Artsbridge 13th Annual Juried Show
Lambertville, New Jersey's fine art scene is riddled with purists and traditionalists. If you're in the market for a watercolor painting of a farmhouse created en plein air or an oil on panel depicting flora and fauna, then this is your town ... and the time to visit is now. The Artsbridge 13th Annual Juried Show, a self-proclaimed assemblage of the area's most prominent artists, is opening at Riverrun Gallery on Saturday, June 30. The reception is from 6 to 9 p.m.
The show, albeit painting heavy, fairly represents and celebrates the energy of this river region. Unfortunately, that energy mostly encourages passive viewing. Yes, the displayed works are admittedly pretty and soothing -- often depicting that ideal escapism that most people, including myself, seek -- but the majority of the show falls short of challenging or inspiring the viewer. Then again, perhaps the viewer would be most pleased with an unchallenging piece of art that matches the couch?
Of the 105 included works, I'd like to tell you about 3 truly standout pieces. I'm sad to say that none of these works received awards or recognition from the selection committee, so artists, if you see this, know that somebody out there loved your stuff.
(1) Ann Calandro, "A" My Name is Annie
Using various combinations of plain and textured paper, ink, pencil, acrylic and watercolor paint, charcoal, fabric, ribbon, small objects and non-digital photographs, Ann has masterfully created a well-composed cityscape. This mixed/media collage is just bustling, and beautifully marries the real and imaginary.
(2) Woody Carter, Seated Nude
Charcoal is one of my favorite mediums -- it can be an absolute disaster to work with and easily distributes itself wherever it can -- but when controlled, as is the case with Woody's contribution to the exhibit, it can be effectively beautiful. This is also an example of negative space lending to good design; the tones have been reversed so the subject itself is blank while the space around it is completely shaded.
(3) Reny Willoughby, Reproduction of Zircen
This work is experimental pottery at it's finest and firmly helps to re-establish ceramics as a fine art medium. The burnt bulbous body of Reny's work gives way to 7 mouths, each with it's own varying degree of openness. Five of the passages are obstructed with white, egg-like nuggets, while the remaining 2 allow for internal examination. I might not be able to tell you what this all means, but take my word for it: this is a remarkable piece.
Enjoy the show, folks.
