Marita Dingus, cork baby,  photo: Spike Mafford

Juan Alonso and Marita Dingus are showing their latest work at Francine Seders Gallery in Seattle, WA, August 13 – September 5.  Juan is a painter, and Marita works with recycled materials to create sculptures, dolls, masks, baskets, wall hangings, jewelry and installations (did I miss anything?).  We here at Olympia Dumpster Divers remain in awe of her and her work; she truly can make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.  But what sets her work apart from others who use junk to make stuff is not just her ingenuity but the way she deftly combines the discards with deeper themes of slavery, freedom, love, and everyday life.  Marita has the rare ability to be both serious and playful; her work resonates with the viewer on more than one level.   This upcoming show includes her recent baskets and babies.  See more of Marita Dingus’ work here and here

Marita Dingus, Red Flower Basket, 2009, fabric and wire,  photo: Spike Mafford