Summer Daze

by John B.

Gallery U’s latest exhibit, ”Summer Daze,” Dazzling images representing the best of Summer by members of the Westfield Art Association,(WAA) will be on display from August 5-29, 2016. The artist reception was held on Friday August 5 from 6-8 pm. A solo show that featured the nautical string art of Leyna Andren will be held concurrently.. 

   As gallery director Denise Hyatt-Murad so aptly put it, ”We are proud to partner with the Westfield Art Association in our “Summer Daze” exhibit. The show offers ample color and warmth-just what one would expect as representing summer.

   Fourteen artists contributed work in a variety of media; acrylics, pastels watercolor and oils predominate. They are punctuated by occasional surprises such as “Ancestors” an accomplished plaster wall sculpture by Passaic County Community College adjunct professor Barbara Wallace.

   Barbara McElheny’s work, ”Summer Time Sun” an oil submission is reminiscent of the Jersey Shore. The bright blue sky is dazzling in its technical execution. The placid sea is a muted aquamarine which puts the mind at rest. The shore is sparsely populated which is not characteristic of  New Jersey beaches during the summertime. The painting leaves me with a desire to talk personally with the artist about her inspiration.

   Lisa Redburn submitted an archival pigment print with the interesting title, ”There’s Still Time.” I am puzzled as to how she was able to juxtapose the image of urban dwellings that remind me of New York City Brownstones in rescinding layers. Her technical acumen is strikingly obvious. Her choice of subject pleases me. I am most comfortable in an urban setting. 

   Christy O’Conner’s submission, “Secret Window” is a paper sculpture. It required sophisticated technical ability, and a very active mind. Her creativity is obvious. The work leaves me with a desire to speak with the artist about her inspiration.

   Brad Terhune submitted “Letting The Days Go BY,” an acrylic and pastel on board piece. It is an aquamarine canvas that is painted without an image. It engenders feelings of tranquility that bespeak talent. I would like to see more of Mr. Terhune’s work.  

Summer is my favorite time of year. During my early youth it meant vacations at the Jersey Shore with my family. During my college years partying in Belmar and Seaside New Jersey at the Jersey Shore are treasured memories. The artists represented in our Summer Daze exhibit do a good job of capturing the essence of the season. We are fortunate to live in the Garden State. Our current artists express their appreciation through their art. “Summer Days” is a successful exhibit.