Abstract art dates back to the early 1900’s when artists began to paint abstract art as a result of a deliberate artistic and philosophical development. Two acclaimed artists’ work in different media will be showcased in this time-honored style in the next exhibit at the Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom, “Abstracts in Fiber and Paint.” Joe Strickland will exhibit his newest series of paintings in mixed-media, and Joan Dyer will show her unique fabric art. The exhibit opens on January 24 and continues through March 6, 2014.
Joe Strickland has been recognized for his unique use of multiple mediums in his work; pushing a medium in order to uncover an inventive method of using it in unconventional means. Joe Strickland’s paintings are water-based pigments mixed with oil resulting in incredible textures, values and hues. His unique technique combined with a background in serigraphy has inspired him to push the boundaries to invent new ways of expression in the fine art of printmaking.
While his earlier work referenced abstract forms from nature, architecture has captured his attention in his newest paintings. “With a bit of technical know-how and imagination, I believe that most any device can be dared to serve as something other than what it was designed to do. In my quest to merge architectural linearity with organic space, I am attempting to design compositions that are perceived through multiple interpretations.” Introducing linear aspects into his work has added a new dimension to tell the story. Subtleties of structures within an abstract landscape, expands not only the physical but also the meta-physicality of the art. Strickland’s hope is that the viewer will invoke discoveries not seen at first glance.
Café du Marche, 12” x 12”, mixed media by Joe Strickland
Joan Dyer’s fabric art is created entirely by an intuitive process, with which she builds her designs fairly quickly and freely. All of her art quilts are her original designs, generally depicting abstract forms from nature. Joan Dyer’s style has evolved utilizing curved piecing and organic shapes, generally with warm colors. “I learned traditional methods of piecing by hand when I began this journey with fabric, but soon began to enjoy the design phase of fabric artistry.”
Dyer’s collection of fabrics includes mostly her own hand-dyed and hand-painted cottons and silks. Fabrics with various surface designs, using discharge and resist techniques, are often included. She collects a wide variety of unique pieces including African and Asian batiks, home decorator fabrics, and interesting pieces from around the world.
In the adjacent Community Gallery at 48 Natoma, art quilts from the regional fiber group, Quartz and selected members from the Folsom Quilt and Fiber Guild will be displayed. Over 50 unique art fiber pieces from this creative group will be shown.
The public is invited to celebrate both exhibits at the free opening reception on Friday, January 24, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, with refreshments, wine and live music.
The Gallery at 48 Natoma is managed by the Folsom Parks and Recreation Department and showcases art by regional and national professional artists, area museum collections and traveling exhibitions; offering high quality original art exhibits that the community may otherwise not have an opportunity to experience.
The gallery is free and open to the public and art is available for purchase. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9-5, with additional hours Tuesday and Wednesday nights from 6-8pm. Free tours can be arranged by appointment.