John Mueller and Jill Mulholland awarded COAR 2024 residency

October 12 - 19

Anita Building, 1312 Commercial Street Astoria

In the seventh round of the Coastal Oregon Artist Residency (COAR) Jill Mulholland and John Mueller were selected. Each artist received a monthly stipend, materials, and a studio space at Recology Western Oregon’s Astoria Recycling Depot and Transfer Station for a four-month long residency beginning June 1, 2024.

Jill Mulholland of Long Beach often uses light as a three-dimensional medium. “I am fascinated with light’s beauty and its power to be felt on a bodily level, to elicit joy and/or bring us to another place,” she explains, “Light needs something to reflect upon or we cannot see it, so I combine light with found objects. I find interesting objects in garbage cans, flea markets, and junk stores; as gifts from friends; and when I am walking around outside. I rescue and keep these objects because some aspect of them intrigues me. My hope is that, by combining light and found objects, my art elevates these everyday items and they become beautiful, that viewers experience ordinary things in a new way, that they bring a smile and recognition in a joy of discovery.”

John Mueller of Astoria has a background in art metals and jewelry. His experience as a museum preparator in Austin, Texas profoundly influenced his approach to sculptural work. “These disciplines have ingrained in me a profound appreciation for the preciousness of materials, the significance of meticulous detail, and the power of presentation all of which are fundamental aspects that I infuse into my art. My mixed-medium sculptural pieces are meant to challenge conventional perceptions of art. They serve as a platform for my explorations into formal presentation, containment, and rarification concepts, as well as the transformative potential of utilitarian items. I strive to transform what is often overlooked into compelling, thought-provoking art, thereby pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.”

Both artists come to the Coastal Oregon Artist Residency with extensive educational credentials and significant histories of exhibiting their artwork professionally. Mulholland holds a Ph.D. in Architecture from Texas A&M University, and Mueller holds a BFA from University of North Texas.