Artist and BCA Gallery Committee member Sally Linder, who nominated Blasdel for the award, writes, “His art is imaginative, thought-provoking and expertly executed. Moving from sculpture to printmaking and presently exploring new mediums, Gregg constantly challenges himself and the viewer's comfort zone. While many artists of Gregg's caliber are promoting their art and their career, he has been supporting the Vermont community of artists and art students through his associate and assistant professorships at St. Michael's College and the University of Vermont respectively.”Gregg Blasdel has been a part of the Vermont art scene since the 1970s. He received his MFA from Cornell University in 1967, and taught at the Whitney Museum in New York City soon after. He relocated to Vermont in the 1970s to teach art at the University of Vermont and then St. Michael’s College in the 80s. Blasdel has lectured around the country about art and architecture and his drawings, sculpture and prints have been exhibited around New England and in New York City.
Gregg Blasdel lives in Burlington, Vermont with his wife and frequent collaborator Jennifer Koch, owner of Frames For You And Mona Lisa Too. Gregg and Jennifer are currently participating as artists and project coordinators along with artist Sumru Tekin in a joint project between Flynn Center and Burlington City Arts, called the 30/30 Anniversary Print Project, opening January 6th at the Amy E. Tarrant Gallery in Burlington.
As the recipient of the 2012 Barbara Smail Award, Blasdel will receive $1,000 and use of Burlington City Arts’ facilities for one year, which include the Print and Clay Studio at 250 Main Street and the BCA Community Darkroom. Friends and family of Barbara Smail, a well-loved and highly respected artist from the Burlington area who died in the fall of 2001, established the Barbara Smail Award. The award is given to a mid-career Vermont-based artist who has a desire to expand his or her creative experience and has displayed an enthusiastic support of his or her peers. Previous award winners include Carol MacDonald, Jennifer Koch, Diane Gabriel, Catherine Hall, Lynn Rupe, Peter Gallo, Jude Bond, Anthony Sini and Kat Clear.
