The Giertz Gallery at Parkland College presents “Fragments and Layers: Works by Erin Furimsky and Tali Weinberg.” Furimsky and Weinberg both explore the interconnection of systems and structures. Their work is enriched by the mastery of their material and how they inject meaning through process. Furimsky is a studio artist in Bloomington, Illinois. Her ceramic sculptures explore the relationship of sculptural form with highly ornamented surfaces, delving into the relatable and astonishing nature of the mundane and the human body. Her forms, both full and flat, suggest the strength of the human body and spirit and are imbued with a gentle endurance through buoyant energy, playfulness, and fragility. Weinberg, based in Champaign-Urbana, creates interdisciplinary works primarily through weaving and installations, addressing interconnected systems, environmental motifs, and the impact of extraction on people and the earth. Her patterns, influenced by natural forms and microscopic life, seek to establish order through layered lines and solid color, reflecting interconnection and the passage of time.

The Giertz Gallery at Parkland College serves as a platform for contemporary art. It functions as an educational resource that fosters critical thinking and dialogue through the visual arts, while also acting as a cultural hub for our community. Our serene campus location encourages meaningful engagement between the artwork and its viewers, facilitating a deeper understanding and appreciation of the arts. Furthermore, our diverse programming, which includes workshops and lectures, allows participants to experience the artwork firsthand and engage with artists about their creative processes, career paths, and artistic journeys.