Each of Alicia Wiese's (1961-2024) intricately beaded pieces began with a meticulous drawing on graph paper. Wiese often spent weeks perfecting a design before bringing it to life. Enthralled by color and pattern, she said, “I am like a magpie that is attracted to shiny, sparkly, colorful things.” Wiese beaded for over 25 years and was perpetually developing new collections, often in conjunction with Interact performances andexhibitions.Pearlescent jellyfish, humpback whales, and seahorses are among the menagerie of aquatic lifefrom2018’s Underwater collection. In 2019, shedebuted a series of cocktails and classic cars atthe Lab Theater in conjunction withHot Dog Daze, a 50’s satirical performance by Interact’s theater company.
Wiese presented work in exhibitions throughout the Twin Cities, includingWe Are Not Disposable(2020),Randomlandat The White Page (2019), Groundswell at Artspace Jackson Flats (2019), and Underwater at Interact Gallery (2018).
Special thanks to Xavier Tavera for this portrait of the artist at work.
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