7/11: Knitgrrl / Arabella Proffer Open Studio

By Frank Lewis on Thu, Jul 9, 2009 at 8:00 am

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There’s something very right about painter Arabella Proffer sharing studio space with knitter Shannon Okey. Both explore old traditions by making them new. Proffer’s style is informed by the flattering sharp lines of Renaissance portraiture intended to make aristocrats feel good about themselves, but she brings it into the present by informing her portraits of fictitious aristocrats with modern punk/hipster hair styles and fashion. Okey starts with wool, spins it into yarn and, using her own patterns, knits art you can wear. Okey will use the space for her own work, as well as to teach classes. Proffer is preparing for an upcoming show in the Washington, D.C. area. The two of them will celebrate their shared studio (13000 Athens Ave., Suite C288, Lakewood, 216.712.7667) with a party from 7-10 p.m. Free. — Michael Gill