Press Release
Newport Art Museum - New Exhibitions Open in September
Friday, July 02, 2010
~The Abstract in Realism:
Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, Mimo Gordon Riley, Gretchen Dow Simpson
~Lee Segal: New Ceramics
Reception: September 10
NEWPORT, RI: Upcoming exhibitions opening in September at the Newport Art Museum will showcase work by established artists Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, Mimo Gordon Riley, and Gretchen Dow Simpson, and new work by studio ceramicist Lee Segal. "The Japan Craze: Art and Craft in Rhode Island after 1854" sponsored by WILLIAM VAREIKA FINE ARTS LTD, and "From the Japanese: Contemporary Selections" continue through October 17, 2010. The Museum hosts a reception for the new exhibitions on Friday, September 10, 5 to 7 pm. The reception is free for Museum members, $10 for non-members.
The Abstract in Realism
Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, Mimo Gordon Riley, and Gretchen Dow Simpson
September 4, 2010 - January 2, 2011
Ceramicist Lee Segal is known for his use of bold colors, geometric shapes and rich patinas. Newport, Rhode Island is the muse for much of his current work: he finds inspiration in the merchant ships, rose gardens, architecture, sea and sunsets. This exhibition of new work includes familiar Segal forms and vessels as well as more sculptural work characterized by hard-edged, linear, abstract forms. Originally from California, Segal settled in Rhode Island in 1990. He owns and operates "All Fired Up Pottery," a studio/gallery in Newport, with his partner Irene Parthenis.
Each of these respected, established Rhode Island artists has a distinct style and subject matter, but they share a sense of mystery and a similar approach to composition (the importance of leaving things out.) Gaucher-Thomas, founder and president emerita of the Art League of Rhode Island and a signature member of the National Watercolor Society, has worked in watercolor for more than twenty years and is best known for her unique approach utilizing the watercolor medium on plate bristol. This exhibition features new work by Gaucher-Thomas - portraits drawn in charcoal on Mylar. New England trees served as backdrops in Gordon Riley's paintings until three years ago when she began exploring them as subject matter through the use of simple, abstract shapes and high color. "The Abstract in Realism" includes examples from multiple years, allowing the viewer to see Gordon Riley's artistic progression. Dow Simpson is well-known for her crisp, geometric explorations of architectural details, many of which have appeared on the cover of New Yorker magazine. Her recent work is more painterly and voluminous yet retains the unmistakable Dow Simpson elements of the hidden staircase, or the glimpse through a window in the late afternoon sun.
Lee Segal: New Ceramics
September 11 - November 8, 2010
Reception for Summer Exhibitions
Friday, September
5 - 7 pm
Free for Newport Art Museum members
$10 for non-members
About the Newport Art Museum: The Newport Art Museum's collections and exhibitions focus on the visual artists of Newport and southeastern New England, reflecting both the rich heritage of the past and the lively art scene of the present. The Museum also offers art classes and camps, concerts, talks, trips, and special events throughout the year. The Newport Art Museum is fully accredited by the American Association of Museums and receives support from the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts. The Newport Art Museum is situated in Newport's Old Quarter at 76 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island. Admission: $10 adults; $8 seniors; $6 Military and students with valid ID; Museum members and children under 5: no charge. By donation Saturday from 10 am to noon. Hours beginning May 1: Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm, Sun 12 - 5 pm. The Museum closes at 4 pm November 1 - April 30. Open most major holiday Mondays. Check website for details. To learn more visit www.NewportArtMuseum.org or call (401) 848-8200.
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