June 3, 2023

A large empty space, especially one that has an intriguing history and structure, calls to the creative. Taking advantage of it is a challenge to those brave enough for the attempt. This is where The Hook Experiment takes over, transforming abandoned space into a compelling mixed medium and use gallery this weekend.

When visiting the Hook Building, “It was love at first sight,” said Mia Fabrizio, one of the artists in the show. “The space itself truly captivated our attention.”

Named for its original owners, the building has been through many iterations, including as a warehouse for the Sears catalog and the corporate headquarters for the Outback Trading Company. Wilson King, who owned the building, decided to restore it to its original brick and mortar and see what the space wanted to be.

“You have to see it to really understand the magnitude,” said Vicki Vinton, curator of The Hook Experiment and participating artist.

Vinton worked with Lisa Baird and Joy Smoker to put on this show, as well as Liz Ruff from The Art Trust in West Chester. The three-day exhibition will take over the large space with installations, paintings, sculpture, immersive sound, live music, and more from over twenty artists.

“Our goal was to show contemporary art in all its mediums—2D, 3D, sound, and sensory,” Vinton said. “The hope is that Oxford will become a town for the arts. A sort of ‘if you build it they will come.’”

The space demands artists that think beyond the normal gallery walls.

“The Hook is a superior space and is ripe for opportunity,” said Katee Boyle, a participating artist. “All of the work is impactful, forward-thinking, and unique to the artist and the medium they are using.”

“The Hook Experiment has the potential to be a catalyst for evolution,” said Fabrizio. “Art is meant to raise questions, push society forward, and forge connections where there once were none.” This exhibition takes that idea and explores not just the limits of the space, but the idea of art itself. “I’m excited that local contemporary artists are moving beyond the imagery that is traditionally expected to resonate within Chester County.”

The wide variety of pieces in the exhibition invites the viewer to not just move through the space but to view them in relation to the other pieces, sounds, and experiences. “My biggest delight is to see the range of ideas,” said Vinton. “From the delicate paper brides of Hanna Vogel strung from the rafters to the bold light and sculptural piece from Charles Emlen . . . the most overarching theme is the trust each artist has in their vision and the process.”

Michael Dela Dika, a sculptor, took the opportunity to show all aspects of his work. “The sculptures are installed in the center of the space . . . this allows the audience to circle around consciously to experience each one,” he said. It was important to bring in pieces that “embody my personal stories that engage with my new audience and create a space for personal interpretation.”

The Hook Experiment invited artists to not just hang their work but to participate in the overall experience. This led to a collaborative atmosphere. “I have been genuinely moved by their willingness to help one another through the process and the comradery that has ensued,” Vinton said. Rather than having a favorite piece in the show, she decided, “My favorite pieces are the artists themselves.”

Fabrizio installed her large-scale pieces the week prior to the exhibition, seeing the space as it was slowly taken over by the various artists. “My work speaks about peeling back layers of a facade to reveal foundations, framework and residue,” she said. “Aesthetically I couldn’t ask for a better stage to present my work.” Other artists bring different perspectives. For example, Shannon Woodloe is presenting a stunning photo series, which Fabrizio says is “gorgeous, powerful, and requires self-introspection from the viewer. I know many talented artists are on the roster but it’s going to be difficult to replace this work as my favorite.”

“Art can be experienced through different mediums and the exhibition provides the perfect space for that unique experience,” said Dika. “I personally think this is only the genesis of more exciting exhibitions to come.”

Vinton hopes visitors have the feeling “of having their imagination stretched, in a way that says, ‘I haven’t seen that before . . . That’s kind of crazy cool . . . I’d like some more!’”

The Hook Experiment takes place June 2 through 4 at the Hook Building, 45 S. 3^rd Street, Oxford, PA. More information can be found on Instagram @HookExperiment.

About Victoria Rose

Victoria Rose (she/her) is an editor, writer, avid reader, self-described geek, and fan of all things creative. Her passion for words has led to her current career as a freelance editor, and she is the owner of Flickering Words, an editing service. When not wielding a red pen (or cursor), she loves reading books of all genres, playing video, board, and word games, baking ridiculous creations to show off on the internet, or enjoying the gorgeous outdoors. She is a board member of the West Chester Film Festival and part of the Thirsty Monsters, a team of streamers from around the world who fundraise for various charities supporting LGBTQIA+ and accessibility rights. She can be found online @WordsFlickering or the Brandywine Art Guide @BrandywineArtGuide.

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