R. Scott Long & Betsy Youngquist Toy with New Art in Kortman Gallery...opening First Friday, February 5th

The dictionary defines “toyed” as a verb meaning to amuse oneself as if with a toy. That sense of playful energy that motivates Rockford artists R. Scott Long and Betsy Youngquist can be experienced in “Toyed,” an exhibition of new works opening Friday, February 5th in the Kortman Gallery.

The exhibition will showcase three-dimensional pieces by both artists, many of them collaborative, that were, according to the artists, as fun to make as they are to see.
“When we toy with materials and ideas as artists, we play,” says Youngquist. “Playing and experimenting, along with light-hearted day dreaming, are part of the creative process with the works in this exhibition. This playful attitude, without the weight of any expectation, resulted in these exuberant, high-spirited pieces.”
Youngquist has earned an international reputation for her beaded works of art that are often created on sculptural elements fabricated by sculptor/collaborator R. Scott Long. In this exhibit, Long will also be showing his own art works.
“I’ve created these mixed-media sculptures, many of them kinetic and made from repurposed found objects, that are evocative of vintage toys,” said Long. “They are works of art that, some of which, you can actually play with.”
Doc Slafkosky, Kortman Gallery director, says the “Toyed” exhibit should appeal to a broad audience. “Whether you’re a serious collector or just enjoy seeing art, this colorful, playful, beautifully executed exhibit will be a visually entertaining, exciting, and even magical experience,” says Slafkosky.

The Kortman Gallery exhibit “Toyed” by R. Scott Long & Betsy Youngquist will open First Friday, February 5th, 5:30 to 9pm and will be on display through March 20th. Kortman Gallery is located upstairs at J. R. Kortman Center for Design, 107 North Main Street in Downtown Rockford.

J.R. Kortman Center for Design pays tribute to industrial designer Richard Sapper

From the Tizio lamp to Alessi's Bollitore Water Kettle, industrial designer Richard Sapper has brightened our lives with his sturdy, functional, and beautiful products that have sustained their relevance, value, and elegance. Mr. Sapper died on December 31st, 2015. J. R. Kortman has been selling Sapper designed products since we first opened in 1986. The now classic water kettle Bollitore, in 1986, was priced at $95, and is still available at J. R. Kortman. Today it retails for $330. The kettle, and many other Sapper designs, are in permanent museum collections around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

"The Monday Night before Christmas"...a Holiday Shopping Party...Monday, December 21st, 6-9pm! Fun shopping @ J. R. Kortman!

 ‘Tis the Monday Night before Christmas, and all through the store,
a multitude of gifts for you to Explore!

You are invited to a Holiday Shopping Party this Monday evening, December 21st, from 6-9pm. We want to help make your Christmas shopping experience FUN. The Kortman Gallery Bar will be open (hosted by Dennis Horton) and we can gift wrap for you. Shop in a relaxed atmosphere...AND when you make a purchase receive a complimentary holiday beverage, and you can reach into Santa’s grab bag and receive a gift from Santa that might be Naughty or Nice...it could be anything from a pearl bracelet, a fun toy, something cool or something cruel...or even a lump of coal!!! Find out what Santa thinks of you this Monday Night before Christmas at J. R. Kortman Center for Design!