Artist Spotlight: Toni Reinis - Looking But Not Seeing

Toni Reinis, Trish, Clay w/patina, 19 x 11.5 x 11.5"

In her inaugural exhibition at TAG, Looking But Not Seeing, Toni Reinis tackles social issues that we observe but often overlook. The artist believes that one can look, but it takes wisdom, knowledge, and empathy to actually see and interpret the human form and facial expressions.Looking But Not Seeing focuses on matters such as depression, discrimination and military sexual trauma (MST). 

Toni Reinis, Solitary Confinement, Clay w/patina, 14.5 x 9 x 12"

Solitary Confinement, a rusted clay sculpture, depicts a man who is suffering months or years of isolation. Employing form and rough clay surfaces, Reinis challenges the viewer to empathize with this man, and question why society may have become complacent in his torture. The California constitution condemns the use of torture, yet prisons routinely utilize confinement as a justified form of punishment. Inmates have no shoes, no clothing, no writing instruments, nothing. As a result, suicide is not uncommon in these situations of excessive deprivation.

Toni Reinis, Manzanar, Clay w/patina, 16.5 x 11 x 8"

Toni Reinis’ sculpture begins with live models and clay. Finished pieces are fired and often cast into materials such as bronze, resin or liquid stone. The sculptures are refined with paint, organic objects and industrial finishes. Reinis utilizes her knowledge of the human form to enact intricate storytelling with each piece.

Toni Reinis, pledge of allegiance, Painted clay w/ fabric and metal, 63 x 12 x 12"

Through this body of sculptural work, Reinis aims to convey the stories of those she has met. Looking But Not Seeing promotes viewers to not just look at the work, but to be drawn in and understand the emotions and traumas of others.

Tuesday, April 17 - Saturday, May 12
Artist Talk: Saturday, April 28, 3 p.m.