SoNa Chicago is hosting an artist talk for the exhibition, Unearthing on Saturday, March 8 from 5-8 pm.

SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art is proud to feature Pinar Aral and Mirentxu Ganzarain, two extraordinary Chicago-based sculptors currently working in clay. Aral's new work in the exhibition features pieces with the beautiful markings achieved through the ancient method of pit firing. She also is showing a few pieces from her signature Mobius Strip series, and numerous small white porcelain objects reminiscent of forms in nature. Ganzarain is showcasing a diverse collection of work including terracotta sculptures inspired by germination and sprouting seeds, porcelain objects with faux fur and feathers, large mixed-media drawings, and small works on paper.

While both Aral and Ganzarain have lived in the U.S. for most of their lives, they appreciate their hybrid identities. Aral is Turkish-American and Ganzarain is Chilean-American and of Spanish descent. The artists have a global view, and it surfaces in their work. Despite never having met before the planning of this exhibit, there was an instant connection between them as they learned about each other’s paths to where they are as artists today. 

The elegance of their work gives this show a serene atmosphere where one wants to take time to relax and contemplate the form and finish of each piece. 

Ganzarain earned her MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Aral’s degree is from the Institute of Industrial Design in Florence, Italy. 

Contact Laura Botwinick at (773) 513-4436 or lkbotwinick@gmail.com for more information.