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Renowned Portland sculptor Lin Lisberger is showcasing her latest works in an exhibition titled “20 Walks: Lin Lisberger” at the University of Southern Maine Art Gallery in Gorham. The exhibit is open to the public until December 10, 2023, and highlights Lisberger’s distinctive approach to sculpture, particularly her use of locally sourced wood, notably chestnut.
Lisberger’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her personal experiences and memories. She describes her creations as “abstracted narratives,” which pose the question of how much storytelling is necessary to resonate with viewers. The exhibition reflects this struggle, inviting visitors to engage with each piece on a personal level, while also showcasing Lisberger’s exceptional carving skills.
Exploring the Connection Between Memory and Sculpture
A central theme of the exhibition is the concept of walking as a metaphor for exploration—both physical and spiritual. Each sculpture references specific memories, yet the precise details remain elusive, allowing viewers to interpret them in their own ways. For instance, the two pieces titled “Il Duomo” hint at an Italian cathedral, though the exact location is intentionally ambiguous. Similarly, “Eastern Prom” evokes the scenic boulevard overlooking Casco Bay, while “Columbia River Gorge” connects to her travels in Oregon.
One of the standout pieces is “Thai Dragon Stairs,” which features a stunning staircase bordered by dragon forms leading to a gate adorned with ceremonial bells. This sculpture encapsulates the spiritual significance of Lisberger’s experiences, inviting viewers to appreciate the artistry and the emotions behind the creation. Another notable work, “Bandelier Ladders,” draws inspiration from the ancestral dwellings of the Pueblo peoples, further emphasizing Lisberger’s fascination with cultural rituals and artistry from around the world.
Materiality and Meaning in Sculpture
Lisberger’s choice of materials plays a crucial role in her work. The organic quality of wood adds depth and texture, enhancing the viewer’s emotional connection to the sculptures. For example, “Shopping Cart” reimagines a mundane object using various hardwoods, challenging audience perceptions of its meaning. While a typical shopping cart is associated with convenience, Lisberger’s wooden version provokes thoughts about urban life, homelessness, and the complexities of human existence.
Some pieces in the exhibition, such as “The Grey Woods” and “Backstage at the Circus,” have generated mixed reactions. Although they carry personal stories—such as a sledding hill or a tribute to Lisberger’s husband’s musical connections—some viewers may find the narrative too direct, lacking the intrigue found in her more abstract works. The use of paint in these sculptures detracts from the raw beauty of the wood, leading to a more literal interpretation that can diminish the viewer’s curiosity.
In contrast, “Morocco Doors” effectively balances color and form, suggesting various facets of an experience without literal representation. The subtle interplay of colors and shapes allows for a richer interpretation, engaging viewers in a more complex dialogue about the nature of memory and place.
As Kat Zagaria notes in her exhibition essay, Lisberger possesses a unique ability to manifest creativity through somatic experience, making each piece a reflection of her journey.
Visitors to the USM Art Gallery can explore Lisberger’s artistic vision and the intricate relationship between memory, culture, and materiality. The exhibition invites audiences to reflect on their own interpretations and experiences, making “20 Walks” a significant contribution to contemporary sculpture.
For more information about the exhibition, contact the gallery at 207-780-5409 or visit usm.maine.edu/gallery. Admission is free, providing an accessible opportunity for art enthusiasts and the general public alike.
