(In)Visible Structures
A Solo Exhibition by Rebecca Rutstein
April 10 – May 31, 2025
Opening Reception: Thursday, April 10 from 6-8pm
(In)visible Structures is a solo exhibition of paintings by Rebecca Rutstein. Working at the intersection of art and science, Rutstein’s artistic practice visualizes environmental processes that connect and sustain all life on earth despite being invisible to the naked eye. This exhibition draws from Rutstein’s established body of works inspired by oceanic voyages with scientists, presenting her Kama’ehuakanaloa Series painted at sea during an expedition off the coast of Hawaii in 2023. Rutstein also presents two new paintings signaling her current artistic explorations: Brine Forest (2025) is a mesmerizing composition based on Rutstein’s artistic research with scientists studying the microscopic activity within salt channels in Arctic sea ice. Shape Shifter (2025) pulsates with a network of interconnected abstract patterns inspired by underground fungal networks that enable trees to communicate and are integral to the forest ecosystem. Rutstein’s works inspire contemplation and awe while also fostering knowledge and respect for the hidden processes at work in the natural world.
(In)visible Structures is curated by Heather Moqtaderi, Interim Director of Environmental Art
Works on view in this exhibition are Courtesy of the Bridgette Mayer Gallery
About Rebecca Rutstein
Rebecca Rutstein is a multidisciplinary and environmentally-focused artist whose practice bridges art, science and technology. For over 20 years she has created painting, sculpture, interactive installation and public art inspired by the natural world. Her work sheds light on places and processes hidden from view to foster deeper connection and stewardship in the face of our climate crisis. Rutstein’s scientific collaborations have taken her around the world including 8 ocean expeditions and 3 deep-sea dives in the Navy-owned Alvin submersible, supported by the National Science Foundation.
A Pew Fellowship in the Arts recipient with recognition from the National Endowment for the Arts, she has been featured on NPR, ABC, NBC, CBS, and in the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Huff Post, Vice & Vogue magazines. Rutstein’s work has been exhibited internationally in more than 40 solo shows, and can be found in over 50 public collections including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Georgia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, National Academy of Sciences, US Department of State, and US Consulate in Thailand. Rutstein received a BFA from Cornell University, an MFA from the University of Pennsylvania, and is represented by Bridgette Mayer Gallery in Philadelphia.