Mary Claire Ramirez Wins artcritical Prize at PAFA, Discusses Hybrid Art Practice in Studio Interview

Mary Claire Ramirez, a graduating MFA student at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, received the inaugural 2015 artcritical prize, determined by faculty vote for special editorial exposure. In a conversation with faculty member Michael Gallagher, Ramirez discussed her artistic evolution from painting to mixed-media works incorporating sculpture, photography, and found objects. Her practice explores the hybrid nature of image and object, challenging distinctions between 2D and 3D through installations that create nonlinear narratives. Ramirez uses materials ranging from studio detritus to sophisticated imaging techniques, employing appropriation and assemblage to examine concepts of privilege and socio-economic access. She describes her work as "discreet objects that morph," creating connections through proximity in installation spaces. A specific piece titled "The Generous Gambler," made from a discarded coat button and epoxy putty, references a Charles Baudelaire poem and explores themes of seeing and being seen. Ramirez emphasizes viewer engagement, stating she likes to "give the viewer a lot of credit" and creates work that "slightly outpaces my own understanding." She will participate in the group exhibition "And Many More" at 33 Orchard on New York's Lower East Side, opening June 17, 2015, curated by PAFA's Jodi Throckmorton. Her work is featured in PAFA's 114th Annual Student Exhibition at 118-128 North Broad Street in Philadelphia from May 15 to June 7, 2015.