What's Happening?
Motawi Tileworks, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has introduced a new collection of ceramic art tiles inspired by the work of Edie McKee Harper. This marks the first time Harper's art has been translated into tile form by the studio. The collection, developed
in collaboration with the Charley Harper Art Studio, features four feline-themed designs: Sleepy Time Tom, Crazy Quilt Cat, Baskit, and Magnificat. These tiles are now available through Motawi Tileworks and its network of retailers across the nation. Edie McKee Harper, known for her modernist paintings, photography, and illustrations, often focused on themes of cats, children, and childhood memories. Her husband, Charley Harper, was renowned for his 'minimal realism' wildlife illustrations. The new tile collection aims to introduce Edie's distinct artistic voice to a broader audience.
Why It's Important?
The launch of the Edie Harper tile collection is significant as it highlights the growing interest in Edie McKee Harper's work, offering a new medium for her art to reach collectors and enthusiasts. This initiative not only preserves her artistic legacy but also expands the creative partnership between Motawi Tileworks and the Charley Harper Art Studio, which has been ongoing for nearly two decades. By translating Edie's work into tiles, Motawi Tileworks is providing a unique way for art lovers to engage with her modernist style, potentially increasing the appreciation and market for her work. This move also underscores the importance of preserving and promoting the contributions of female artists in the modernist movement, offering them a platform to be recognized alongside their male counterparts.
What's Next?
Interest in Edie McKee Harper's work is expected to grow further with the upcoming retrospective at the Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati, titled 'Edie McKee Harper: Modernist at Play.' This exhibition, opening on October 17, will feature over 100 works spanning various mediums, including photography, painting, and printmaking. The retrospective will likely draw attention to her contributions to modernism and could lead to increased demand for her art, including the new tile collection. As more collectors and art enthusiasts discover her work, there may be opportunities for additional collaborations and adaptations of her art into other forms, further cementing her legacy in the art world.
