Oak Park Artists Display ‘Multiplicity’ Exhibit at Oak Park Public Library in July

Tom Burtonwood and Holly Holmes present “Multiplicity,” a new exhibit based on the geometry and patterning they have found in the residential architecture of Oak Park. The exhibit will be shown from July 2 through July 30 at the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street. This is the first two-person collaborative project between Burtonwood and Holmes since 2008.  A reception for the artists will be Sunday, July 15 from 2 to 4 pm in the library’s art gallery. The exhibit is open seven days a week during regular library hours. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public.

The “Multiplicity” exhibit includes paintings produced individually as well as a collaborative wall covering that combines patterning produced by both artists. Holmes also presents a selection of recent ceramic works where she addresses themes relating to security and fragility.

For “Multiplicity,” Tom Burtonwood selected buildings around the village with color schemes that he found interesting and evocative. He extrapolated on the geometry contained within these structures to create two-dimensional abstract compositions. This body of work represents a new direction for Burtonwood, bringing elements of the “real world” into his previously platonic solid universe.

Holly Holmes takes a similar position to Burtonwood, looking closely at the architectural examples found Oak Park. Her watercolors are a response to the design elements found in these structures. She has selected visual elements from the fencing, shingles, windows and leading to create dynamic compositions and patterns.

Holmes’ ceramic works address theme of security and fragility. She has produced a series of “boats” – taking the idea of the vessel as a starting point. Peppered with holes each of these objects is in essence designed to fail, their brittle material quality underscoring the fragile dichotomy of the idea of security and safety. Burtonwood and Holmes worked together on a single wall covering and producing seamless tiled wallpaper that combines their two approaches.

Oak Park Public Library’s Art Gallery features a local artist or group of artists each month. The gallery is open seven days a week during regular library hours. For information on upcoming exhibits visit http://oppl.org/about/library-information/art-library/art-gallery.

Each of Oak Park Public Library’s locations has unique and beautiful art in permanent collections, and quotes from literary and local figures throughout the buildings. Find more information about the library’s permanent art collection at http://oppl.org/about/library-information/art-library/main-library.