If you haven’t yet travelled to Munson (310 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502) to see Celestial Bodies, then I will say you’re welcome in advance because, well, it is that magnificent.  I trust you will love it too.

New Yorker Karen LaMonte graduated from RISD then began a journey that took her from a glass blowing workshop in New Jersey to Prague to international fame as a sculptor.  She has won numerous awards and fellowships for this impressive body of work.

She works in glass, stone, bronze – working with experts as a team to produce life-sized female forms.  The headless sculptures are exquisitely draped gowns.  Although they resemble Greek caryatids, they are incredibly modern in design – ruched halter tops, asymmetrical sleeves, the appearance of stitched seams and floral embroidery – OMG, they are spectacular.

In addition to the life-sized items, there are quarter-sized miniatures.  They are so beautifully feminine.  As I viewed the show, I imagined myself wearing these gowns because each one was a perfect #ootd.  And because they were missing someone else’s head and arms and were clearly my size, it was an effortless phenomenological vision that induced movement, dance, joy and above all, elegance.  A girl can dream….

Karen LaMonte is my new favorite artist.

Munson is open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Sunday noon – 5:00 PM.  Call (315) 797-0000 for more information.

Celestial Bodies:  Sculpture by Karen LaMonte will be on view through December 31, 2025.