Charlie Corley (they/them) is a born and bred Providencian, who has been working in the blue collar trades for three decades. As an artist they have found most of their work gears towards the textile side of things. They are excited to find the time and energy to take their metalworking skills and make larger sculptural pieces.
I’ve Gotten to Know This Town, 2018
hand embroidered floss on collaged fabric pieced and quilted on jean vest (embroidery floss, twine, cotton fabric, vintage vest)
Artist Statement:
I’ve Gotten to Know This Town took two years to embroider, it was made as wearable art for a lover of mine. I have been very lucky in my life to meet people who inspire me to create, and Skipper (the one I’m holding on the boat) is one of those cherished few.
Queer Creatures was made as a way to exercise some of my demons and creativity, there is nothing quite like getting metal red hot and hammering it to your will. I look at these little islands/pods as worlds splitting apart like pangaea, and wonder: What if these puzzle pieces stayed together? What happens after they spread further from each other? The term “Queer” title refers to both the identity and older definition of strangeness, an identity I hold closely to my heart.
Additional Info:
Artist’s Instagram: @Charlie Corley
Part of Growing the NetWorks
This artist was selected by a past NetWorks Rhode Island participant as part of Growing the NetWorks — a 2025 exhibition presented by WaterFire Providence, at the WaterFire Arts Center, celebrating peer-nominated artists from across Rhode Island. Learn more at waterfire.org/growingthenetworks
Highlighting the work of selected artists who have played vital roles in shaping the contemporary visual arts community in Rhode Island. This collection of brief video portraits provides a window into the lives, practices, and cultural contributions of professional artists.
