Visit the Exhibit - Fear & Hope
At the Firehouse Gallery
Sat/Sun Oct. 19, 20, 26, 27 12-5pm
Artists were called to respond to the theme of Fear & Hope:
“Art is a powerful communicator, it can express emotion and it can also bridge divides. Choose whether you see the cup half empty – or half full. Do you need to share your fears and frustration, or do you want to share hope and possibility. Let your art do the talking, and become part of the conversation.”
The response was remarkable – personal, local, national and global concerns are explored – as you will see when you visit gallery at the opening or during normal gallery hours.
The Exhibit Judge, Cathy Liontas
The Judges Statement
This is an amazing show.
It comes at an important time as most of us struggle with the uncertainty of the future of our country, our world and the challenges facing us such as wars, political unrest, gun violence. I think we all have so many inner fears going on right now and are hoping for resolutions and a better future for all of us.
Throughout history artists have tackled these difficult subjects. They’ve been censored, jailed, outcast from society, but still they kept delivering their message and speaking their truth.
Many courageous artists tackled the difficult job of creating works of art that depict the theme of either Fear or Hope. Some combined both into their works. As you can see there’s no shortage of emotion or originality in this room tonight and I was amazed by all of these beautiful, compelling pieces of art.
– Cathy Liontas, www.cathyliontas.net
Awarded Works
Click each image in this gallery to view the complete piece, its title and the artist’s statement about the piece.
The works shown in this exhibit are for sale through the MAC office unless marked “Sold” or “NFS”.
Judge's Award Descriptions
1st Place: Paradise Lost by Stephen Olson.
This oil painting depicts a large figure dressed in clown clothes holding 3 separate masks. Behind him men are scrambling up a castle like wall. He stands upon an American flag that is melting or bleeding down upon people below who seem imprisoned or not even aware of what is happening.
Whether you agree or disagree with the message which is very political in nature, it’s the kind of painting that will stir up your emotions. The more you look at it, the more questions you might ask of the artist’s intention or more importantly of how you respond to a work like this.
Stephen used bold color choices and a strong composition to express his feelings. He showed great skill in rendering recognizable faces and images. He experimented with the properties of paint by having it run in places. He shouted out his fears uncensored. I found myself remembering, even feeling haunted by these images long after I stopped looking at this painting. For this reason, I chose “Paradise Lost” by Stephen Olson, as first place winner.
2nd Place: Don’t Shoot by Kiko Hernandez
This is an acrylic painting depicting a scene from the movie The Pianist, where Wladislaw Szpillman hides out from the Nazis and is discovered by Russian troops. The black background accentuates the outline of a body, tense, fearful with calloused cold hands raised upward in surrender. His eyes are tired, his hair gray and frozen in places. Kiko cropped the painting for maximum impact, eliminating unnecessary details. The use of a limited palette added to the sense of isolation.
His brushwork is masterful. He conveyed the tension and moment where everything can change. Fear could turn to hope finally. For these reasons I chose Don’t Shoot, by Kiko Hernandez for second place.
3rd Place: Stop by Franklin Silva
This beautiful oil painting done mostly in black and white (except for the sneakers), shows a child cowering in fear cradled or caught by loving hands. The artist said, “It’s about war. Which still happens in most parts of the world.” Franklin shows us how isolating and fearful war can be especially to children.
This piece reminded me of Kathe Kollwitz’s work. She was a German artist. (printmaker, sculpture, painter) 1867-1945 and depicted the effects of war poverty and hunger. This painting asks the question, “Can we stop the war and protect the innocent. Can we have hope?” I chose “Stop” by Franklin Silva for third place because it is a strong and beautiful painting done with great skill and compassion.
Honorable Mentions
The judge awarded four honorable mentions in the show.
Click each image in this gallery to view the complete piece, its title and the artist’s statement about the piece.
Reception Photos
Click to enlarge
Open door at twilight for the Firehouse Gallery
Fear & Hope reception
Fear & Hope 2 HMs
Stephen Olsen with "Paradise Lost", 1st Place
Fear & Hope reception 2
Visitors viewing artwork and chatting.
Fear & Hope reception 3
Artist with awarded work.
Fear & Hope reception 4
Artist with awarded work.
Visitors chatting.
Fear & Hope Announcements
Fear & Hope Exhibit Opening Recepton Oct 2024
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