Gwen Samuels is a mixed media artist based in Los Angeles. Originally from New York, she has a BFA in textile design from Syracuse University. Samuels’ work is inspired by close observations of her surroundings, and expressed through reformatted photography. Her work takes various forms, both two-dimensional and sculptural, with delicate hand stitching and multicolored free-hanging threads. Using familiar materials in unexpected ways, Samuels’ work is about transformation. By printing in repetitions on transparencies, she reconfigures shapes and patterns that interact with the light to create a unique visual experience.
Samuels has shown in numerous group exhibitions locally and nationally. These include a residency at the Torrance Art Museum, a group exhibition at the Palos Verdes Art Center titled Connective Threads, and a virtual exhibition The Other Art Fair. In 2022 Samuels was commissioned to create a 6’ x 4’ x 3” Kimono combining Japanese culture and patterning, inspired by Tapas Cloths made by Pacific Islanders for a Four Seasons Hotel on the Hawaiian island of Lanai.
Samuels’ international exhibitions include multiple shows in Seoul, South Korea, London, England, and Essen, Germany. She was also selected to participate in a two-year “Artist in Embassies” placement at the American Embassy in Greece. Her work has been featured in various publications including: Assembla Magazine, Shout Out LA, Modern Luxury San Diego, Art and Cake, Voyage LA, and the publication series Artistry in Fiber, Volume 1: Wall Art and Artistry in Fiber, Volume 2: Sculpture, from Schiffer Publishing.
