Logan County Arts Presents "Abstract" Aug. 13

[July 31, 2015]  LINCOLN - For their August art exhibit, Logan County Arts members will be sharing their takes on Abstract Expressions. The show will open with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 13 at the Lincoln Art Institute, 112 S. McLean St, Lincoln, next to the Post Office.  In addition to the reception, the gallery will be open for the Balloon Festival weekend on Saturday, August 29 (1 – 4 pm).

Abstract art includes a wide variety of styles and can perhaps be defined more easily by what it is not than what it is. Regardless of its approach to its subject, abstract art does not focus on including recognizable images of physical objects, but rather strives to produce its effects through form, color or composition. On seeing an abstract piece, viewers looking for some familiar object may become frustrated by what may seem to be only an array of unrecognizable drips or blobs. But just as a song without words can stir moods, memories or contemplation, an abstract artwork can depict harmony or conflict, cheerfulness or despair, chaos or serene order.

LCA artists have found the inspiration for their abstract works in a variety of ways. Tony Schuff will show two Abstract/Expressionist photo pieces that are details from an earlier oil painting. Moses Pinkerton has created two acrylics; for one, he says, he “stayed between the lines”, while another was “just an expression of the moment.” Cody Sparks, who did the artwork for the exhibit’s poster, was inspired by Picasso and has always associated abstract art with bright colors. With this inspiration, he has used the 21st Century magic of the computer to produce a composition that is very colorful without overpowering the viewer.

Other artists participating in the show include Sheralyn Bolton, Margie Douglas, Mitch Douglas, Bert Hill, Jason Hoffman, Pam Moriearty, Vernon Phillips, Kerry Rolewitz, Nancy Rollings Saul, Cheryl Spove, Barb Stobaugh and Rob Swofford. After the opening weekend, the show will be available for viewing until Sept. 20 by chance or appointment. Visitors may ring the doorbell, and if curator Moses Pinkerton is available he will open the gallery. For an appointment, people may call Pinkerton at 217-651-8355.

Also available at the “Abstract Expressions” opening will be information on the September, 2015 Jason Hoffman solo exhibit, featuring both a retrospective and new artworks by this talented painter/sculptor.

[Pam Moriearty, Logan County Arts]