Circle VI – Susan Skatoff

Part of a series based on the work of David Smith (1906-1965) in which I am interpreting Smith’s metal sculpture through textiles. 

I get really excited thinking about the juxtaposition of an artist who wrestles with metal and one who wrangles with fabric.  I like to think about the tricky space between 2D and 3D where quilts reside.  I think the unpliable (metal) and pliable (fabric) can both present strangely similar complex construction issues.

Smith’s Circles were painted in unnatural colours but still constructed to relate with the dramatic landscape of upstate NY, where Smith lived.  Smith was consumed with making work that responded to the environment – horizons, mountains, treelines, the sky as well as the industrialization of the US (particularly New York) at the time.  Smith’s sculptures confront and challenge the viewer with large scale and contemporary form. 

Smith titled works Circle I – Circle V. Circle VI is my tribute to this pivotal artist of the Abstract Expressionist period of American Art.

About the Artist: Susan Skatoff’s work has been exhibited in regional and national quilt shows where she has received several awards.  She is the President of the Palm Beach Modern Quilt Guild and Founder of the Hometown Heroes collaboration between the Palm Beach MQG and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. 

email: susan@skatoff.com