Event Details
Last day to visit The Piedmont Art Show
By Dan Cassano, a Somers resident
According to Show Chairman, Neil Connell there were over 159 submissions for this year’s 33rd Regional Juried Piedmont Art Show. From a firefighter walking tall on a 6 foot canvas to a small color pencil sketch of toy animals; it was a tough call for Juror, Ted Fijal to decide what will be included in this year’s Art Show presented by the Somers Cultural Commission. I was surprised and intrigued by what I saw.
Artist, Lynita Smiizu’s Abstract “Red sail in the Sunset” is not immediately recognizable. At first look, Modern architecture came to mind. This artwork is not achieved with a paintbrush. It is a surprising wood cut of beauty. My first view of a woodcut was in an exhibit in 1978 by Easthampton artist, Gary Howe. Bar room scenes were carved into wood, inked and printed on white paper as a single stand alone image. His printmaking has come a long way since 1978, and artist Smiizu has taken it to a level of craftsmanship that I am not qualified to accurately describe. Juror Figal describes “Hillscape” her other woodcut print, “a beauty composed minimalistic woodcut w/ elegant geometric shapes and subtle color – Very Zen like! ” I believe her artwork will grow more to be appreciated well into the 21 century.
In another “sailing” subject, Susan Superson presents an impressionistic seascape with her boat as an accent on the horizon. A distant sighting, part mirage, pink and blue light bending in front of a pale green wash atmosphere. Is a loved one near the shore waiting? In “Almost Home”, Superson’s red sail craft might represent a quiet hope, a reassuring end to a long day, and a growing anticipation of a reunion. (Come and see for yourself and engage your own narrative.)
Fire and Ice
An almost life size oil painting of a wildland firefighter is returning from the front lines. Imagine any one of the record-breaking numbers of firestorms seen from the Northwest United States and much of Europe this past summer. From the fire shovel to Artist Paul Leveille’s palette knife, the commanding presence of “World on Fire” makes me wonder how long will these brave men and women continue their unconditional work to protect our homes and property? Can art start a productive dialogue? Will it spark collaboration with other nations, rekindle American ingenuity to solve the overwhelming climate crisis?
In contrast, there are seven winter-themed creations that offer a sense of hope from which nature (especially in New England) demonstrates the need for balance and renewal.
Juror Figal describes Neil Connell’s “Snowfall”: confident, brushstroke and pleasant tonal values captures the crisp, quiet essence of a beautiful now filled winter day.
Artist Mattingly triggers your memory of the peaceful awe looking out the window when the first white crystals fill out space with white beauty in “Little House in the Big backyard”.
After autumn and nature comes to a breathless standstill, artist Joyce Benson’s piece “Owl in the Winter” demonstrates nature’s magical ability to blend in. And only when we take a long pause, can we really see the nearly invisible “hooter”.
“Ascension” will challenge all of your senses, internal and external. Michael Chiarvalle’s vertical abstract and surreal painting is almost hidden in the gallery. Is it a doorway view to a station resembling a place from which all souls shall pass. Muted reds and blue swirls slowing or the life force rising as whiffs of smoke. Small faces appear unhappy, a deep sadness...thoughts give way to a purgatory or as Tibetan Buddhists believe, a “world in between” from which some will journey. For others, it could seem like a dreadful end to an inevitable state of confusion, the last stage before surrendering to the void. Others may be challenged by “a true initiation never ends” where faith may provide a key to another door from which to rise. Explore more carefully, and you will discover other symbols and most important your own interpretation.
I was present when Mr. Chiarvalle first submitted his painting. He is a cheerful person wearing a matching colorful t-shirt and has a small resemblance to Gerry Garcia. I asked him if “he” came with the art to be exhibited. His face lit up, laughed, and opening his arms said, “sure”!
Exit this rainy day, the blur of work, the cyber blue light, and enter the Piedmont Gallery today. There are 85 more masterfully painted artworks for you to discover. Vote for your favorite painting for the People’s Choice Award. Later you can grab a coffee at the Roasted Beanery next to Geisslers on South Road to discuss with a friend what you experienced.
The gallery will be open one more day, Sunday, Sept 27 from 10AM to 2PM located at 612 Main Street in Somers, Ct.