2011 February » Artkestry

Margot Fass: Serious Messages Through Whimsical Play

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Feb 252011

Margot Fass, Little Froggy’s Woman

A few days ago I had a chance to stop by the Genesee CO-OP Federal Credit Union where Margot Fass’ works were showcased. Although it was challenging to navigate through the desks in order to study the pieces more closely, it was worth the effort.

I became familiarized with Margot Fass’ work by way of other local exhibitions. I was always pleasantly surprised then by her phantasmagorical ideas, as well as their artistic realization. Fass’ work may combine abstract, realism, and expressionism, as well as something else that is out of spectrum of academic conventions.

It seems that the artist enjoys incorporating an unusual media – textiles, costume jewelry, paper – into her oils. She does it elegantly and importunately, thus creating a harmonious dialog between various elements within the composition. My favorite was an entertaining Little Froggy’s Woman.

There were more works to study but they required an eyeful of attention, which I didn’t have time for at the moment. Maybe you will. Let me know what you discover at aida@artkestry.com.

Yours truly,
Aida

Great Impressions: The Print Club of Rochester Turns 80

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Feb 032011

The Print Club of Rochester Turns 80

Last day is March 21, 2011 in the Lockhart Gallery

Although the Wine and Spirit exhibition may be calling for your undivided attention, nevertheless keep heading for the Lockhart Gallery with the Great Impressions by The Print Club of Rochester.
The collection, which is owned by the Memorial Art Gallery, is comprised of the brilliant pieces created by high-end contemporary, 20th, and 19th century print makers. The show offers such an incredible variety of print textures that even a novice will appreciate.

I enjoyed studying Konstantin Chmutin’s Shells Number 5. I discovered that there was such an incredible tension between the two objects – an eggshell and a seashell – as if they were competing for their sense of purpose, usefulness, and beauty. Also, intricate textures and luscious forms of the shells placed against dark, solid background reminded me of some still-life and floral pieces produced by the Flemish Baroque masters – the genre and the period I admire.

Paul Resika, Boathouse With Mast

Paul Resika’s Boathouse With Mast bedazzled me. Unlike artist’s many high-contrasted and bright works, the Boathouse appears to be almost monochromatic. A subtle patch of light on the lower right forces the structures’ silhouettes rise awkwardly out of what may be dawn or dusk; and the soft flickers of light hug the whole composition so delicately.

Do you see what I see? Let me know: aida@artkestry.com

Yours truly,
Aida