Denise Bohart: “Messages”; Melody Epperson: “Meandering”; Kathy Knaus: “The Days of Velvet Skies and the Smell of Lemons” will be on exhibit in our main gallery.
Artists’ reception Friday February 21, 6-9pm
Denise Bohart - “Messages”
The abstract glass sculptures Denise Bohart creates in “Messages” visually explore the information we receive from varied and infinite sources, how we interpret that information and how it informs our life choices. Denise states: This show began with an idea to change the narrative around a message I had been telling myself for years – that while I am an artist, I cannot draw. Until one day, after decades of repeating this message to myself, some part of me got brave enough to say, “but maybe I can learn?” From that small spark was born a two-year journey exploring figure drawing, and from there, this concept evolved.
The abstract glass sculpture in this show is inspired by messages like that – some positive, some more negative, but isn’t that judgment based on perspective? From vulnerable ideas of safety in one’s own body, to broader observations about the journey of life, the concepts explored here are very personal, but as writer James Joyce famously said, “In the particular is contained the universal.” Many of these artworks have stories that accompany them, but I encourage you to dive first into the experience of the artwork. Start there, before you begin interpreting my messages to you about my work. And remember – we don’t always know what the messenger will look like. Don’t miss the message because your blinders are on.
Melody Epperson - “Meandering”
Melody Epperson has spent countless hours exploring farms and open spaces, letting nature guide her artistic vision and deepening her connection to the land her ancestors once farmed. Meandering features a series of abstract encaustic paintings inspired by Melody’s weekly visits to farms on the Eastern Plains. Layers of wax and pigment reflect the history, soil, and farming practices that define this region. The plants of this landscape have profoundly influenced her work. Abstract lines in these pieces echo the fluid, meditative experience of reconnecting with the land while honoring its enduring stories.
Kathy Knaus – “The Days of Velvet Skies and the Smell of Lemons”
Kathy Knaus regards her artwork as an attempt to make sense of the chaos and beauty in the natural world. She seeks to celebrate nature and is in awe at how it withstands being battered, stepped on, stripped, and contaminated. Much like how society treats not only the earth but other human beings. Kathy appreciates the beauty and ugliness of our world. Through contemplation, she captures the yin and yang in nature through her mark making, use of color, movement of brush and palette knife in her artwork.
The reception to meet the artists will take place on Friday, February 21, 6-9pm
Additional Exhibition Events:
- Show Opens: February 13, 12-5pm
- Special Friday: February 14, 6-8pm “I HEART Art: a Valentine’s Day alternative” Make Valentines for your favorite artist while feasting on chocolates.
- Sundays on Santa Fe: February 23, 11-4pm
- Special Friday: March 1, 1-3pm “Cultivate your Soul”- seed planting and other soothing activities.
- First Friday: March 7, 5-9pm
- Last Look: March 9, 11-4pm
Banner Image: Kathy Knaus, “whole symphony of smaller sounds.” Acrylic on canvas; 36 x 36.