Recession-proof art: exhibit displays a fun way to make do

The recession’s grasp on the economy means less funds for all aspects of life, including the arts. But a group of local artists have found a way to provide recession-proof art and a chance to see it. From Oct. 2-30, the Covey Center for the Arts is displaying an exhibit entitled “HARD TIMES: INSPIRATION, BEAUTY AND THE ART OF MAKING DO,” showing off the work of the Utah Surface Design Group (USDG).

The art exhibit is based on the concept of recycled goods passed from one artist to another, resulting in unique works of art. Danae Friel, the marketing coordinator at the Covey Center, said that “Creativity is a wonderful way to respond to hard times. Despite harsh economic realities, beauty can still be found in everyday items – and everyone can be an artist.”

USDG is a group of artists that share a passion for surface design, which is the coloring, patterning and structuring of fiber and fabric. Created in the early 1990s, the USDG is now booming with more than 40 members and they are continuously growing. These creative artists took it upon themselves this year to work with each other through recycling and swapping materials to create a new sort of art that people can relate to in these hard economic times.

Created with items from their closets and work spaces, their exhibit features wild and unique art made out of miscellaneous recycled and traded materials like fabric, paint, dye, beads and buttons.

“The work of the Utah Surface Design Group stretches the definition of art – their media and methods are unusual and beautiful,” Friel said. “They use fabric and fiber formed, textured, pieced, dyed, printed, stitched and embellished into unique objects of art.”

“HARD TIMES” is having an opening reception Oct. 2 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. One of the best parts of this exhibit is that the price to see it is unbeatable. The art show, as well as the opening reception, is free to the general public.

What: “HARD TIMES: INSPIRATION, BEAUTY AND THE ART OF MAKING DO”

Where: Covey Center, 425 W. Center St., Provo

When: Opening reception Oct. 2; exhibit ends Oct. 30

Admission: Free

More information: www.CoveyCenter.org