“Maria Britton: Exploring the Concept of Second Sleep”

**Artistry and Memory: Maria Britton at the Halsey Institute**

In her latest exhibition, “Second Sleep,” artist Maria Britton encapsulates a rich tapestry of themes woven through memory, dreams, and societal evolution. Hosted by the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston, this exhibition brilliantly showcases Britton’s transformative artistry, where discarded bedsheets emerge as evocative portals of reflection.

Maria Britton’s work delicately blurs the boundaries between painting and sculpture. Through her “Draperies” series, she transforms everyday materials—patterned bedsheets—into abstract, curtain-like paintings that hover between the past and the imagination. These textile-based creations invite viewers to reflect on the hidden stories and potential futures encapsulated within their folds.

The concept of “second sleep” serves as a vibrant theme within the exhibition. Historically, segmented sleep, or a period of wakefulness between two sleep cycles, allowed individuals to engage in various activities, from creative expression to mundane chores. This natural rhythm, overshadowed by modern industrial demands, forms the backdrop for Britton’s exploration of memory and creativity.

Britton’s artistry honors over a decade of innovation, emphasizing intuitive design over conventional methodologies. The exhibition features standout pieces like “Push Pull” (2024), a large-scale installation that exemplifies her ability to instill life and ambiguity into static materials. Other works, such as “Rest Note” (2024), with its detailed layering of acrylic, bedsheets, and thread, showcase her signature interplay of color and texture.

The support of the South Carolina Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts enriches this exhibition, further aided by the John and Susan Bennett Memorial Arts Fund. “Second Sleep” not only celebrates Britton’s artistic progression but also marks an invitation to contemplate the interplay between our domestic environments and our inner lives.

Art enthusiasts can explore Britton’s visionary transformation of the mundane into the profound at the Halsey Institute through July 25, 2026. For more details, visit [halsey.charleston.edu](https://bit.ly/4vNcnTp?ref=hyperallergic.com).