Art Update: Aug. 16 – Sept. 14, 2019

"Wild Things"

Nature Speaks – Endurance, by: Jo M. Orise – oil on canvas, gallery wrap 18×24″

Art Opening and Reception

Where: River Arts Gallery, Route 1, Damariscotta, ME
When:  Opening reception: August 16 –  5 to 7 pm
Public view and purchase: August 16 – September 14, 2019
Hours:  Tuesday – Saturday 10 – 4 pm
Sunday 110-03 pm

Contact: 207-563-1507
email: info@riveratsme.org

Having submitted an artwork to be juried for the “Wild Things” show, I learned 208 paintings were submitted, and 80 were selected by the jurying process.

I was one of the lucky 80! That sounds like the title of a book or at least a movie.

I am so pleased. So many paintings. And a theme show to boot!

I usually avoided “Theme” shows—until this year. I was accepted at the last show and now this show. Two theme shows in a row! How great is that?

Why do I avoid “Themes”? Well…my brain doesn’t work that way. Suggest a theme, my mind is blank.

I literally interpret the message…then it gets complicated in my little head. It feels like I don’t fit in my head. Nor do I fit in the group who is part the whole event.

They get it. I don’t.

My examples draw a lot of blank stares and gaping mouths.

Hmmm.

I go home and have coffee. I stare at my easel. Whiteness. That is what I see. Well, lately it is grayness—I tint my canvas prior to painting. Gray can make paint “zing” or can depress you. Like sitting in a little corner asking “why don’t I think that way?”

But this time, upon examining available paintings hanging in my studio, I forced myself to think beyond the painted subject. It worked—twice in two months!

However, I fear my time as a theme painter is limited.

But then…

Join us.

Have a glass of wine, a few goodies and let’s chat about art—everyone’s art. Most participating artists attend the opening.

We artists will be happy to speak with anyone interested in art.

Give a holler, leave a comment and a like.

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JMO
https://www.jomorise.com