14 Jane Pierce | Arts + Literature Laboratory | Madison Contemporary Arts Center

14 Jane Pierce

  • Jane Pierce by Tona Williams
  • Jane Pierce by Tona Williams

Jane Pierce Is Free

Tona Williams
Laser cut birch wood, iron oxide, tea, red wine, watercolor and oil pigments, copper wire, cold wax medium
$600

Artist Statement

I honor Jane Pierce, the most reluctant of our First Ladies, by setting her free. As she shunned public life, I envision her in a private place of beauty. Here, her aching heart has burst its bounds, expanding into fullness that connects to her beloveds. She looks towards the rift where her world breaks through its prescribed dimensions, knowing that within her chosen solitude, a universe awaits.

Jane Means Appleton Pierce was the wife of Franklin Pierce, who served as the 14th President of the United States from 1853 to 1857. Unhappy about her husband’s election to office and mourning the deaths of their three children, Jane spent most of this time avoiding the public eye.

About the Artist

I am a multimedia artist based in Madison, Wisconsin. My sculptural creations begin as sketches from my imagination that I engineer into interlocking layers with a laser cutter. I finish my wood pieces with natural tannins and iron oxide toning, layered pigments and protective cold wax medium. I also create laser cut acrylic forms, sculptural silver and copper jewelry, fine art photography and video projects. www.tonawilliams.com

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Arts + Literature Laboratory is located at 111 S. Livingston Street #100, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703.

Our galleries are open Tuesday through Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday noon to 5pm, and other programs take place throughout the week. Please check the events calendar and education section for details.

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