ARTIST INFO

RACHEL KEDINGER
Philadelphia, PA

METALS AND IRON | Sculpture and utilitarian metal objects

Penland Affiliation | Penland Core Fellow 2016-2018, Penland Winter Resident 2023

Artist Information | Studio artist; education: BFA University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin; teaching: Touchstone Center for Craft (PA), Haystack Mountain School of Craft (ME), Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (TN); exhibitions: Bok Studios (PA), Penland Gallery (NC), Greater Denton Arts Council (TX), Carbondale Arts R2 Gallery (CO), Toe River Arts Council (NC)

Artist Bio | Rachel Kedinger is an artist currently living in Philadelphia, PA. Rachel primarily makes objects out of metal with a focus on utilitarian use. Before moving to Philadelphia in early 2018, Rachel participated in the Core Fellowship Program at Penland School of Craft. She has also lived in Detroit, MI and Rehoboth Beach, DE, where she worked for various artists and metalsmithing shops.

Artist Statement | I am interested in the history and use of objects. When making, I think about objects people use in their daily practice and how I can focus on details that create a better user experience. I try to understand the interaction between the user and the objects by adding elements of detail and care. I want to create objects of intention not only in the making, but also when used. I think about the longevity of an object that will last longer than my existence and what that means to me as a maker. This pushes me to make everyday tools that everyone can use. I often combine materials that evoke toughness and fragility. This idea challenges me to transform materials and create objects intended for interaction.

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MICHELLE KWIECIEN
Philadelphia, PA

METALS AND BOOKS

Penland Affiliation | Penland Winter Resident 2024, Penland Studio Assistant 2023, Penland Student 2022

Artist Information | Studio artist; education: BA Interdisciplinary Art, Alfred University (NY); residencies: Salem Art Works (NY), Franconia Sculpture Park (MN), Pyramid Atlantic Art Center (MD); teaching: NextFab Studio (PA)

Artist Bio | Michelle Kwiecien is an interdisciplinary artist living and working in Philadelphia, PA. Her background in sculpture and printmaking coupled with years of work as a metal fabricator has resulted in a melding of material poetry, imagery, and functional object making. Elements of industrial design and heirloom craftsmanship are interwoven in her work, creating objects that are both aesthetic and emotionally rousing.

Technical Information | Coptic bound journals with laser engraved leather covers and printed book ends.