March 28 – May 9, 2026
Andrew Mowbray
Jean Smith
opening reception: Saturday, March 28, 3pm – 5pm
gallery hours: Fridays 12 – 4pm and by appointment
for more information: Call or text 617.835.8255
The conscientious designer, does not himself (herself/themself) design at all but rather give
the object-to-be a chance to design itself.
Anni Albers, 1958
These wise words from weaver and designer Anni Albers acknowledge her preference for work that is not self-conscious or arrogant, but instead draws inspiration from materials, history, and a deliberate focus on the act of making.
Drive-by Projects is pleased to present Humble Objects, an exhibition featuring Tyvek quilts by Andrew Mowbray and ceramic and wood sculptures by Jean Smith. Albers’s insights are essential to understanding these two artists, who do not simply depict objects but instead create works that are, in themselves, the object-to-be.
When Andrew Mowbray says, “I create objects that have a use”, he is very much in sync with Anni Albers and her focus on function. From his milk crate Shaker stools to his gourd birdhouses Mowbray has taught himself the skills necessary to make his work. Materials and process are the backbone of his practice. His Tyvek quilts take their shape and design from the nature of Tyvek itself. Familiar to us all, we can know how Tyvek feels, folds, etc. Mowbray uses that unnatural, synthetic, stuff to recreate the most comforting of homemade objects, quilts.
Jean Smith is a plain speaker, both in speech and in her artistic practice. “I make objects out of clay and wood that appeal to me. They often have a memory or feeling attached to them. It turns out they are mostly animals and shoes.”
When Smith says she “makes objects,” she virtually crafts pieces that distill the essence of her subjects. Cows, cats, birds, shoes, etc., all her works capture a sense of memory and connection. Brown Shoes, are poignant reminders of their wearer whose absence is felt as strongly by the viewer as it is by Smith herself.
Above:
Left: Jean Smith – ‘Chicken’, 2025, stoneware, 8″ x 7″
Right: Andrew Mowbray – ‘Roses’, 2026, Tyvek Home Wrap, thread, approx. 64″ x 44″
