Sarasota Review

The Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College is showcasing "Lillian Blades: Through the Veil," an exhibition running from June 1 to October 26, 2025. This marks Lillian Blades' first solo museum show and her most ambitious project so far. The installation features a labyrinth of mixed-media veils suspended in the central gallery, inviting visitors to explore and reflect within its translucent layers.

Virginia Shearer, Executive Director of the Sarasota Art Museum, expressed enthusiasm for the exhibit, stating, “This exhibition is a great example of Sarasota Art Museum’s commitment to championing the work and supporting the careers of some of today’s rising artistic talents.” Shearer believes that "Through the Veil" aligns with the museum's mission to present pioneering exhibitions.

Blades employs various materials such as stained glass, wood, wire, spray paint, cut canvas, printed photographs, and jewelry in her sculptures. Light plays a crucial role in activating these works by reflecting off surfaces and passing through transparent elements. Blades described her art as "patchwork veils" that engage viewers through reflection and transparency.

Mirrors are used extensively in Blades' work to encourage contemplation and self-reflection. According to Blades, “Mirrors give the work a flickering quality and serve as a tool for bringing viewers back to the present moment.”

Blades' creative process involves cutting and painting numerous individual pieces before assembling them into intricate patterns. Her approach is likened to quilt making due to its rhythmic nature. Family and friends often assist her in this process.

Her inspiration stems from personal experiences and cultural heritage. The vibrant colors and imagery reflect her Bahamian roots and are influenced by her late mother’s legacy as a seamstress. Blades sees her work as a way to reconnect with personal histories.

Blades’ artwork has been exhibited internationally in galleries across the United States, The Bahamas, Trinidad, Germany, and South Africa. Notable public installations include those at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

The exhibition was organized by Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design with curation by Lacie Barbour. Public programs related to the exhibition include an opening day talk featuring artist Joe Fig on November 16.

The Sarasota Art Museum serves as a dynamic platform for contemporary art exploration since its opening in 2019. It offers extensive educational programs for all ages within its facilities located at 1001 South Tamiami Trail in Sarasota.