The vibrant city of Miami Beach is currently abuzz with excitement as The Art Lounge, presented by theART-Dept. and NRVLD hosts the mesmerizing works of the talented interdisciplinary artist and upcycled fashion designer Lauren Altman. Nestled within the chic confines of the Surfcomber Hotel, Altman’s exhibition features three captivating pieces – “Rite of Passage,” “Hear the Chimes of Your Cosmic Clock Ring,” and “Always Reach for the Brass Ring.”
A Personal Invitation into Altman’s Weird and Wonderful World
Lauren Altman’s artistic creations are not merely visual delights but portals into a world where old clothes, paint, beads, and even compost converge to create something extraordinary. In her own words, “My artworks are a personal invitation into my weird and wonderful world to discover the possibilities of playing with old clothes, paint, beads, and even compost…they are a reminder that we all have something special and unique that we bring into this world.”
One of the spotlight pieces, “Rite of Passage,” is a testament to Altman’s artistic ingenuity. Comprising a diverse array of materials such as acrylic paint, linen, amate (tree bark) paper, indigo-dyed denim clothing seams, denim fabric, sequins, seed beads, embroidery thread, gold leaf, Indian silk, and embroidered textiles, this 36” x 48” masterpiece on canvas is a symphony of textures and colors. Its price tag of $5,000 reflects not just the physical materials but the intricate storytelling woven into every thread.
Exploring Cosmic Dimensions Through Art
“Hear the Chimes of Your Cosmic Clock Ring” is another noteworthy creation on display. Crafted with acrylic paint, hand-dyed wool yarn using madder root and indigo, embroidery thread, sequins, Indian silk, and embroidered textiles, this 36” x 48” piece beckons viewers to explore cosmic dimensions. Priced at $5,000, Altman’s ability to merge earthly elements with cosmic inspirations is showcased vividly in this captivating artwork.
For those who seek a sold-out masterpiece, “Always Reach for the Brass Ring” stands as a testament to Altman’s popularity and the uniqueness of her approach. The mixed-media on canvas, incorporating upcycled fabric, acrylic paint, gold leaf, beads, sequins, and cotton and metallic embroidery thread, has found a fortunate owner at $7,500. The impressive dimensions of 72” W x 36” L allow viewers to immerse themselves in the details of Altman’s intricate work.
Lauren Altman: A Global Artistic Force
Altman’s influence extends far beyond the sun-soaked shores of Miami Beach. Hailing from Brooklyn, her extensive artistic portfolio has graced prestigious exhibitions and galleries worldwide. Altman’s work resonates across diverse cultural landscapes, from the iconic House of Yes in New York to the Escuela Superior de Artes de Yucatán in Mérida, Mexico.
The Superfine! Art Fair in Miami and the Centre for Substructured Loss in London are just a couple of stops on Altman’s international journey. Her interdisciplinary approach to art has captivated audiences across borders, solidifying her position as an artist with a global footprint.
Educator, Workshop Leader, and Visionary
Beyond her exhibitions, Lauren Altman’s commitment to the artistic community is evident through her leadership in workshops. Partnering with art, wellness, and community spaces, she has led workshops at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia, the ChoZen Eco-Sanctuary in Florida, and Scouts of America. Altman’s work has also been featured on the social-emotional learning art-making show, Draw Together.
Lauren Altman’s educational journey has been as diverse as her art. Holding a BFA in Communication Design from Parsons School of Design, an MA in Contemporary Art from Sotheby’s Institute of Art, and an MFA in Interdisciplinary Studio Art from the University of Pennsylvania, Altman’s academic achievements underscore the depth of her artistic knowledge.
Lauren Altman’s exhibition at Art Basel 2023 is a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and create connections. Her intricate mixed-media pieces not only showcase her technical prowess but also invite viewers into a world where imagination knows no limits. As Altman continues to leave an indelible mark on the global art scene, her ability to blend diverse materials and narratives ensures that her work remains a source of inspiration for art enthusiasts and aspiring artists alike.
