May 13–July 8, 2023

Poetry Reading: Friday, May 19, 6 PM, with poet Adrian Arancibia

JOSEPH CLAYES III GALLERY

WENDELL KLING: A CORUSCATING SANCTUARY

Wendell Kling transforms the Athenaeum's gallery and windows with light, color, and cut paper silhouetted imagery to create a peaceful, contemplative retreat. Taking inspiration from temples of various belief systems, A Coruscating Sanctuary provides a platform for the activities that take place within. Kineto-luminescent furnishings and lights orient participants to the central “altar” and matching lectern. Here, the sanctuary invites visitors to participate in quiet reflection, readings, and occasional activations in the exchange of philosophies through poetry, sound, movement, and performance.

Wendell M. Kling is a Southern California based interdisciplinary artist and educator. Kling's work is grounded in contemporary interdisciplinary practice that often incorporates sculptural objects with two-dimensional media, installation, performance, and film. The artist received a BA and MFA in studio art from UCSD in 1989 and 2000 respectively and has exhibited locally and nationally at the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, Ship in the Woods, Bread & Salt, Art Basel Miami (2005), Thrust Projects in New York, and MAK Center for Art and Architecture in Los Angeles. Kling is currently professor of sculpture and new genres at San Diego Mesa College.

The exhibition can be viewed in the Joseph Clayes III Gallery at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall Street, La Jolla, CA 92037) during open hours, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.