farm animals” in Oklahoma), “Photographs and Facemasks” opens May 12 and remains on view by appointment through the end of the month. Free, 7-10pm Fri, May 12, Clamp Light Artist Studios and Gallery, 1704 Blanco Road, Suite 104, (580) 704-9466, clamplightsa.com.