BFA student to show solo exhibit June 1 to 17 in Bellingham

To what extent can we express our relationship to our environment? "Personal Space," an exhibit of photography and mixed media sculpture, is the culmination of Western Washington University student Fiona Shearer's work in a year-long, self-directed study in pursuit of a bachelor's degree in fine arts.

Shearer's sculptures convey notions of space, the body and home, using such materials as ceramic, wood, fabric, wire and paper. The accompanying photographs in "Personal Space" investigate the sculptures using a macro lens and offer the viewer a glimpse into a world inaccessible through the naked eye.

The show runs from June 1 to 17 at Whatcom Winemakers in Bellingham. An opening reception will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 3.

Shearer's art is a method of investigating places and spatial relationships. Explorations span historical, cultural and ideological associations tied to the environment and look at the effects of humans on the places they inhabit, pass through or briefly visit.

Her work is influenced by her childhood in a small Seattle house. As her parents maintained their 100-year-old home, Shearer watched the city grow and flux around her. Her work often observes the transitory nature of the environment and questions her own and others' attachments to surroundings.

Whatcom Winemakers is located at 130 E. Champion St. in Bellingham. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.