WATSONVILLE—A new exhibit has opened at Pajaro Valley Arts’ (PVA) gallery in Watsonville, highlighting the artistic medium of metalwork.
Presented by the Monterey Bay Metal Arts Guild (MBMAG)—a local organization aiming to promote the form and local artists—the show, titled “Reflections,” includes a wide range of work utilizing a variety of techniques. Pieces range in size and form, from jewelry to small sculpture.
The 29 featured artists created their work specifically for the exhibit around the theme, said artist Toni Danzig, a member of MBMAG who co-curated the show with Annette Nemes.
“We asked [members] to show a little of their own reflections of the past year,” Danzig said. “We said, ‘you’ve been cooped up, haven’t been able to do an art show … What are your dreams, hopes, remembrances?’ Each one of them interpreted that theme in their own way.”
Members created work referencing a variety of subjects, including the 2020 fires (“House on Smoke” by Lydia Tijoe Hall), masks worn and abandoned (“Censored” by Ron Baldwin) and the isolation and reunion of family (“Out of the Dark” by Carol Holaday).
MBMAG usually holds two shows per year, spread out geographically across Monterey Bay. They had held an exhibit at PVA about five years ago, Danzig said, and were eager to work with the organization again. Originally, “Reflections” was slated for last year.
“We really enjoyed working with PVA, so we asked them if we could do a second show,” she said. “Thankfully they said yes.”
Danzig began learning metalwork after retirement. Looking for something to fill time, she stumbled on a show featuring the art form at Cabrillo College.
“I saw that display … and I fell in love,” she said. “I started taking classes … It was there that I was encouraged to join the guild.”
One of the most interesting things about metalwork, Danzig said, is the variety of what you can create.
“With metalwork, inspiration can take you to so many places,” she said. “It can satisfy such a drive … a hunger to create.”
“Reflections” opened Wednesday after four weeks of preparation from Danzig, Nemes and PVA staff. It will be on display through Oct. 3. In addition to the exhibit, the artists selected some of their work to be sold at the gallery’s gift shop.
Danzig said it was at times a challenge to put the show together, though well worth it in the end.
“I love this community of artists,” she said. “They are all very inspiring—and their work is all different from each other. We have such a wonderful, talented group of people.”
The support from PVA, she said, was a big factor in its success.
“Working with PVA is such a joy,” Danzig said. “They know what they’re doing, and they always lead the way. I would come back again, no question. I hope we will.”
For information visit pvaarts.org and mbmag.org.
