Sound Formations: Artist, Musician, Instrument Maker is a group exhibition showcasing beautifully handcrafted musical instruments that can also be appreciated as works of art. Claremont has a rich and unique history of musicians and instrument makers, and local artists continue to create instruments in their workshops and studios, catering to musicians who value handcrafted pieces over mass-produced items. Sound Formations, sponsored in part by the Chouinard Foundation, will remain on view through July 13, 2025. 

 

The Exhibition
Sound Formations, guest curated by Mike Kotzen and Martin Maudal, focuses on instruments and their makers. The instrument is a bridge between the hand of the maker and the hand of the musician, where the harmony of material, body and acoustics forms stunning visual designs.

 

Claremont has made a significant impact on the music world and this exhibition also recognizes the important contributions of resident musicians and important landmarks, including the Folk Music Center, established by Charles and Dorothy Chase in 1958, and the Golden Ring music café which opened in 1965. For many years, Claremont's live music culture thrived, largely due to the annual Folk Festival and the numerous live music venues in the area.

 

The Artists
The exhibition will include the works of Henry Barnes, Richard Barnes, Charles Chase, Otto D'Ambrosio, David Dart, Kirk Delman, Kris Erickson, Pete Escovedo, Steve Goode, Mike Kotzen, Martin Maudal, Father Bill Moore, Brian Ransom, Elizabeth Redd, Jom Rivers, Victoria Rosas, Warren Shingleton, Dave Tourje, and Larry White.