Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of south Minneapolis, the Susan Hensel Gallery stands as a beacon for those seeking a profound and immersive artistic experience. Founded in 2004 by the multidisciplinary artist Susan Hensel, this intimate space has become a sanctuary for experimental ideas and works that challenge the boundaries of traditional art forms. With a focus on compelling objects, meaningful use of materials, and engaging sculpture, the gallery invites visitors to embark on a sensory journey that transcends the ordinary.
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ContactThe Artist’s Vision
Susan Hensel’s artistic vision is deeply rooted in her belief that art should not merely be a passive observation but rather an active engagement with the world around us. Her work, which spans over five decades, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to exploring the intersection of materiality, color, and form. Through her innovative use of digital embroidery techniques, Hensel creates sculptural textile works that defy conventional expectations, transforming the seemingly mundane into extraordinary experiences.
“Fiber and mixed media objects of overwhelming color that transcend the quotidian, creating experiences that step into pure sensation,” is how Hensel describes her artistic endeavors. Her pieces are not mere decorative objects but rather portals into a realm where the boundaries between art and life blur, inviting viewers to step outside the narrative of the ego and immerse themselves in the present moment.
A Space for Experimentation and Collaboration
The Susan Hensel Gallery is not just a physical space; it is a living, breathing entity that fosters creativity, collaboration, and artistic growth. With its hardwood floors and high tin ceilings, the gallery exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging visitors to linger and engage with the works on display.
One of the gallery’s defining features is its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artists from the Midwest and beyond. Hensel’s curatorial vision is driven by a deep appreciation for materiality and a desire to represent artists who share her love for unconventional mediums and techniques. From the intricate fiber art of Ingrid Restemayer to the joyful basketry of Martha Bird, the gallery’s exhibitions offer a kaleidoscope of perspectives and artistic expressions.
“In my gallery work, I am called to represent Midwest artists to the greater, international art market. I represent artists who share my love of materiality,” Hensel explains. “The materials we work with drive much of our output. For me, the computer-aided, industrial textile practice encourages great experimentation with color perception, texture, and form.”[3]
Exhibitions that Captivate and Inspire
The Susan Hensel Gallery’s exhibition schedule is a testament to its commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Each show is carefully curated to provide visitors with a unique and thought-provoking experience.
One of the gallery’s recent exhibitions, “On Clouds of Glory Do We Come” by K. Daphnae Koop, exemplifies the gallery’s dedication to showcasing works that engage with profound themes and concepts. Koop’s abstract pieces, which combine stones collected from the shores of Lake Superior with intricate embroidery, explore the nature of reality and the miracle of existence. The exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the ephemeral and the eternal, challenging them to see the world through a new lens.[1]
Another notable exhibition, “Single Story” by Ingrid Restemayer, takes the concept of the house as a metaphor for place and circumstance. Each piece in the series features the outline of a single-story building overlaid with stitched or collaged elements, creating a dialogue between the viewer and the work. Through this exhibition, Restemayer invites us to consider the stories that our living spaces hold and the ways in which our circumstances shape our narratives.[1]
Beyond the Gallery Walls
While the physical gallery space remains a cornerstone of Hensel’s artistic endeavors, her vision extends far beyond its walls. In 2013, the interior space of the gallery reverted to a working studio for Hensel, allowing her to continue her exploration of sculptural and cultural spaces. This transition has not diminished the gallery’s impact; instead, it has evolved into a multifaceted platform that includes an online presence on Artsy.net and a large window gallery on Cedar Avenue, a main thoroughfare in south Minneapolis.[3]
Through these various channels, Hensel continues to curate exhibitions and support emerging and mid-career artists, fostering a vibrant and dynamic artistic community. Her commitment to mentorship and education is evident in her willingness to share her knowledge and expertise through studio visits, lectures, panel discussions, and other visiting artist activities.
Conclusion
The Susan Hensel Gallery is more than just a physical space; it is a testament to the power of art to transform our perceptions and enrich our lives. Through its unwavering commitment to experimental ideas, meaningful materiality, and engaging sculpture, the gallery has become a sanctuary for those seeking a deeper connection with the world around them.
As Hensel herself eloquently states, “We all share the need to touch and manipulate our materials. We all need to look deeply, within ourselves and toward the world we help create.”[3] It is this profound understanding of the artist’s role in shaping our collective consciousness that makes the Susan Hensel Gallery a truly remarkable and essential part of the Minneapolis art scene.
Whether you are an avid art enthusiast or simply seeking a respite from the mundane, the Susan Hensel Gallery invites you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. Step inside, and let the overwhelming colors, textures, and forms transport you to a realm where the boundaries between art and life dissolve, and the only limit is the boundless expanse of your imagination.
Citations: [1] https://susanhenselgallery.com/current-exhibition/ [2] https://susanhenselgallery.com [3] https://susanhenselgallery.com/about-susan-hensel-gallery/ [4] https://www.altiba9.com/artist-interviews/susan-hensel-textile-design [5] https://susanhenselprojects.com/about-susan-hensel-art/ [6] https://susanhenselprojects.com [7] https://susanhenselprojects.com/susan-hensel-art-news/ [8] https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/articulture/2739 [9] https://www.glassdoor.com/employers/blog/10-qualities-that-returning-caregivers-bring-to-the-workplace/ [10] https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/midtown-global-market/24448 [11] https://www.senckenberg.de/en/institutes/shep/the-institute/ [12] https://www.tsgny.org/susan-hensel [13] https://susanhenselgallery.com/exhibit-in-and-out-of-the-fold/ [14] https://johnhensel.net/exhibitions/ [15] https://www.gallery5004.com/susan-hensel [16] https://tangerine-sealion-rwds.squarespace.com/exhibitions [17] https://www.twirlproject.com/5-susan-hensel.html [18] https://www.twirlproject.com/3-susan-hensel.html [19] https://susanhenselprojects.com/susan-hensel-art-exhibition-bookish/