An exhibition exploring work tied to the materiality of paper by 13 Ohio women.

Hosted by the Ohio Arts Council’s (OAC) Riffe Gallery and produced in collaboration with the Ohio Advisory Group (OAG) of the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA), located in Washington, D.C., this exhibition marks the OAC Riffe Gallery’s third association with NMWA, and the second with the OAG. We extend our sincere thanks to OAG Founder/Co-Chair Harriet Warm and OAG Co-Chair Sara Vance Waddell for continuing this extraordinary partnership that highlights the talents of women artists in Ohio.

Like the long-storied alchemist, these artists have changed a common material and expanded its value. As viewers, we can be both introspective and empathetic, recognizing paper’s tie and use in our own lives. There is hope in what these artists create, as well as a recognition that transformation is possible with modest beginnings. Through this exhibition we continue to celebrate the legacy of innovation, perseverance, and transformation nascent to women artists of Ohio. 

With gratitude, we recognize the extraordinary work of our curators, Stephanie Rond, Emily Liebert, and Matt Distel, for divining these artists and works from the outstanding talents the state offers. During the 11-week exhibition, the public will have several opportunities to engage with the curators and artists through artists’ talks, workshops, and tours. To learn more about these events, visit riffegallery.org. 

We are grateful to Governor Mike DeWine, the Ohio General Assembly, the board of the Ohio Arts Council, and the citizens of our state for their continued support of the arts in Ohio. Their collective support has turned this historically significant exhibition into a reality.