Zingari

Zingari are spirit friends who bring good fortune, health, joy, and wisdom to those who delight in their company. Hand-crafted from high-quality textiles by artist Sharon Wenzel in her studio, located in Louisville Colorado.

A note from the artist:

Since childhood, I have had a natural affinity for fabric and sewing, and throughout my adult life, fiber has been my working medium. Although I was trained in drawing, painting and design, and have enjoyed experimenting and exploring in two dimensions, i always return to the elements of fabric's rich textures and colors, and combine them to create the best symbols that I know with which to express myself. My inclination has always been to arrange these symbols into a language of whimsy, fantasy, humor " and playfulness.

Inspiration comes from many sources, including but not exclusive to, the works of Joseph Cornell, Alexander Calder, Saul Steinberg, Paul Klee, Lori Anderson, and the worlds of animation and the circus, which bring to light zaniness and absurdity.

The greatest influence on my current work comes from my love for the Folk Arts of all cultures. Primitive Art is imbued with a genuine affection for the materials, and a directness of message. I find guidance from its legacy and look forward with great anticipation to creating new works of fabric, beads, milagros, buttons, coins and other

'oddments' that together, bring fun and humor into our complex 'technocratic' lives.

Sharon Wenzel

Wall Dolls - measure 17 inches tall, 8 inches wide