Forest, Farm, Field

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Now to move on to the third realm of this exhibit, the farm. Both Lieber and Moran’s artwork reflect the contemporary green trend that has boosted the popularity of the fruits and methods of local organic farming and gardening. Several of Moran’s textiles were inspired by her visits to the Community Farm of Ann Arbor. Moran’s cornucopia includes a collection of antique linens silkscreen-­printed with carrots, beets, and kale leaves. These, however, were the least satisfying of Moran’s work; the brightly colored, detailed prints of vegetables clashed with the formal simplicity of the monogrammed cloth napkins.

Lieber shows off her green green thumb in two installation pieces—Garden Table I (Tableau) and Garden on Wheels, both of which sprout leafy edibles that the River Gallery staff will harvest for salads. As nature-inspired art, these installations resemble anybody’s organic raised-bed garden, the difference being that these gardens aim to nourish and sustain the mind as well as the body.

There will be an artist talk at the gallery at 2 p.m. on Sat., August 18. The exhibit runs through August 25.

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