2014

Babel

This body on work takes inspiration from three sources: the bible story of Babel, illuminated manuscripts, and typography. The objective of this series is to express the lack of understanding between people; the “us and them” that is created by a language barrier. This subject is relevant in our current global and local communities. Today’s world is a place where communication across the globe can happen with a click of a button. Yet, we cannot understand each other and resentment grows.

Decorative elements are inspired from a variety of cultures including Indian fabric stamps, Japanese and Germanic wood cut design, and Persian miniature borders. Elements borrowed from antiquity are used and combined with contemporary art styles and forms of communications. Computer language, such as texting shortcuts and visual ideas such as Japanese anime represent life today. All of these elements live together in a beautifully composed but completely indiscernible world.

Michele Montalbano was born in Los Angeles, California. She earned a BS from California State University. She works as a painter and printmaker in the Washington DC area where she attended the George Washington University and obtained a MFA in painting. She has received fellowships at residency programs including the Vermont Studio School and awards including the Strauss Fellowship and the David Lloyd Kreeger Prize. Her work has been published in “New American Paintings.”
Two subjects that have been the main inspiration of her paintings and prints are interior spaces and nature. Her latest series, “Babel,” a multi media project inspired by medieval illuminated manuscripts, incorporates book arts and letterpress with printmaking and painting.
Ms. Montalbano’s work has been exhibited at many venues in the DC area including Gallery Plan B, and McLean Project for the Arts and Greater Reston Arts Center.