Souvenir

16 exceptional painters and the objects of their affection

On view: October 5 – October 26

Opening Reception: October 5 5-8pm

Robert Lange Studios upcoming exhibit, Souvenir, features the work of 16 world-renown painters and the objects of their affection.  Robert Lange says of the exhibit, “Seeing the behind the scenes of any artist’s process is such a draw for people.  For this show we thought it would be fun to display the actual objects that the artist’s have been inspired by and then let the collector take that object home along with the painting.” All are welcome at the October 5 opening from 5-8pm where a collection of participating artists will be on hand to answer questions.

“Souvenir” is a unique opportunity for viewers to see the actual physical item that inspired an artist’s painting.  “Each artist has their own unique approach to any subject matter but often a painter sees something in their day to day that drives them to the easel,” says Lange.

In the painting “Brownie Hawkeye” by Christopher Stott, there is an impeccably rendered old camera.  The camera sits atop a simple reflective tabletop and is painted in a realist manner. As with many of the paintings in the exhibit, the work required to execute the painting is obvious.  Sitting next to the painting of the camera on a shelf is the actual camera that Stott used as his reference. Observers are able to see Stott’s interpretation of the camera and what he decided to focus on, add, and omit.

“There is a fun comparative observation thing happening in this show”, says Lange.  “The objects, including high heels, teacups, and lollipops to mention a few, all play a roll in the painting.”

Keepsakes have long been portrayed in paintings as commissioning a piece of art became popular well before the Renaissance. These keepsakes would often be displayed near the painting to showoff the artist’s abilities.

One collector’s comment in anticipation for the upcoming show, “I’m an avid collector of movie set memorabilia, so this show is right up my alley. I love taking home any part of the creative process,” Aras Duncan from South Bend, IN.

Artists participating include: Robert Lange, George Ayers, Erik Johnson, Mia Bergeron, Matt Bober, Susan Harrell, Joshua Flint, Nathan Durfee, Christopher Stott, Jesus Navarro, Patrick Nevins, Timur Akhriev, June Stratton, Karin Jurick, Brian Tull, and Shannon Runquist

All are welcome to attend the August 3 event from 6–8PM where the artist will be on hand to answer questions. The gallery is open 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. everyday and by appointment.