‘Physicality and emotional resonance’

“Gathering #11: An Open Book’’ (horse chestnut leaf stems and waxed linen thread, woven), by Ann Wessmann, in her show “Twig Leaf Husk Thorn,’’ at Kingston Gallery, Boston, through April 26.

The artist says:

“In my studio practice, I explore themes relating to time, memory, beauty and the ephemeral, with a focus on the strength and fragility of human beings and the natural world. With a background in fiber and textile processes, I develop objects and installations through repetition and the accumulation of a variety of materials. Over the years materials have been chosen for their expressive potential; translucent vellum, various personal mementos such as locks of hair from family members, texts from family journals and letters, or collections of natural materials such as plants, shells, stones, or bones. The works have a strong relationship to text and textiles, pattern, transformation, order and chaos, landscape and the body. 

“I hope to engage the viewer through the physicality and often the emotional resonance of materials, and through the use of scale. Viewers often confront works which mirror the human body. Larger scale installations may surround the viewer. In some cases small pieces are made requiring the viewer to look from a very close perspective.’’