Stations of the cross
On Display in the gallery Now thru Saturday, April 19th
Justin Teel
On Display in the Gallery now thru April 30th
As an artist, I believe that creativity is a journey shaped by an individual’s experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Each piece of artwork is an extension of one’s past, present, and future, constantly evolving as our inspirations and knowledge shift over time. My work reflects this journey—a constant search for the most authentic way to express complex ideas and feelings. I feel that art should not be confined to one medium or concept, but should be a reflection of the diverse and ever-changing nature of the human experience.
Texture plays a central role in my creative process. To me, texture can represent more than just a physical surface—it becomes an integral part of the idea itself, drawing attention to the subtleties of the work and prompting the viewer to reconsider their perception. Whether it’s a tactile quality or a visual one, texture allows me to engage with the viewer’s emotions and thoughts, inviting them to explore a deeper connection with the work.
The process of constructing and deconstructing photographs is a key subject matter in my practice. By breaking down and reassembling images, I challenge the notion of permanence and stability in photography. The act of destruction opens up new possibilities for interpretation, allowing me to explore themes of memory, identity, and perception. I seek to reveal the hidden complexities of photographs, transforming them from mere representations to dynamic, evolving pieces that invite viewers to see beyond the surface.
The space surrounding an artwork also carries immense significance in my practice. It interlocks with the subject, creating a unified concept that transcends the boundaries of the piece itself. By focusing on the process, construction, and space around the artwork,I believe we can unlock its full potential, encouraging viewers to reevaluate their understanding and immerse themselves in the narrative unfolding before them.
For me, art is not just about creating an image, photograph, or sculpture; it’s about connecting with the audience on a deeper level, offering them an opportunity to reflect, wonder, and engage with the complex world around them.
Artist Statement
Malissa Long’s artistic practice explores transformation through textile arts, bridging functional craft and conceptual expression. Inspired by eco-dying, fabric manipulation, and wearable design, she creates work as a storyteller of social landscapes. Each piece emerges from a careful dialogue between technique and intention, whether mapping healthcare disparities, exploring community narratives, or revealing the hidden potential of overlooked materials.
Drawing from her background in fashion and years of textile instruction, she views fabric as a medium of connection and narrative. Through upcycling, natural dying, and innovative stitching, her work challenges viewers to reconsider the potential of textiles, transforming simple materials into powerful statements that illuminate personal and collective experiences. Each artwork becomes an invitation to look closer, to understand the complex stories woven into the seemingly simple act of creation.
Artist Biography
Malissa Long is a multifaceted mixed media artist specializing in fiber arts and wearable design. With a B.S. in Fashion Merchandising from Sam Houston State University, she has built an impressive career spanning textile arts, instruction, and creative innovation. A versatile artist and educator, Malissa has been recognized multiple times for her unique approach to fashion and textile design, including being named RAW Austin Fashion Designer of the Year in 2012 and a featured designer at Kansas City Fashion Week.
Currently based in Haysville, Kansas, Malissa is actively involved in the local arts community, serving on multiple boards and committees, including the Haysville Library Board and as Treasurer of the Kansas Artists Network. Her work blends technical skill with creative expression, often incorporating eco-dying techniques, innovative fabric manipulation, and upcycling. She has been an artist-in-residence at Botanica Gardens and continues to develop cutting-edge textile art that challenges traditional boundaries between fashion, art, and social commentary.