08/29/2026
SOCIAL SCULPTURE is one of the Artnauts greatest traditions. Founder Dr George Rivera explains, "Our social sculpture actions are created with the intent to create social transformation that heals others as they deal with inhumanity that erodes our common well-being. All of us can create art about social transformation, but not all of us can create social sculptures (actions) that extend beyond the white cube to initiate discussion about the consequences of the inhumanity that exists and the importance of healing from that wound."
As part of the Artnauts 30th Anniversary Part 1 exhibition, "Rhizome: Origins", social sculpture "A Thousand Knots" by Pamela Beverly-Quigley, will be actioned.
Pamela writes, "'A Thousand Knots' is an interactive artwork that grows over time with participation, creating a shared experience of emotional release, connection, and renewal. A 53-foot-long “strand” (symbolizing an unwoven mandala) made from wool and textiles is handed to participants, thus connecting everyone together. Each person receives a piece of fabric or vintage lace, symbolizing the start of a new journey. They are then invited to reflect on a personal burden while holding the “strand” and untying a twine knot that resides on it, representing the release of emotional weight. Afterward, they tie their new fabric onto the cord, marking the intention for their new path. Over time, additional cords will be added culminating in the creation of a larger mandala, symbolizing the cyclical nature of personal and communal change."
Join us Friday, Sept 4, 2-4PM for Social Sculpture 1000 Knots, Gallery talks, and Scholarship Award ceremony.
Images:
"A Thousand Knots" photo by Pamela Beverly-Quigley for "DIS)PLACE" Bogota, Colombia, 2025
1000 Knots Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina, 2025 (Heather Hanson)
1000 Knots Manaus, Brazil, 2025 (Barbara Colombo)
1000 Knots Bogota, Colombia, 2025 (Barbara Colombo, Trine Bumiller)
