Opening Reception: Robert Quackenbush, Unearthed Fragments & Patricia Streeper, Brave Work: Women and Their Contributions

Join us for an opening reception for our two newest temporary exhibitions: Robert Quackenbush – Unearthed Fragments & Patricia Streeper, Brave Work: Women and Their Contributions.

Robert Quackenbush is a contemporary painter and mixed media artist.
About Robert:

“Experimentation drives my practice of making art. I’m fascinated about how things go together: color, texture, geometrics, found objects and new materials. And so, I find myself in the arena of innovation, and this leads to invention. Invention takes me into the unknown, and the unknown places me squarely in the unavoidable spotlight of risk. And that’s where I have the most fun and experience the greatest challenges while exploring the human condition.

I am also influenced by the artists who have come before me. I consider the history of art to be a remarkable and exciting record of progress. A record filled with insights and experiences delivered in a language we each have to decode as we deal with solving the challenges of being creative. All of my work embodies this decoding and informs how I resolve my dreams and ideas into art.  

I continually work on a number of series, each new piece affecting and influencing the work that surrounds it. It’s impossible for me to avoid the migration of ideas and images that flow among my paintings, printmaking efforts and sculpted pieces. The power of the horizon line; the beauty of architectural dimensions; the surprise of a textured surface; the intriguing angles of geometry and the human form; the unavoidable attraction of a found object—each an integral part of my ever-growing arsenal.  

A great painter once taught me not to be afraid of my imagination, and I thank him for that. He also exemplified the trait of generosity, a trait I admire and practice to this day: being generous to my students and mentees as they develop their careers; being responsive to charitable requests; and being an influence and a catalyst within my community.”

Patricia Streeper is a portrait artist.

Patricia’s Artist Statement: “Exceptional human traits know no gender or race. Courage, determination, passion, perseverance…these are the characteristics of human potential and are possible in all people regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, background or belief. This series of “visual biographies” is a collection of oil portraits of women from history or presently making history that deserve to be acknowledged and honored for their accomplishments, dedication, and willingness to take a stand for the sake of opportunity for themselves and others. With this work, my goal is to spark curiosity and encourage the viewer to learn more about what comprises women’s bold work…and to inspire conversation about the contributions of all women.”

The exhibition will be on view from November 18, 2023 – January 7, 2024.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Opening reception – Friday, November 17
4-7 pm.
Free and open to the public.
A cash bar and light refreshments will be available.