'Reader's Art 11' opening at Susan Hensel Gallery

Josh Winkler; Monuments, Miracles, and Mega Folk Fauna

​There's never a dull moment in Susan Hensel's lineup of art exhibitions. Her gallery space in south Minneapolis may be small, but that doesn't prevent her from hosting big events. Opening this week is "Reader's Art 11," a recurring exhibition showcasing book artists. Hensel conceived of the idea in 2000, and though the theme of the show changes, it continues to be one of the gallery's biggest exhibitions 11 years later.

"Reader's Art 11" will feature 65 pieces of art by 29 local, regional, and national artists riffing on the theme "Urban/Urbane." For example, artist Kate Johnson's work Graffiti City was inspired by the street art in Minneapolis and how it can evoke life in the city. Josh Winkler's explores the sometimes silly or awkward disconnect between our landscapes by pointing out roadside attractions like giant fiberglass fish. "Reader's Art" will also feature Book Bombing, a collaboration between artists Mary Tasillo and Michelle Wilson in which they make books and pamphlets intended to be left in public spaces for people to discover. Mary plans to distribute her creations around town, so be sure to look for them.

Susan Davies

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Opening night will surely be fun. The Susan Hensel Gallery windows will feature paintings by Susan Davies. There will be take-home Book Bombs, and you'll even have the opportunity to help assemble 'zines and and meet artist Mary Tasillo.

"Reader's Art 11" opens Friday, March 4, with a free reception from 7 to 10 p.m. at Susan Hensel Gallery, 3441 Cedar Avenue South in Minneapolis.