Out of the Box
August 22 – September 28, 2014
Photo of Out of the Box by Jason Neely
OUT OF THE BOX, the newest show at Spectrum Gallery and Store presents the work of artists who “break out” of the rectangular canvas, sculpt unique objects or shoot photographs of unexpected subjects. The five-week show, located at 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT includes an Open Reception, Friday, August 22 from 6:30-9 pm.
“OUT OF THE BOX is fun, funky and a bit macabre,” says Barbara Nair, Director of Spectrum Gallery. “This show gives us a window into the creative process of artists who take chances expressing themselves in unimaginable ways. Their work can mesmerize us with expressive and adventurous imagery.”
Artists participating in OUT OF THE BOX include Richard Malinsky, an abstract painter who literally “folds” his canvases to create richly-colored, lyrical works derived from organic growth forms and remembered or imagined landscapes. Amy Hannum, an artist who uses various mediums including translucent materials that play with light and shadow such as sculpting hand-cut sheet acrylic whose edges are flame-polished to maximize light reflection. Carol A. Watson, a painter and mixed media artist explores her “love affair with texture,” particularly surfaces that are rough and gritty. Painter Margaret vonKleist Emond creates large, semi-abstract, 3D painted wall sculptures evoking a sense of energy and wonder. Victoria Sivigny, an abstract painter and mixed media artist, was inspired to create an “out of the box” with found objects, fabric and metallic string. Painter Rick Silberberg who works in oil and acrylic presents abstract hangings and sculptural mixed media pieces.
Sculptors in OUT OF THE BOX include Ashby Carlisle, who builds both wall and freestanding works with clay, fiber, and paper scrolls to explore the ongoing relationship between man and nature. Jack Alberti creates sculptures of rich woods such as ebonized cherry, mahogany, Swiss pear and others, including dyed veneers, felt interior, marquetry, and clear lacquer finishes. Michael Bobbie, a sculptor who combines metallic and organic forms, presents his work Hatched, a sculpture of metal and woven twig. Artist William Vollers works with digital prints and found objects to create assemblages that take the form of free standing sculpture, wall reliefs or digital imagery, and David Corsini, an assemblage artist, incorporates found objects into unusual works such as wall hangings, large outdoor pieces, table sculptures and whimsical animals.
“There’s a sense of disbelief viewing this show, even a bit of discomfort with some of the work,” Nair notes. “And yet, we can’t take our eyes off these pieces.”
Photographers participating are George Fellner, who creates abstract works on infused dye metal prints with macro-photography of stones and crystals. Jonathan Steele uses the stacking method to create expansive natural landscapes. David McCarthy shoots at night with long exposures, to create his dramatic photographic light paintings, and Tom Kretsch presents his work “The Moo Series,” a group of animal images printed on acrylic.
Photo of Out of the Box by Jason Neely
Fine artisans showing in the Store at Spectrum Gallery include Anna Sidorow, a mixed media botanical artist; glass artists Francis Barkyoumb, Roger Gandelman, Carolyn Teschke, Pat Shorey and Carole Young; fabric artists include Kristen Walsh and bag designer Jennifer Tansley. Potters and ceramicists displaying work are Bonnie Beatrice, John and Kate Hull, Priscilla Palumbo, Nancy Scilipote, Margaret Ulecka-Wilson, and new to Spectrum, Wesleyan Potter “Key Member” John Lipsky. Jewelry designers in OUT OF THE BOX are Meg Brash, Eileen Clark, Jessica Dickens, Denise DiStefano, Jackie Koromhas, Melissa Punzalan, and Jean Rill-Alberto. Artisans working in polymer clay are Tricia Hamel, Meg Luddy, Marilyn Malcarne, and Gloria Nilsson. Others showing include wood carver Raymond Medeiros, pastel artist and home décor artisan Cynthia Streit Mazzaferro, and Maura Kallaway who makes artisan soaps.
Spectrum Gallery and Store is open Wednesday-Saturday (11am-6pm) and Sunday (11am-5pm). The Gallery is the newest expansion of the non-profit arts organization Arts Center Killingworth. In addition to offering classes, workshops, camps and presenting performing arts events, the Arts Center’s mission is to provide opportunities for emerging and established artists to display and sell their work.
The exhibition includes free Gallery events open to the public, including the Open Reception on Friday, August 22 (6:30-9pm). Spectrum holds its Origami Circle, Saturday, September 13 (11:30am-1:30pm) for $2 material fee with Spectrum Artisan Kristin Coombs. No experience necessary.