The art of Morli Wilcox is rooted in origins — even down to the molecular basis of life itself. In juxtaposition, Wilcox will reveal her largest work to date this weekend, courtesy of a new workspace steeped with history.
Only a month after opening her studio in the North Village Art District, local artist Morli Wilcox returned to Jefferson City after 23 years to work as a promoter, general manager and booking agent for Jefferson City’s newest (and oldest) music venue, Moreau Lodge. The century old structure and historic landmark also houses Wilcox’s new painting studio.
“I’ve painted three pieces since I’ve been here,” Wilcox says. “That really doesn’t feel like a lot for me, but they’re larger — they’re more important pieces. My work has matured and advanced even since the beginning of the year. I don’t feel like I’ve lost anything. I’ve gained a lot.”
Wilcox first contemplated abstract expressionism as a child through the realization that many things were more than they appeared. As she molded herself into the artist she is today, Wilcox crafted her own style: chaos theory abstract expressionism.
For Wilcox, inspiration for abstract expressionism comes in unique forms. It’s spontaneous – coming from what her mind sees and not necessarily her eyes — it’s fractal, molecular biological and organic. Wilcox says her style layers structurally woven movement and patterns together to create a bold explosion of abstract expressionism.
Wilcox’s bold art matches her equally robust new studio. With a towering A-frame ceiling and sweeping open floor, the increased space allowed Wilcox to comfortably enlarge the scale of her paintings to her desired size. Wilcox now custom builds and stretches her own canvas.
“I like getting away from the limitations of commercially produced canvases,” says Wilcox. “The increase in size has been a natural progression of my work and, what’s more, the sizes and shapes are uniquely my own which is a valuable change overall.”
One of these custom-sized pieces, Wilcox’s largest works to date, will make its debut for one night only at a reception generously hosted by Trey Bistro. Wilcox says the event will be celebratory.
Guests will have wine to sip on while they admire the art and chat with Wilcox about her work. All of the pieces are looking for permanent homes. The works are priced to sell.
Wilcox says she hopes to welcome art enthusiasts from Columbia as well as from her new studio home, Jefferson City.
“There are not words to express how delighted I am when someone connects with a piece and wants to discuss my passion and life’s work with me,” says Wilcox. “Since I draw inspiration from a subconscious communication with the universe, that reciprocity affirms to me an energy I consider very necessary and sacred.”
_When: 6 p.m, Saturday_
_Where: Trey Bistro, 21 N. Ninth Street_