PHILADELPHIA (August 4, 2010) - This fall, fashion is given a new edge at Saint Joseph’s University’s Gallery, where award-winning sculptor C. Pazia Mannella’s fiber art sculptures will be shown from Aug. 30 to Sept. 23. Entitled “Conviction of Vanity,” the show features sculptures that can be worn on the body, mimicking high-end fashion and costuming. An artist’s reception will be held Thursday, Sept. 9, from 6 – 8 p.m.

Mannella’s pieces are made from everyday materials – like coffee filters and zippers – and take influence from the world of haute couture design. She employs techniques similar to the intricate hand construction, sewing and fastening used in premier fashion shows and photography to create her works, while suggesting a new perspective for the viewer by highlighting the changes clothing has seen over the years.

“The term ‘clothing’ implies protection against the elements and preservation of modesty,” Mannella says. “In the course of history, clothing has also become a means of seduction by enhancing nature or adding artificial attraction. [It] functions beyond simple utility.”

“Conviction of Vanity” will feature several of Mannella’s sculptures, including machine-sewn zippers and “I’ll Be Your Mirror,” a reflective assembly of mirror paillettes that forces the viewer to participate in the work simply by standing in front of it. For the artist, her sculptures are a means of delving into the way cultures tap into the power of dress.

“I want to break from the trend of universal uniformity and create innovative and unique works of contemporary art to address these topics,” she says.

“Mannella’s expertise for transforming mundane objects into eye-catching sculptural works is fascinating,” says Jeanne Bracy, coordinator for the SJU Gallery. “She sees beyond the normal use of objects and has a creative eye for taking everyday materials to make free-flowing, wearable art. Her work highlights the beauty of unique, hand-made pieces.”

Mannella currently serves as an adjunct assistant professor at Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, where she earned her M.F.A. in fiber work in 2008. Her work has been shown at university and local galleries throughout Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, and in Opole, Poland.

The Saint Joseph's University Gallery is located in Boland Hall on Lapsley Lane, off of City Avenue, between 54th Street & Cardinal Avenue in Lower Merion. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information, call 610-660-1840, or visit http://www.sju.edu/gallery.