Artist Statement

For me, the arts and sciences are part of an inclusive cosmological fabric. Fiber & Light is an evolving exploration of natural phenomena from intimate perspectives. Using linear light-interactive materials and 20th century analog projection technologies, I construct stitched and extruded extra-dimensional atmospheres. These are interwoven into an ongoing laboratory for discovery and collaboration.

Initially inspired by the dynamics of the Aurora Borealis, I have built Fiber & Light from a 'soft science' perspective: both technical and emotional, abstract and personal. As a meditative stillness and a dynamic sound and light experience, my analog invention offers an opportunity to realign ourselves with universal qualities of space, light, and gravity, scale, motion, beauty, and time.

Fiber & Light Installations cross disciplines and domains, connecting people across cultures, interests, and ages. The abstract forms, patterns, and layered surfaces invite personal frames of reference into play. I continue to seek new opportunities to collaborate on sound design, projection technologies and content, physical interaction, psychic expansion, and restorative healing.

Biography

Based in Halifax, NS, and Atlanta, GA, Edith Kelman has created large-scale fiber constructions for commercial and private interiors, receiving grants for her experimental architectonic works that merge disciplines. She cofounded Catbird Gallery, an artist-directed collaborative with Atlanta creatives. Since 1982, as cofounder/CEO, she has designed programs through Strange Apples, Inc., an artist-driven nonprofit arts and education organization, specializing in collaborative, multicultural projects and mentorships. Numerous grants and residencies were awarded for Kelman's arts and sciences interactions, i.e. supporting Fiber & Light in Fairbanks, Alaska at the Geophysical Institute; with GA Tech's Atmospheric Sciences Dept.; at the Caixaforum in Barcelona, Spain. Since 2006, Kelman serves as cofounder and projects manager with the Early Edgewood-Candler Park BiRacial History Project, developing living history interactions on the land with stakeholder families, a Walking History Tour, interpretive Legacy Markers, Atlanta Black Landmark protections for the Old Stone Church. The History Project sponsors a 6th generation local Black family descendant/young adult artist at GA State University.