cal navin . artist . fiber . mixed media

Friday, September 27, 2024

THE WHIMSICAL ART OF Cal Navin, Dick Cruger and Joe Jackson

Life in retirement. Exhibition with two wonderful artist and friends at the new Design West building, GM Technical Center July 18, 2024. It was truly a pleasure to show with these two artist Dick Cruger and Joe Jackson and to see my tapestries hung for the first time. Being at the design building it wasn't open to the public, but we were able to invite a few friends. Wish many more could have come. The first exhibit in the new design building was pretty special for all of us. Here are the photos of my work, we each got photo's of our own work, I don't have Dick or Joe's photo's to share. Enjoy, it was an honor.

Myself and Joe Jackson

Dick Cruger

Thursday, April 4, 2024

GENERAL MOTORS NEW DESIGN WEST BUILDING COMMISSION WORK

There have been a few times in my life which I’ve been so honored and proud, it’s almost hard for me to put into words. This is one of those times. Many of you know I spent 42 years at GM, 22 years with Design Staff. I’m beyond grateful and so thankful to have been a part of the General Motors Design West, new building art project. A special thanks and gratitude to Michael Simcoe senior VP Design for selecting me, trusting me and supporting my creative vision. A huge shout out to the fabrication team, the wood shop, trim shop and paint shop and all the project coordinators. To Natalie Morath and Christoper Webb and the many others that saw this project through completion. I’m truly humbled. I have always loved and been proud to have worked for such a company that only helped one realize their dreams, and I’ve had many realized, I had the best career anyone could have asked for.
The pieces I share with you are two 28’ x 8’ wall installations. Titled, “ GM BLUES”, “COLOR MY DAY” . I designed both walls in Alias, and chose the color palette. The paint I chose is car urethane with a clear coat over that. The next piece was a dream for me as I was able to collaborated with my sister Liz Matthew’s and my brother Frank Navin, a 12’ X 4’ front and back tapestry titled “ STRATUM” which truly was a labor of love for all of us. I also left behind two murals for the design center parking garage. I am truly blessed to leave these pieces of me in a place I loved so much.

Sunday, February 4, 2024

Textiles and Tapestry Work

"Katherine" 29.5" X 20"

As a mixed media, 3D, and fiber artist, my work is deeply rooted in the exploration of themes that resonate with both our collective consciousness and individual experiences. Using the chimpanzee as my primary motif, I delve into their rich symbolism, which embodies our innate connection to nature, our emotional depth, and our shared social structures. These remarkable beings not only provide a window into our evolutionary past but also serve as a reminder of the importance of empathy, community, and conservation in our rapidly changing world. Chimpanzees evoke a range of emotions, curiosity, joy and sorrow, and a profound sense of kinship. Through my art, I strive to capture these sentiments, inviting the viewers to reflect on their own relationships with the natural world and the beings that inhabit it. The tactile nature of my mixed media work encourages engagement, from the soft fibers to the robust 3D elements, each piece beckons the audience to reach to reach out, touch, and connect. I believe that art should be an immersive experience, a conversation between the creator and the viewer that transcends words. My use of mixed media allows me to incorporate various textures and materials, symbolizing the diverse aspects of life and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Each artwork is a labor of love, woven together with threads of personal history, cultural influences, and environmental awareness. In creating art centered around the chimpanzees, I aim to raise awareness about the challenges these incredible creatures face due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. By strategically placing my work in community spaces, galleries, and educational venues, I hope to spark conversations about conservation and inspire collective action. I believe that art has the power to foster change, and by highlighting the plight of chimpanzees, I aspire to encourage compassion and empathy towards all living beings. Ultimately, my art is an invitation, a call to recognize the intricate connections we share with each other and the natural world. I hope that through my work, viewers will not only appreciate the beauty of these magnificent animals but also feel inspired to take part in protecting their habitats and advocating for their rights. Together, we can create a more harmonious world, one where art, nature, and humanity coexist in balance.