on role today

Reflections In Tea: An Exhibit

by Christine Banks

Tea art can take many forms, and artist Michele Brody has delved into an interactive method of creating it. Through mixed media installations and public art exhibits, she aims to "subtly plant within the viewer a desire to be more aware of the tenuous relationship between themselves, nature, and the urban environment. " "Reflections in Tea" has appeared at several events, including recently at World Tea East.
TeaMuse first featured Ms. Brody's art in 2008. The basis of her installation includes a teahouse framed by copper pipes, and the walls are filled with the participation of visitors, who have a cup of tea and write messages on the stained t-sac paper filters that comprise the teahouse's sides. While previous exhibitions have focused on conversations, human interaction and the multicultural experience, it has continued to evolve.
Recent exhibitions of the installation invite participants to reflect on the earthquake and tsunami that affected the people of Japan this year. The exhibit fosters connections between people through a shared interest and a common drink. A brief, encounter over a cup of tea becomes a personal experience that ultimately strengthens bonds to another country and culture.
At World Tea East, visitors wrote messages of hope, prayer, support and sympathy on the used filters. Ultimately, the filters from the wall of the teahouse will be made into a wishing quilt and sent as a gift to the residents of the Fukushima Prefecture. Participants were also asked to make a voluntary donation, the proceeds of which will go to the Japanese Red Cross.
Learn more about Michele Brody's artwork on her web site.

Photo by Cynthia Fazekas

Photo by Cynthia Fazekas

Tea Sculptures: Pourtensious Lighting

by Eric M. Sternfels

High Pour: Allergenic

The artist/architect who creates these clever pieces, seeks not just to amuse those who see his work, but to steer focus onto the handsome form and design of the everyday vessels of bygone days. Orphaned cups and kettles, percolators and plates are joined into harmonious tableaus of American domesticity. The results are curiously both classic and funky. The lighting is at home in both traditional and contemporary spaces.
Eric M. Sternfels' work springs from a sense that inanimate objects possess their own soul and history. When speaking about the pieces he collects for his work, the artist believes the energy of those that designed or made them, of those that have used and enjoyed them, and of those that now take the time to see them again in new light all collaborate to give us pleasure and satisfaction.
View additional examples at: www.pourtensious.com

from tea muse