With “Atmospheric,” artist Kala Stein has created a large-format ceramic version of an ‘atmospheric river’ from an official meteorological map. The mesmerizing piece centers her solo exhibition at Sonoma’s Alley Gallery.
Exploring motifs of water, fragility, and changing landscapes through vessels and wall art, Stein considers the ceramic process a metaphor for geologic and climate change. “As an artist I am working at the intersection of craft, design, and new technologies,” she said while greeting visitors to the downtown gallery.
Stein’s work explores notions of beauty through efficient systems of making, intentional materials, and innovative approaches to fabrication including molding and casting techniques.
Large-scale works such as “Atmospheric” pull an audience towards a mural-like experience, evident as one visitor walked toward it, almost mesmerized.
Stein took a few moments to speak with The Sonoma Valley Sun about her exhibit and work.
With her Masters in Fine Arts degree from Alfred University in upstate New York, along with years of teaching and curating experience, Stein has established herself in Sonoma. For the past seven years she served as Director of Sonoma Ceramics & Arts at Sonoma Community Center. Her experience at SCC was community-focused work that supported organizations, schools, and private practitioners to operate with sustainable and inclusive practices through arts advocacy and expanded opportunities.
While she has continued to teach and exhibit her work throughout the U.S. and internationally, Stein has made her studio at the Sonoma Arts Guild complex. Sonoma is her home base. Aiming for bespoke quality with reverence and intention, Stein produces custom ceramic work for private homes, the hospitality industry, and corporate clients.
“I’m very excited and pleased with this opportunity to exhibit my work,” she said. “Being part of the Sonoma community has made all the difference.”
Alley Gallery is located behind Sebastiani Theater at 476 First St. E. Hours are noon to 5pm. The exhibit continues through May 7.
— Story and photos by Jonathan Farrell
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