String Theories

An exhibition of works expressed through the media of instruments by luthier Ben Mason, and artist J. Daniel Graham. Ranging from traditional techniques to experimental materials, and processes, these instruments explore the connections to present and future history.

Anyone that ventures into the world of instrument making almost always find themselves collaborating with the past. No matter the approach one recognizes that they are part of a connective tissue, a continuing thread that reaches backward, while simultaneously moving forward. This exhibition is documenting a crossover in that connective thread of past and future history.

Luthier Ben Mason, and Artist J. Daniel Graham approach their instrument making practice from divergent perspectives while sharing similar goals at the base of their craft. Mason pursues a deep technical understanding of material and its performative qualities, while fine tuning a personal craft identity linked to the great tradition of luthiers. Graham champions an exploratory curiosity, pushing the context of traditional materials while still staying connected to the craft, all the while driving the purpose and concept of the instrument into the aesthetics of a functional Art object.