The Blast Factory announced today that The Century House will carry a limited group of original Stick Vega gunpowder and fuse explosion art.  The Century House features modern furniture and contemporary gifts along with Scandinavian design in their three showrooms in Madison, WI.

"We are very pleased to host such a talented local artist and feel a strong connection between Vega's work and our overall aesthetic. Since our founding by a local art teacher in 1948, The Century House has always been a place to explore art, design and the modern lifestyle." noted Jacob Harlow, General Manager of The Century House.

Eight original artworks will debut at the 3029 University Avenue showroom starting Feb. 20th.  A group of color groove paintings and a couple of mod-floral pieces will be presented.

"I am really excited to see my "pop" expressionist artworks presented with some of the many classic, modern, and cool furniture pieces that are at The Century House. The look of this style and my work is a fantastic pairing", said Stick Vega.

Known for his explosion paintings, Stick Vega makes use of  layering and texturing techniques while employing gunpowder and fuses to to burn bold outlines and vibrant colors.

The combined art exhibit and retail installation is slated to run through May.  These artworks will only be available for purchase at The Century House.

Christine Olson is a time-based artist residing in Madison, WI.  She stopped by The Blast Factory to witness my process and watch the creation of a Stick Vega.

As we developed the piece, Renee and I learned about Christine and her art. Recently Christine has toured and performed with Non Grata as a participant in the Diverse Universe Nomadic Performance Art tour in Finland and Estonia.  She performs and trains in Chicago and New York City. Her interests are Butoh, Deco and the surreal.  See her work here Christine Olson.

As we prepared to light the fuse our discussion centered on the challenges and the opportunities of a performance artist in Madison.

Then, fuse.

Stencils.

Gunpowder.

More fuse.

Christine lit the fuse!

Boom!

Clean the debris.

Christine liked the work and bought the piece.

Renee and I really enjoyed meeting Christine and are impressed with her dedication and work. She is pretty cool.   And I hope we can do a group event in the future.

Christine noted, "Just wanted to say thanks! So great to meet the both of you and see the great things that you are doing in Madison and thanks for being so open and sharing."

Renee and I feel the same way!  Seek out her work.