Lanesboro Arts presents “Natureworks,” an exhibition of sculptures by Minneapolis-based artist Alonso Sierralta.

The gallery opening and artist reception is on April 4th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Attendees can enjoy conversations with the artist, refreshments, and live music while getting a first look at the new exhibition.

The concepts and subject matter for Sierralta’s work develop from ideas related to his experience as an immigrant. The spreading of seeds, roots, and pollen are the basic inspiration for the sculptural forms. With this metaphorical relationship, forms and materials are selected with the intention of creating both harmony and discord, echoing the way that moving to a new country, learning a new language, and giving up what is familiar elicits both optimism and fear. Disparate materials are selected to create a sense of tension and forced metamorphosis.

The sculptures are not meant as political commentary, but rather as a visual representation of transplantation using organic forms and natural motifs. As Alonso explains, “While for me the work is about moving to this country from Chile when I was fourteen, ideas of growth, challenge, pain, and building a future are universal, not only for humans, but for all of the natural world.” Through this examination of displacement and adaptation the viewer is encouraged to create a variety of visual and conceptual associations.

This exhibition is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.