Adding immeasurably to the new Pennington Health Sciences building at UNR is the “Biology is Technology” collection from artist Toni Lowden. These pieces, five paintings and one tapestry, blend references to biological cells, computer technology and the expanse of the universe. [The] Pennington Health Sciences … building is now unimaginable without them, especially the tapestry, which has been on view from the lobby for many events and celebrations, and never fails to garner praise and admiration.

Toni Lowden’s Little Big Bang fiber sculpture was created in response to an exhibition of artist Leo Villareal’s LED sculptures shown at the Nevada Museum of Art.
Whereas Villareal’s work is activated by light, color, and movement, Lowden broke down the essential structure of the work and recreated it in beautiful metallic Toho beads floating on a dark blue background. Little Big Bang not only pays homage to Villareal but also reflects Toni’s interest in the microcosmic world.

During the summer of 2016, I took a course titled Summer Intensive: Tapestry Weaving with artist Toni Lowden at the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno. This introductory course in tapestry weaving was so enjoyable that I, along with several classmates, requested a second course be taught the following month […]. These courses were immensely successful for me and my growth as an artist and an individual. Toni taught us the basics of woven tapestry, explored the fundamentals of good design, and immersed us into a collaborative experience that truly fostered individual growth and exploration. I have gained new friends and artistic skills as a result of these courses but most importantly, I feel that I’ve taken a substantial step forward in my life as an artist. […] I sincerely hope to attend future tapestry weaving intensives taught by Toni Lowden.