Ruth Bolduan: Costume, Landscape and Memory in Monterey

January 21 – May 6, 2012

The ongoing continuum of fashion’s evolution is an influential presence in Ruth Bolduan’s work, incorporating aspects of history, feminism, and socio-political power. The “reading” of costume and the subsequent painting of costume have become Bolduan’s method for a re-examination of the past, incorporating aesthetic insight with contemporary global issues and ideas.

The meaning of any costume collection is not always obvious without a grasp of its history. Through Ruth’s paintings, visitors to the Museum of Monterey will experience a fresh interpretation of the history and lives of the people in the Monterey area.

Bolduan’s recent paintings of women clothed in 18th century attire will be exhibited this season at the Mount Clare Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. The exhibition at the Museum of Monterey will further develop the theme of reading history through costume, based on the museum’s collection.