Weighting Room

Exploring Studio 21's exceptional artists through the eyes of guest curator Marianne Katzman. 

"I am honoured to be guest curating the exhibition Weighting Room for Studio 21. As an Art Dealer and Gallerist, being without a permanent location is a strange, often unnerving state, comparable to being in a waiting room. I recently moved to Halifax from Toronto, where I had a gallery for many years, so now there is an uncertainty with where and how I will situate myself. The opportunity to curate this exhibition for Studio 21 comes as a welcome and exciting process, to explore artists and works. I was invited to bring my curatorial style and vision, to explore the inventory, and select pieces that pair well with the Wine Tasting event Studio 21 is hosting on Valentine’s Day.

 The works selected meander through notions of the womb, flesh and figure, and seductive gestures contrasted by austere spaces and compositions. There is mystery and intrigue that seduce, while playful gestures delight, then all is grounded by stark structures and ominous forms."  

Marianne Katzman – ART DEALER/CURATOR

Marianne Katzman was the owner and director of Katzman Contemporary in Toronto for more than 10 years. Marianne represented a roster of more than 20 nationally and internationally recognized artists, managing their professional careers, art inventories and art sales. Since 2001, she served as a Commercial Gallery Curator and Manager, as well as a Private and Corporate Art Consultant. Marianne will be opening KATZMAN Art Projects, a contemporary commercial art gallery in Halifax, spring of 2023.

 Marianne Katzman is also the co-founder and artistic director of KONTORT Productions, a multidisciplinary arts entity that focuses on ephemeral performances, projects, events, and experiences. KONTORT produced such projects as “A Wake For Lost Time” with the Elephants Collective, CHANNEL I & II with Brett Despotovich, and “Duration & Dialogue I & II,” a performance art festival.

 Marianne taught Art Curation with The Magenta Foundation, focusing on providing opportunities to underserved communities.

 She maintains currency with the latest developments in the art world, both nationally and internationally, as well as recognizing up-and-coming artists. Her mandate is to promote brave ideas from Canadian artists, encourage the sale of experimental art and foster a new generation of collectors.