January 2020: Winter Art Weekend Feature!
December 2019: Bridgeport Art Trail Revisited
November 2019: Bridgeport Art Trail 2019
October 2019: Nina Lesiga
ABOUT NINA LESIGA
My passion is sharing true life stories about experiences outside my comfort zone. I’m a spoken word artist, a storyteller for adult audiences.
Storytelling gifts me fresh perspective about people, relationships and the world. Stories help me communicate my creative thinking and to be understood. The positive energy from the audience while I’m telling prompts me to let my authentic self shine through.
I’ve performed at events, festivals and storytelling shows in the Northeast such as Stories from the Stage, Sharing the Fire, The Story Space, The Mouth Off and Story City Troupe. In the Park City I’ve performed at Bridgeport PechaKucha Night, We Rise Storytelling and Rock the Sound Festival
My calling for uncommon adventure led me to discover the power of PechaKucha Night visual storytelling, Pechakucha (pronounced Pe-cha-kah-cha) is a storytelling event with the unique purpose to spark community conversations and collaborations. Each story is 400 seconds long and is told with 20 images shown twenty seconds each. PechaKucha is beautifully challenging because story sharers choose images and time their spoken words to flow with the changing images
I’m a member of Bridgeport PechaKucha Night planning team. The next PechaKucha Night is the closing event for the Bridgeport Art Trail on November 10th. Some of the story sharers will be Bridgeport Art Trail artists. It will be exciting to hear their experiences and to discover what makes their hearts beat.
Q&A WITH NINA LESIGA
Q. How would you describe your artwork/style?
My work is to design, capture and share transformational experiences for learning, community building and entertainment My style is quirky, playful and adventuresome. When possible, there’s a public participatory element.
Q. What medium do you work in?
Spoken word storytelling and music making. I share stories and experiences from the heart to receivers in physical spaces and in virtual settings.
Q. What is your process like?
I mine my past for exceptional experiences, hurdles or the unexpected for story ideas. Sometimes I prompted by a storytelling show that has a theme. If I hit a dry spell, I deem it time to go on a new adventure!
Q. What inspires you?
People who go after impossible dreams. They make me feel optimistic that I can progress mine.
Q. How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
I’m sharing stories that are more deeply personal. I’ve uncovered more humor in my stories and I’m allowing more time for an audience to fully react when it happens. I’m enjoying the audience’s presence more while I’m sharing a story. Before and after a performance. I love chatting with them
Q. Any additional information or upcoming events you’d like to share?
I am a member of the Story City Troupe performing “Moth style” stories at the Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center in Middletown, CT.
I’ll be appearing as a featured teller on “Stories from the Stage” on PBS and World Channel The episode “What We Wear”, airing on November 4, explores stories about our emotional attachment to clothing.
I appear on the Season 3 “Stories from Stage” promo at
https://www.pbs.org/video/sfts-stories-stage-season-3-sizzle/
Our Pechakucha Facebook Page is Bridgeport-PechaKucha.
http://bit.ly/FB-Pechakucha-Bridgeport
We record our stories and then post them on our website for global viewing
https://www.pechakucha.com/cities/bridgeport
I lived most of my life in Brooklyn, NY. I moved to CT 15 years ago for a job relocation and I love it here.Five years ago, after a 30 year career as a chemist, I became an artist full time. Art became a priority and my practice chemistry has moved to the kitchen.
Storytelling is an essential tool for artists to communicate their philosophy, goals, brand, products and services. It is an enabler for establishing expertise and authority.
June 2019: RICHARD KILLEANEY
OCHELTREE DESIGN
Company info
Ocheltree Design offers luxury that is more than just exquisite in appearance: it is also comfortable and socially responsible. These products consider aesthetics simultaneously as ideals such as recycling, organic fibers, and sustainability creating objects that are as beautiful as they are considerate of the world.
Richard Killeaney bio
Richard Killeaney was raised in San Diego, California. He studied Studio Art and French at Hobart College and has a MFA in Textiles from the Rhode Island School of Design. He has taught textile design and clothing construction at various colleges including the Pratt Institute, Fairfield University, and RISD. He currently lives in up-and-coming Bridgeport, CT.
Product Info
All Ocheltree products are manufactured at a quality to withstand daily use and to become heirloom pieces. Quilts are constructed using men’s shirting with organic cotton batting and backs, designed in unlimited editions in varying sizes from crib to king. The decorative pillows at Ocheltree Design are designed to coordinate with the quilts and also stand alone, on a bed or couch. The pillows are designed using men’s dress shirts, wool sweaters, and tweed sports coats, and repurposed leather. All small leather accessories, including tote bags and zip pouches, are made using leathers that are sourced from post-industrial or post-consumer sources, bringing no new leather into the world.
Artist of the Month Q&A
How would you describe your artwork/style?
I am a textile designer specializing in bedding, soft home furnishings, and small leather accessories. I specialize in quilts, pillows, and bags that feature repurposed fabrics and organic fabrics when possible. My work is minimal, masculine, and sophisticated.
What medium do you work in?
I work in textiles. My quilts are generally 100% cotton, often organic. I use a variety of fabrics for my pillows, but love anything in wool. My bags are all made using repurposed leather.
What is your process like?
I generally look to places for inspiration, both color and shape. I sketch and make actual samples as I develop new patterns or products. There are lots and lots of samples before final products are sold.
What inspires you?
Place, often places I’ve lived in or visited. Fabric. Fiber. Fabric and fiber provenance.
How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
I continue to make more new designs than I’m able to keep in production. I’ve become a better at sewing.
Can you tell me about your experience at AMFAB? What is your studio like? Can you share a bit about the AmFab community?
I moved to Bridgeport to work for Denyse Schmidt in 2003. She was working in the Remington Arms studios at the time. When all of the artists there were evicted in 20005 so the building could become luxury apartments, many moved to the American Fabrics Buildling. I have known many of the artists there since 2003. When I became unemployed in the 2008 economic crash, I took on my studio with Caroline Valites, who was also an assistant to an artist in the building. I’ve been in my space since. I am in a critique group with a number of other artists in the building now, which has been essential to my practice and success.
Why do you think the arts are important in Bridgeport?
Art is important everywhere. It is especially important in Bridgeport in showing the public at large and the youth of the city that art is created everywhere, that anyone can do it, and that art can lead to entrepreneurship and jobs. We also bring vitality to buildings that would otherwise rot.
Do you have any upcoming events or exhibitions?
Yes. I have a show titled “Domestic Buildup” at the Pardee Morris House gallery in New Haven. The show opens on June 15th and runs all summer.
Any new projects you’d like readers to know about?
The American Fabrics annual Open Studios happens every November.
May 2019: ASHER DELERME
ASHER DELERME, M.S., LADC, CCS, CCDP
Cultural arts educator, clinician, administrator and master drummer, Asher Delerme occupies both worlds as a professional musician and clinical social worker/administrator with equal proficiency. He is a founding member of the world beat/Salsa band, MIKATA (All of Us) and has recorded with numerous jazz and world music ensembles. As a performer, Delerme has toured the United States, the Caribbean, Canada and Asia, and played Carnegie Hall on multiple occasions. Since 2005, he has been a principle member of Yucca Yeke Maguay, a musical ensemble that honors the first people of the Caribbean. Currently he performs with the Suso/Glass Quartet, a collaboration between legendary kora player Foday Musa Suso and world-renowned composer Philip Glass. The quartet recently released their self-entitled CD recording, Suso/Glass quartet.
Long before taking permanent residence in the “Constitution State” though, Delerme was destined to become one of its most versatile and accomplished percussionists. His formal training began in the distinguished World Music program at Wesleyan University, Delerme was already touring the United States with Abraham Kobina Adzenyah during his freshman year. While a junior, he’d make his pilgrimage to Ghana, West Africa to study Ghanaian drumming and dance, and upon graduation, he returned to his native New York City to study and perform Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Brazilian music.
Eventually, his passion for helping others led him to earned a Master’s in Counseling Psychology at Southern Connecticut State University. He is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor and a certified clinical supervisor. Delerme has managed human services programs for the past 28 years and is currently the executive director and a clinical supervisor for the Chemical Abuse Services Agency (CASA) where he has been recognized by civic and cultural organizations for various initiatives including the development of the Areyto Apartments, a permanent supportive housing program for homeless individuals and his concept of a musically based therapeutic group entitled “Rhythms in Recovery.”
In addition, he is a seasoned educational/performance artist who is listed with the CT Commission for the Arts Contours program and the Arts for Learning program (formerly Young Audiences of America) and is a former artist-in-residence for the New York State Commission on the Arts.
Artist of the Month Q&A
Q. How would you describe your artwork/style?
World music artist with strong focus on music and art of the African diaspora. Culturally and socially conscious musician with a strong humanistic background and capacity to create a music based experience that moves people to work through their suffering, ponder their personal recovery and build community.
Q. What medium do you work in?
Sonic creativity with an emphasis in rhythmic groves that create and build community.
Q. What is your process like?
I attempt to combine interactive and sensory activities that use cultural and historical information along with rhythmic interactions to enlighten audiences and creates sense of community. My goal is often to create and plan experiences that help individuals connect with themselves and each other through the use of music and rhythm while helping to define and create a vibrant social community. Exploring and incorporating rhythmic games, folktales, expressive imagery, hands on participation and a demonstration of sonic rhythmic instruments. Understanding and learning from participants and communities about what stimulates and inspires them to discover their individual strength and that of their communities. Harnessing the power of creative and constructive community interactions
Q. What inspires you?
Along with folkloric artistry, the artistic contributions of past and present artists who despite their lack of acceptance and recognition in the mainstream creative process, excelled artistically and created master pieces of art. The power of art to inspire improvement and change in all of us.
Q. How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
I will always continue to develop as a musician but as I mature and engage with younger audiences I continue to discover other dimensions of being an artist via storytelling, educational engagement, advocacy, and personal creative expressions which can inspire and open pathways for others to find meaning and joy in their lives.
Q. Why do you think Make Music Day Bridgeport is an important event?
BPT is a great diverse community and especially representative of the multicultural America we live in. With that said Make Music Day BPT is a great time to bring the city together to appreciate and lift each other up with great music making.
Any additional information or upcoming events you’d like to share?
- I recently wrote and was awarded a major grant from the state for CASA to provide recovery support services to women in Stamford, Norwalk and Bridgeport.
- Very honored and excited about my continuing collaboration with City Lights and Company and their contributions to cultural arts education in BPT public schools.
- Looking forward to touring with the Suso/Glass quartet this fall in California and Mexico.
___________________________________________________________________________
Artist of the Month
April 2019: Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative
Located in the Read’s Artspace building in downtown Bridgeport, MDAC provides unique programming that assists individuals with disabilities in creative exploration, self-discovery and expansive artistic growth using: Visual Arts, Music, Dance, Yoga and more!
MDAC’s artists have made connections with neighbors, businesses, universities, museums, and art councils forming innovative partnerships to celebrate the universal language of art.
This Day Support Option program is designed for artists with disabilities ready to take the step to full participation in the arts both independently and collectively with peer artists and artists in the community. The candidates should have a strong commitment and interest in arts and a sincere desire to engage in the art making process.
If you are interested in a tour or learning more about this program please contact: the Program Manager by email or at 203-690-1609.
Join us for a celebration of 5 years of the Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative with an evening of music, refreshments, and merriment on Thursday, April 25th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. More Information
Autumn Chase + Mary Baker -Tree of Life Self Exploration
Second Saturday Workshops
April 13, 2019, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative
Discover a new technique to express meaning in your life through art. The Tree of Life has a long history that spans across multiple cultures as a symbol of strength, growth, and connection to the self, family, and the overarching universe. Come create your own unique tree of life on a sturdy canvas with an array of acrylic paints, collage paper, and support, as you journey through what makes you YOU!
Mary and Autumn are masters level art therapy and counseling students from Albertus Magnus College who will be graduating in May. They both currently work for the Kennedy Center at MDAC assisting individuals on their creative endeavors, running art therapy groups, and curating exhibits.
Second Saturday Workshops
Made possible by a grant awarded by the Horizon Foundation, the Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative is pleased to present a community engagement and learning opportunity allowing us to inspire creative energy through exposing, engaging and educating the community.
Adult artists of all abilities are welcome to come experience our diverse workshops led by several Kennedy Center Expressive Arts Therapists and
Facilitators and local Bridgeport artists. There will be several different types of art mediums and techniques being taught, with all the materials being provided to the participants.
Second Saturdays will continue on every second Saturday, the last being in June 2019. While there is not a fee to participate in the workshops, a $10 donation is recommended to help cover our costs.
In February MDAC hosted the exhibit “The Beauty of Bridgeport”. The Beauty of Bridgeport was MDAC’s first ever photography show, featuring images our artists captured walking around our neighborhood and throughout the city of Bridgeport.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MDAC
March 2019: Jane Davila
About Jane Davila
I incorporate printmaking techniques and paper into my fiber work as a connection to the printmaking work that began my art career. I am particularly drawn to fish, birds and insects as subjects and frequently include them within rectilinear compositions that represent abstractions of landscape.
I also include letters, numbers, and pictographic characters in the background of my compositions. My synesthetic perception of the color and space of these graphemes deepens and enriches my own experience of my work, and hopefully that of the viewer.
Q. How would you describe your artwork/style?
My work is collage-based. No matter the medium that I’m working in, it’s all about the layers! My work is graphic, stylized, and fairly minimalist.
Q. What medium do you work in?
I started as a printmaker, specializing in etchings and intaglios. Although I work mainly in fiber and mixed media now, many of my pieces incorporate printmaking in some form, including screen printing, gyotaku (fish printing), and block printing. Having a printmaking background I find it more natural to work in a series, to take an idea and play with its many possible iterations before moving on to the next idea. There is a deep connection between paper and fabric (artist-quality “rag” paper is made from cotton, for example) and I work on both surfaces and love combining both in each composition.
Q. What is your process like?
I sketch out compositions in a notebook, then often carve a block, burn a screen, or create a stencil. I’ll audition fabrics and art papers to arrive at a color palette, paint some backgrounds, and then jump into construction. The thinking and planning usually take more time than the actual execution because by the time I get to the “doing” phase most of the decisions have been made. It’s a pleasure to start with a wide array of colors, textures, and supplies and then winnow them down to those used in the finished piece. Because much of my work also includes some hand stitching, this part of the process allows for some meditative thought and future planning. There can be a state of zen achieved when working slowly by hand.
Q. What inspires you?
Nature, iconography, pattern, poetry, song lyrics, and typography all inspire me. I like to challenge myself to start with a lyric, a phrase, or a verse, and create a piece in response to it. I’m also challenged to incorporate an aspect of social change into my work, mostly in a very allegorical way. For example, works with fish or insects are often commentaries on changes to our climate and the species affected by it; the use of text and characters in languages other than English references the connectivity of every person and culture on this planet.
Q. How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
I think I’ve become much more aware of how interconnected we all are. You can research or find out about any art form, any topic with a click of a mouse. It becomes challenging to say something unique. I try to make sure that what I am expressing as an artist is showing my viewpoint, which it’s filtered through my experiences, and that I’ve left my “mark” on it.
Q. Can you tell me about your experience during Art Trail Weekend? Did you visit any events that particularly stood out to you? Did you host in any special programming?
I love the energy leading up to and during the Art Trail weekend! I’m always so excited for visitors to our studios and the different venues around the city to discover what an arts and cultural treasure Bridgeport is. There is a gritty, scrappy vibrancy, an “aliveness” to this place, that isn’t found everywhere. I love hearing the wonder in the voices of first time visitors that didn’t realize how truly wonderful, inspiring, creative, and diverse we are.
Q. Any upcoming news or events you’d like to share?
I teach classes in fiber art, surface design, and in the business side of being an artist at my studio at the NEST Arts Factory. A new class schedule for Spring will be posted soon. Send me a note if you’d like a reminder once it’s ready! www.janedavila.com. There’s an Open Studio event at the NEST on Saturday, March 9 from 2-5 pm, if you’d like to stop by for a visit! www.nestartsfactory.com/events
AUGUST 2018
Bridgeport Art Trail artists in the community, bringing art to the people
We are preparing for our 10th Anniversary of the Bridgeport Art Trail November 8th-11th.
This month we would like to highlight some of the tremendous work Bridgeport artists have been making in the community this summer!
Make Music Day Bridgeport 2018
Bridgeport CT joined the international Make Music Day community by participating in CT’s first statewide Make Music Day celebration (MMD-BPT). Over 300 free music making events were held across the state as part of annual global celebration. Bridgeport participated with an eclectic sampler of free-opportunities to make and enjoy music including lunch-time music in public spaces like the Broad Street steps, and other locations throughout the city and an evening of free performances at the Bijou Theatre.
Bridgeport Pride Celebration
The 2018 Bridgeport Pride celebration was held on Thursday, July 19th.
It began with the opening reception for the art exhibit SAMESEX at City Lights Gallery, followed by a Pride Walk to McLevy Green and then a Variety Show at the Bijou Theatre.
Thank you to everyone who participated and sponsors the Triangle Community Center and Dave Ivanko and John Brannelly, Hosted by City Lights Gallery www.citylightsgallery.org
Bridgeport Arts Festival and Downtown Thursdays
Hosted by the Bridgeport Arts & Cultural Council, the Bridgeport Arts Festival connected artists and surrounding communities to partake in a day of live music, arts, crafts, and creative shopping on McLevy Green.
The Downtown Thursday’s concert series is a FREE weekly outdoor summer concert series that happens every Thursday at McLevy Green (5:30-9PM) in Downtown Bridgeport, from July 12 to August 23. Downtown Thursdays features local and area musicians.
Artists at the Downtown Bridgeport Farmer’s Market
How about some art with your fresh food and vegetables? The Downtown Bridgeport Farmers Market features live music and art demonstrations weekly at McLevy Green, Thursdays 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.! Participating artists include:
- Alicia Cobb of ArtSimplicated– creating fine body art-(body painting)
- Our Woven Community- One of a kind bags and fabric products are designed and created by artists with the support of committed volunteers. Makers are relocated refugee woman now living in Bridgeport, CT.
- Marcella Kurowski and Chris Cavalier Together they have a performance they call Dada Mr. Marcella does automatic painting to Chris’s music.
- Robin Jopp Made in Bridgeport: Steam-punk style jewelry and assemblage, some with nostalgic elements of Bridgeport history.
- August 16th – Herm Freeman: a retired art teacher who will conduct art demos
- August 16th – Iyaba Ibo Mandingo : Visual Art, Art to Wear, Spoken Word
- August 23rd –Susan Murray of Finished With Style: Stenciling, Textural Surface Treatments, Upcylced Furniture Artist of the NEST Arts Factory
- August 30th – Melida Alford : Jewelry. Prints and Bags
- August 30th Shanna Melton. Visual art, art to wear, poetry
Art-To-Go Billboard Project
ART TO-GO, on I-95 Digital Billboard is a collaboration with the city of Bridgeport to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Bridgeport Art Trail by monthly showcasing a local artist. The graphic above is included in the rotation of images on the digital billboard on I-95 near Webster Arena. Will’s lent some of his work for a group exhibit at the Margaret Morton Center for Government at 999 Broad St. We’ve decided to keep Will’s art on the billboard for August.
Executive Director Suzanne Kachmar thanks the city for this partnership and says, ““The arts and culture are a natural resource of humanity that needs to be protected, just as we protect forests, air and water supplies. Artists and cultural traditions demonstrate how resilience can be transformed into beauty, solve problems, pass down heritage and build community. Bridgeport artists epitomize this. They are a cultural resource from diverse backgrounds, specializing in a variety of art forms. This billboard project reflects the creativity and potential that is rejuvenating Bridgeport.
Billboard graphic design is an in-kind contribution from Hatch 130. City Lights & Company is a non-profit arts organization that serves the community through art and a grateful recipient of the Hatch 130 Initiative.
JULY 2018
Make Music Day Bridgeport
June 21, 2018
Bridgeport CT joined the international Make Music Day community by participating in CT’s first statewide Make Music Day celebration (MMD-BPT).
Thank you to all who made this event a success, joyous event day to celebrate community and music. Bank of America, the DSSD, City of Bridgeport, AV Davey Audio Visual, Bijou Theatre CT, Wpkn Radio, CT Post, Hatch 130, all the musicians, Gary Peterson, Steve DiCostanzo, Lauren Coakley Vincent, Phil Kuchma, Rick Reyes, Tim Walsh and Dariusz Kanarek, and Mike Daly at the Connecticut Post.
CT POST: Making music at the solstice
By Michael J. Daly
Bridgeport joined the club, an international club, by the way, on Thursday, the day of the summer solstice, and noted in many places around the world as Make Music Day. READ MORE
JULY 2018 ART TO-GO features
Will Corprew
artist, designer, carpenter of 80 Design, ARTS EAST.
ART TO-GO, on I-95 Digital Billboard is a collaboration with the city of Bridgeport to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Bridgeport Art Trail by monthly showcasing a local artist.
Executive Director Suzanne Kachmar thanks the city for this partnership and says, ““ The arts and culture are a natural resource of humanity that needs to be protected, just as we protect forests, air and water supplies. Artists and cultural traditions demonstrate how resilience can be transformed into beauty, solve problems, pass down heritage and build community. Bridgeport artists epitomize this. They are a cultural resource from diverse backgrounds, specializing in a variety of art forms. This billboard project reflects the creativity and potential that is rejuvenating Bridgeport.
Billboard graphic design is an in-kind contribution from Hatch 130. City Lights & Company is a non-profit arts organization that serves the community through art and a grateful recipient of the Hatch 130 Initiative.
JULY FEATURED EVENT
Bridgeport Pride Celebration
Bridgeport Pride celebration begins with art exhibit reception at City Lights Gallery, followed by a Pride Walk to McLevy Green and then a Variety Show at the Bijou Theatre CT
THANK YOU TO SPONSORS:
Triangle Community Center, Dave Ivanko and John Brannelly
JOIN US FOR THE CELEBRATION:
5:30-8 pm SameSex Exhibit Art Reception Admission: $10- Includes light fare, drink, and D.J. under the tent on the patio,
8 pm Pride Walk to McLevy Green, FREE Admission, We step off at 8 pm from the Broad St. Steps. FREE.
8:45-10:30pm Doors open at the Bijou Theatre, grab a cocktail and enjoy the Variety Show fundraiser. Admission $25
$30 Combo for the Art Party & Variety Show. Proceeds support City Lights & WPKN Radio.
City Lights & Company is nonprofit organization that serves the community through art and lead organization of the Bridgeport Art Trail and Make Music Day- Bpt.
WPKN radio, 89.5 fm is a community-based, listener supported radio station. Studios are on the campus of the University of Bridgeport, CT.
8TH Annual SAMESEX Art Exhibit:
Exhibiting Artists: Mario Baez, Nate Bass, Marieta Capobianco, Darron Copeland, Erica Czerwinski, Daniel Eugene, Andrew Graham, Eliska Greenspoon, Don Houston, Maxwell Kale, Julia Liptak, Alison Margo, Marla Mcleod, Cassandra Mendoza, Ricky Mestre, Thomas Mythos, Jon Puozzoli, Aly Maderson Quinlog, Colleen Reilly Rees, Barbara Ruger, Ellen Schinderman, Shilarts, Richard Taddei, Francesca Winfield
MAY 2018
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
DUSTIN DEMILIO
ABOUT DUSTIN DEMILIO
Dustin DeMilio is a multimedia artist. Born in Bridgeport, CT November 3, 1979. He has lived in Japan, England, Norway and spent many years traveling the world. He currently resides in Bridgeport, where he has a studio at Reads Artspace.
Q & A WITH DUSTIN DEMILIO
What is your background/experience as an artist?
I come from a creative family and have been involved in art and music my entire life. My dad always made sure I had a camera when I was little and encouraged me to learn all the new technology. I got my first guitar when I was 3, first synthesizer at 7, and started writing my own compositions at an early age. I have performed on the East Coast and Overseas. My artwork has been featured in many exhibitions and I was the featured artist for New Haven Open Studios, LAMP, CreateHereNow, State of The Arts and many more….
How would you describe your artwork/style?
“Post-modern, acutely intelligent avant-garde. Dustin’s work is bright, incisive, impossibly contemporary and filled with poetry. His photography, digitally painted or straight up is as powerful as, love or lust at first sight. His images have the elusive power to be utterly visceral and raw, while remaining starkly new.” -Mercedes Arensberg
What medium(s) do you work in?
Besides visual art, I also compose electronic music and play multiple instruments. I create experimental video using custom built software that I have been developing for the past 12 years. Using this program, I do large scale video installations on buildings and use it for live visuals for music and dance performances. I also enjoy painting, writing poetry and the culinary arts.
What is your process like?
Most of my work evolves organically, not always knowing the end result when I begin a new piece. I mainly use Photoshop, Max/MSP/Jitter, Logic, Reaktor and a bunch of special sound making devices and plugins. When I create my digital paintings I usually begin with images of the city and architecture that I photograph in my community and then transform those images to reveal the dream realm.; visualizing a new perspective of reality.
What inspires you?
Everything inspires me: the people I meet, the beauty of nature, history, science, new music and culture I discover.
How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
More detail and depth. Further and further refining my skills. With the growth of technology and as I continue to mature as a human, change is the one constant I depend on. As an ever-evolving artist I continue to develop my skills and develop new ways of understanding my surrounds and the universe.
Can you tell me about your involvement in the Billboard Project and the piece you have on display? Why did you chose to submit that image? Why do you think the Billboard project is important?
I was selected as the first artist to have their work displayed to represent the rebirth of Bridgeport. The image that was chosen “Main & State” depicts the intersection of Main Street and State Street with the iconic Peoples Bank building and the Barnum Museum. The billboard project is important because it will bring awareness to all the wonderful new things happening in Bridgeport that most people are not aware of and will help to promote the Bridgeport Art Trail.
Can you share about your involvement in Make Music Day Bridgeport? Why are you excited for this event?
As a featured artist for the event I’ll be performing both live music and live video. On June 21, I will be setup on Fairfield Ave across from the Bijou Theater projecting on the buildings. The “Make Music Bridgeport” is part of a state-wide musical celebration event, initiated by the CT Office of the Arts. Together with other music makers we hope to make this “Make Music Day” celebration one to remember.
Any other upcoming news, events, or anything else you’d like to share?
On May 31. City Lights Gallery will be displaying some of my digital photography in the ‘ART That Makes The HeART Sing’ show.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DUSTIN DEMILIO
WEBSITE: http://backward.us
SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/dust_magnet
INSTAGRAM: ‘Dust.Magnet’
APRIL 2018
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
JIN HI KIM
ABOUT JIN HI KIM
Jin Hi Kim is an innovative komungo soloist and a 2010 Guggenheim Fellow composer. She is known as a pioneer for introducing the komungo into American contemporary music scene through her “Living Tones” cross-cultural chamber and orchestral compositions and her extensive solo performances of the world’s only electric komungo with live interactive MIDI computer system and creation of her large-scale multimedia performance pieces. The New York Times wrote, “….virtuoso, Jin Hi Kim promises thoughtful, shimmering East-West amalgams in combinations that are both new and unlikely to be repeated.”
As a soloist she has performed in her own compositions at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (Washington DC), Smithsonian Freer Gallery of Art, Asia Society (NYC), Metropolitan Museum of Art, Haus der Kulturen der Welt (Berlin), Royal Festival Hall (London), and international music festivals around the world. She has received commissions from the Kronos Quartet, American Composers Orchestra and Tan Dun’s New Generation of East program for Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. She was awarded 2017 Fulbright Specialist Program to Vietnam, 2015 Composer Now Creative Residencies at the Pocantico Center of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, 2014 Asian Cultural Council Fellowship to Indonesia, 2013 McKnight Visiting Composer with the American Composers Forum, Music Alive Composer in Residency with New Haven Symphony, and received Artist Award from the Foundation for Contemporary Performance Arts, which was created by John Cage and Jasper Johns.
Her recent compositions are responses to two wars involving the American military in Asia: a choral piece, Child of War, dedicated to Kim Phuc who is known for “the girl in the picture” during the Vietnam War, and One Sky II for Orchestra, dedicated to the reunification of Korea.
Q & A WITH JIN HI KIM
Q. You noted that One Sky II, ”is an attempt to deliver a message that we live under and share one sky regardless of what political or ideological borders have been created.”
Can you provide additional information on the inspiration behind this new orchestra piece?
The current political tension between North Korea and the USA actually goes back to the bitter Japanese occupation of the Korean peninsula and American military force during the Korean War. For the past 65 years some families have been divided between North and South Korea without any communication. The Korean War has been forgotten for a long time in the USA until the recent news focused on North Korean nuclear weapons of mass destruction.
I think no matter what had happened before we human must be conscious about the positive way to live together for a better world. Music is always a spiritual art form that helps bring people together and has the potential momentum to override the political structures imposed on us. It is time to reconcile the past history and look for the peace on Korean peninsula and around the world. We all share one sky not the divided boundaries created by politics and war. No matter if you are standing on the North side or the South side of the Demilitarized Zone you will see the same sun, the same moon and the same clouds floating by.
Q. What role does culture play in your compositions?
My One Sky II for Orchestra is cultural, social, spiritual and political action. A large group of musicians are gathering together for a reflection upon the Japanese occupation, the brutal American military force during the Korea War, and the dream of and potential for peace on the Korean peninsula.
Q. You were quoted in a NY Times article as integrating a variety of cultures into your music beyond traditional Korean and Western classical music. Why is that important to you?
In 21st century the world is wide open, and we travel around the world so fast and all the time. We live with more diversity of food, news, culture, politics, economy, religions and people than any time in history. My ears are open. My eyes are open. We can’t avoid thinking about and interacting with our neighbor countries and their cultures. So naturally I am trying to communicate with others in the global village through my music.
Quote: ”After 10 years of combining traditional Korean and Western classical music, I realized there are more important things to do,” she said, adding that she had shifted her style in the early 1990’s. ”I made a conscious decision to not only combine Korean and Western music, but a lot of other cultures.”
Q. How do you think you’ve developed as an artist since that article in 2002?
I have been performing all the time with musicians around the world not only in the USA but as I travel to other countries and collaborate with local musicians. I have performed in over forty countries, I published an autobiography, <Komungo Tango> in 2007 that covers fascinating multi-cultural ensembles that I created and composed for. In recent years I had an opportunity to reside for extended periods of time in Indonesia with Asian Cultural Council Fellowship and in Vietnam with Fulbright Specialist Program. I have worked with local musicians and artists in each country and oftentimes bring them to the USA for further collaborations and performances.
Q. Where do you draw your inspiration?
Life itself. As I get older my perception about the life keeps changing. I always have been interested in cosmology, celebration of diversity of the human races, and now environmental issues. All of this is part of life that I attempt to bring to my work.
Q. What are some past projects you’d like to share about?
My works challenges and reflects multicultural society and advanced art technology in American life. I created Digital Buddha (2007-2014) contrasting both the neurotic intensity of American life with Asian meditative practice. Challenging the duality of Asian mythology and American scientific exploration of the moon, I created Touching The Moons (2000). My Ghost Komungobot (2015) is a reflection of new emerging aspects of American culture including robots, artificial intelligence, and explorations of multidimensional space in the universe.
Q. What are some future projects?
I am working on new project <Sound Calendar of the Year> which is an expansive environmental audio collection ranging from daily living to contemporary urban life to natural sound environments in multiple geographical locations. These recordings may range from human noise, the timeless sonic landscapes of forests, living environments, and sudden sound shifts associated with weather disruptions created by hurricanes, snow storms, floods or other environmental causations related to global warming.
Q. What advice would you give to someone who is new to classical music and interested in experiencing it?
Lean more about others, music from other countries. Be Free, adventurous and experimental.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JIN HI KIM HERE
MARCH 2018
ARTS FEATURE
ROBBIN ZELLA – HOUSATONIC MUSEUM OF ART
ABOUT ROBBIN ZELLA
I am the director and curator at the Housatonic Museum of Art in Bridgeport, CT. Born in Long Island, New York, I received my B.F.A. from the College of New Rochelle and M.A. in art history, theory and criticism from the Center of Curatorial Studies at Bard College, Annandale, New York.
From 1988 to 1990, I was the director of Artworks Gallery in Hartford, CT. During my time there, I worked to bring greater recognition to the artists cooperative by creating tandem programming that was relative to the time including bringing writers, critics and artists such as Donald Kuspit, Douglas Davis, Bessy Harvey and Andres Serrano (NEA Four) to the city. I developed public art programs like “Off-Season Baseball” with Jerry Beck, a project that included working with diverse communities to create a city-wide event and temporary public art project in Bushnell Park.
In 1990, I accepted a position at Eastern Connecticut State University organizing exhibitions and publishing writings on Howardena Pindell, Sol LeWitt, Berenice Abbott, Chuck Close, and DF Barry, to name a few. I also over-saw the design and renovation of the Akus Gallery.
Appointed as Executive Director of the Housatonic Museum of Art in Bridgeport in 1998, I have organized over 80 exhibitions introducing audiences to works by Ansel Adams, Jenny Holzer, Rembrandt, Andy Warhol, as well as featuring the work of local and regional artists. I have developed educational outreach programs for elementary, middle and high school students introducing the students to works in the Museum’s permanent art collection as well as to the architecture in Bridgeport.
Q & A WITH ROBBIN ZELLA
The Housatonic Museum of Art website notes that “The Housatonic Museum of Art (HMA) is home to one of the premier college art collections in the United States” and that “the “permanent collection is on continuous display throughout the 300,000 square foot facility, offering a rare opportunity for both art enthusiasts and casual observers to view and interact with the art on a daily basis”
Can you share a bit about the HMA collection and the unique experience of displaying artwork throughout the college?
The HMA has just completed another expansion creating an additional 30,000 square feet to Lafayette Hall. This area includes new ceramic, woodworking and print studios as well as drawing, painting, sculpture studios and graphic arts computer labs.
The new Atrium in this building spans three floors and includes a Percent for Art sculpture by Soo Sunny Park and a sweeping lounge space that features sculptures by Bob Gregson, Victor Vasarely and Herbert Bayer.
The new addition and subsequent renovations throughout Lafayette Hall has necessitated the storage of all works that had been on public view. Now that this construction and renovation is complete, we have the opportunity to reinstall the collection in way that showcases the works in a more organized and cohesive manner. Public areas around the campus will be dedicated to the display of African Art Collection, Native American Art, Asian Art or in thematic installations that revolve around a subject such as politics, portraiture, feminism, etc.
The Burt Chernow Galleries offer changing exhibitions every 6 to 8 weeks and provide a platform for education and conversation through the art.
Q. How do you think this impacts the students, faculty, and the community in regards to art accessibility?
The HMA and HCC are open from 8:30am until 10pm during the week and until 6pm on Saturdays. In terms of accessibility, the art is on view whenever the building is open. Didactics and collateral material is produced for every show. Wall labels and brochures are produced to identify, explain and contextualize the work. In addition, we provide programming to deepen the understanding and engagement with the works on view.
Q. Can you share about an installations or art on exhibit in the new buildings?
Comedian Lisa Lampanelli recently donated a number of works created by her late father, Leonard Lampugnale, completed when he was a student at HCC. The display is now on view on second floor of the new studio arts wing. At HCC, we are revisiting the definition of the word Alumnus/Alumna. For example, is an Alum someone who receives a two-year degree? Or is it someone who graduates from our certificate programs? Is it someone, like Leonard Lampugnale, who after a long and successful career at Sikorsky decides to pursue his passion for fine art later in life? We think it’s all of the above.
Also, many of the main offices will be home to single artist “exhibitions” and a map will be published serve as a guide when the installations are completed by the end of August.
Q. HMA has hosted a robust calendar of exhibits. How is artwork selected and what can visitors expect next?
Exhibitions are selected based on a variety of considerations including the significance of the art or artist(s), the issues or ideas addressed by the work and if it fits within the mission of the college, which to educate our students by widening the understanding and appreciation of art and culture.
Q. Are there any exhibits over the past few years that particularly stood out to you?
I think every show that the HMA mounts is meaningful—and like children—they are all my favorites for very different reasons. The Nick Cave show at Mass MoCA was amazing; the Chihuly show at the NY Botanical Gardens was spectacular; and Loie Hollowell’s paintings come to mind.
Q. The exhibit “When Caged Birds Sing by Ann Weiner 2018” addressed various women and human rights issues including a Human Rights Panel Discussion: OUT of the SHADOWS. Why do you think it was important to have this exhibit/program?
Women’s Rights are Human Rights.
Museums today are centers of community engagement. They are places where we can have an open dialogue about issues that affect global as well as local communities. Some of the issues in that show happen on the other side of the world, while others take place right here in Bridgeport. Having experts on campus to address the issues directly with the audience allowed for social, political and cultural engagement. Perhaps the conversation also stimulated action as many in the audience wanted to become involved with the advocacy groups represented on the panel. A great outcome, I think.
Q . March is Women’s History Month, any comments on women in art for our March?
In the current exhibition, Pattern, Power, Chaos and Quiet, four men and four women artists are included in the show. Of course, the last exhibit, When Caged Birds Sing, focused on the lives of eight women who were the victims of horrific actions including attempted murder and these same women emerged from the trauma to become activists and advocates. So the focus in the spring semester has centered on women and the issues that directly affect them, such as female genital mutilation.
Q. Are there plans for art handling or related programs in HMA’s future?
We have teamed up with HCC’s Stem program and transformed it into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, ART and Math), bringing art conservators and forensic artists and the like to campus so that our college students can see the kinds of careers that require a strong foundation in the sciences as well as fine art. To that end, we also partnered with the President’s Committee on Arts and Humanities to introduce award-winning architect Thom Mayne, to the students who participate in our Peer Docent Program. These interactions not only enhance the program but allows students an opportunity to learn about the many careers associated with architecture including construction, engineering and even urban planning.
Q. How would you like to see the role of art expand at HMA? In the city of Bridgeport?
For seventeen years, the HMA has had a terrific middle school program that has been recognized by the President’s Committee on Arts and Humanities. I would like to see that program scaled up to be a year-round activity for all the Bridgeport middle schools. As it is, we can only offer it to three schools per semester.
One of my concerns about Bridgeport is the notion that artists alone or a museum alone can transform the trajectory of a city—this notion is no doubt rooted in the ideas of economist, Richard Florida. Perhaps for some communities, like New York City, that may be a workable model but a single museum will not revitalize a city or change the unemployment numbers. The role of the HMA is to educate, to share ideas and perhaps change attitudes. We certainly work to bring visitors into the college, and thus, into the city. with the exhibitions and programs that we offer, as well as the outstanding permanent collection which is always on display throughout the campus. But our role is to do the work of museums and that is to be good stewards of a world-class collection, and to be one of many assets in the city of Bridgeport.
VISIT THE HOUSATONIC MUSEUM OF ART WEBSITE
FEBRUARY 2018
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE
VAGABOND THEATRE COMPANY
For our February artist of the month we have selected Vagabond Theatre Company.
We spoke with Co-Founders/Artistic Directors John R Smith JnR and Tanya Feduik-Smith about their powerful production of The Exonerated and the role of alternative theater in Bridgeport and our current social/political climate.
About Vagabond Theatre Company (VTC)
The Vagabond Theatre Company of Greater Bridgeport is a not-profit theatre troupe dedicated to creating thought provoking, emotional, and entertaining productions which acknowledge, explore and dissect social issues. As well as identifying, developing, and supporting new artists on and offstage.
About The Exonerated at The Bijou Theatre
The Vagabond Theatre Company (VTC) is pleased to announce their upcoming production of The Exonerated, adapted by Jessica Blank and Eric Jensen, and directed by Richard Mancini.
The Exonerated is the interwoven true stories of six Americans, wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death row, only to be set free decades later when newly discovered evidence proved their innocence.
• Delbert Tibbs, a poet who serves as the play’s center, convicted in the Deep South of the 1970’s and later freed when evidence surfaced showing him out-of- town when the crime occurred.
• Kerry Max Cook who served twenty-two years before being exonerated by DNA evidence
• Sunny Jacobs, who spent seventeen years in prison although another man confessed and was ignored by the courts.
• Robert Hayes, who spent seven years on death row for murder, before evidence emerges that the victim was found clutching hair from her actual attacker
• Gary Gauger, condemned for the murder of his parents and later exonerated when the true killers confess
• David Keaton, bullied into confessing to a robbery/murder at age eighteen, he is scarred from a youth spent in prison and is struggling to regain his faith
Told in their own words, through first-person monologues and scenes set in courtrooms and prisons; adapted from interviews, letters, court transcripts, case files and the public record.
Don’t miss this powerful examination of the American criminal justice system’s gaping holes in need of serious reform, and the resilience of the human spirit of the brave souls who survived it.
The Exonerated runs Fridays-Sundays February 23-March 4 at The Bijou Theatre, located at 275 Fairfield Ave. in Bridgeport.
Stage Level Tickets are $15-20 and Mezzanine Level Seats are $25-30, and can be purchased through The Bijou website, www.BijouTheatreCT.com.
A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to The Exonerated Fund administered by The Culture Project, who distribute ALL collected funds to those exonerated of their wrongful convictions to rebuild their lives after release
Q & A with VTC
Q. Why were you inspired to produce The Exonerated?
It was important to produce this play because these are the types of stories that don’t get told enough. This story challenges the once holy truth that justice is blind.
In today’s political climate, a swelling for reform is happening, or at the very least is on the horizon. The flaws in our Criminal Justice System have been in the spotlight, and the time is right to bring more awareness to the changes that are so desperately needed.
From For-Profit Prisons to the inaccessibility of affordable, fair, and adequate legal counsel, the class-war in America is on full display in our court and prison systems.
– Tanya Feduik-Smith, Co-Artistic Director
Honestly, I wasn’t too familiar with the play when Rich Mancini, the director, approached us about possibly including it in this season. I knew the basic story, but thought it was more of a stylized/dramatized courtroom piece, with some commentary monologues from interviews with those exonerated.
Once I read it, I found that not only were the main monologues segments of interviews with these amazing people, but every word of dialog is true – taken directly from the court transcripts and case files, all masterfully intertwined into a narrative by the playwrights, Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen.
After reading the stories of these brave, innocent people who lost so much more than time during their years wrongly shut away from society, I was moved by how they came out the other end with scars physical and emotional, yet hopeful, peaceful and compassionate.
When the playwrights began working on it in 2000, there were 89 people who had been exonerated from death row. By the time it was published for licensing in 2003, that total was 102, as of 2016 it was 144. Taking non-capital cases into account, there were 166 exonerations in 2016 alone. From those numbers it is clear that the issues this show addresses still plague our justice system today.
At VTC we try to shine a bright light into the dark corners of society’s issues, and pull them out front to get a good look at them. We’ve done shows that address mental illness, physical and mental abuse, bullying, homophobia, misogyny, racism, and addiction.
The Exonerated is another bright light. It asks us to consider what justice really means to ourselves as human beings, and if the irreversible vengeance of the death penalty should remain an option in a flawed system where so many are served with injustice.
-John R Smith JnR, Co-Artistic Director
Q. Your website describes how VTC strives to be “the alternative choice”. Why has the theater company taken that perspective in their work?
Probably because since we met nearly 25 years ago, the two of us have never really been what you’d call conformists. We’re Gen X, with that strong anti-establishment, Grunge background. We like to take long lingering looks at the things that make us uncomfortable, so we can maybe see a way to make them better.
We have at times called VTC, punk-rock theatre. Loud, fast, cheap, powerful and poignant.
There are over 100 professional and community theatre companies in CT, and at least 15 if not 20 community theatre companies within a 25 mile a radius of The Bijou. Most of which are well established, with long time patrons.
In order to stand out and find our audience, we need to be different. Give people a reason to come see us specifically.
When we took over producing reins for Take Me Out in March 2016, The Bijou Main Stage had a growing reputation for minimalist, envelope-pushing productions, following that season’s previous productions of Tick, Tick Boom, The Pillowman and Tanya’s very touching take on One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.
What we learned from our roles with Cuckoo & Take Me Out was that by staging shows in this manner, not only was it the most cost effective way to work, but the simplicity of it all focused the audience on the actors, not glitzy sets and costumes. It humanized the characters and impacted people more deeply.
So when launched VTC, after a management change at The Bijou dissolved the Main Stage productions, we decided to keep working toward that impact and allow the words to move the audiences, and not force anything. Much like Hamlet’s advice to players, to simply hold the mirror up to nature, and reflect true life back at those looking into it.
I think we did phenomenally on that with last season’s productions, and I truly hope we can continue to do it for many years to come.
More on Vagabond Theatre Company
More information on programming, how to donate or advertise, or on VTC itself, can be obtained by emailing their Public Relations Team at info.vtcbpt@gmail.com or visiting their website: www.VagabondBPT.org
About The Exonerated Fund:
There is no automatic restitution for the wrongly convicted and in most states they are forbidden to sue. So, The Exonerated Fund was established in 2002 by the Playwrights and the play’s original producers, The Culture Project, to assist those exonerated of wrongful convictions rebuild their lives after release. All funds raised from productions of The Exonerated are distributed by The Culture Project (a 401c3 organization) to the courageous survivors of death row, to assist them as they transition back into a society they should not have left.
JANUARY 2018
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE
INA ANDERSON
About Ina Anderson
Ina is the owner of Emerging Voices Production Company, a new venture which seeks to bring cultural relevant content to the Fairfield County Theater Community. With a love for seeing stories come to life on stage, she started in the industry as an actress and is now a writer and director. Ina has performed at the Mount Aery Baptist Church and Housatonic Community College located in Bridgeport, Connecticut the Saint Paul Community Baptist Church and Mount Pisgah Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York. Her most recent accomplishments include:
A Double Presentation at the Klein (2017, 2018) of an original Political Satire Musical, TRUMPEDNOTIZED; Writer and Director of MAAFA Influence Productions presents “So What, Now What (2008), Can These Bones Live (2010), I Am A Man (2011), Healing the Land (2011 & 2012), Sankofa; Looking Back Moving Forward (2013), The Journey of Shoes (2014), Shaking the Tree (2015), For Every Mountain (2016).
About Emerging Voices Production Company
EMERGING VOICES PRODUCTION COMPANY specializes in writing and producing Historical Drama and Musicals. The materials written are tagged “From Page to Stage Theater!” Which means the plays written are based on truths/facts that are researched and explored on past/present moments in history to engage the audience to think outside of the norms. Ina Anderson, CEO and owner of EVPC has been writing and directing plays for the last 18 years.
The Mission
To provide a constant venue of thought provoking, quality artistic expression based on historical interpretation of the forgotten voices that will emerge through the art of stage acting, dance, and music.
The Vision
It is also my desire to involve the youth of surrounding communities with the opportunity to learn and present theater, to help ease the burden of “Urban living ” through the expression of dramatization of stage presence and to partnership with different organization to bring the community together as a whole body!
As an African American woman in America, it is my hope that my work during this 21st Century, through the Emerging Voices Production Company, will have opportunity to use the stage through various genres to engage audiences, from all walks of life, to remember the past, feel and live in their present and consciously weigh the possible outcomes of the decisions or the lack thereof which will for many dictate the future. To remind all people that we have more in common than we do differences!
Psychodrama, which is my preferred style of writing, it is a writing form that allows the creative team to adapt informative, healing, and historical storytelling that transforms thoughts, ideas, and lives for all who come to experience it!
As the former writer/director of the Acclaimed MAAFA Influence Productions which is now in its 14th stand-alone year presented by the Mount Aery Development Corporation and annually hosted by the Mount Aery Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT! To date, MAAFA here in CT has been seen by approximately 20,000 persons from across the country and over 3000 students in the Bridgeport, New Haven, Trumbull and Stamford school systems and the Bridgeport Catholic Dioceses. It has also been viewed by such noted persons as Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, Pastor Emeritus, and Rev Dr. Otis Moss III of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago; Author and Pan African Activist Randall Robinson, Professor and Author Dr. Joy DeGruy – Leary, Actor Ben Vereen, Rev Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood. Rev. Al Sharpton and world renown clinical psychologist Na’im Akbar just to name a few.
As a playwright, my legacy to my family and society is to deliver conscious materials that will inspire the human spirit to learn, live, love and laugh. To resist in order to exist and to leave my imprint on society in hopes that someone will one day look back upon my contributions in order to access how far we have come and how far we will always have to go!
I am looking forward to putting out quality and wonderful presentations, as I hope people are looking forward to supporting and enjoying the work!
Artist Q&A
Q. You describe your writing as “From Page to Stage Theater!” Why do you think it is important to engage past and present history in your work?
A. It’s a teaching tool. I love history and to make inform decisions you must know something of which you are speaking about. Most people don’t know much about history, so it is amazing how combining history and art stimulate the brain and the heart.
Q. In your vision you state:
“it is also my desire to involve the youth of surrounding communities with the opportunity to learn and present theater, to help ease the burden of “Urban living ” through the expression of dramatization of stage presence and to partnership with different organization to bring the community together as a whole body!”
How do you think theater, and your work specifically, impacts area youth and community?
A. Our children in particularly (Black and Brown) need to know their history beyond the slave, and that they have value. With the work I did within Mount Aery it was important to teach the history, all of it, to empower our children and their families. Theater helps them to act out and work through traumatic experiences and stigmas and teaching them to how to look at themselves through a different lens through the disciplines of learning about the work they will perform, as well as acting, dancing and singing.
Q. Why is Psychodrama your preferred style of writing?
A. Psychodrama is a writing form that allows me to creative and adapt informative, healing, and historical storytelling that transforms thoughts, ideas, and lives for all who come to experience it! it!
Q. Can you share a bit about your creative process? When did you become interested in theater and why? What inspires you?
A. It starts with a thought, an experience or from conversing with one of my parents or listening to the elders talk about life when they were coming up. I then research the times and era. I became interested in the theater long before I was able to go. Then I started going to Broadway at the age of 11; I’ve been in love with it ever since. What inspires me is my love for history and I love teaching it, in particularly my own. So, I study it and come up with a story-line.
Q. How is being an actress, writer, and director different? How are they the same?
A. As an actress your responsibility is to make the character come to life. A writer tells the story and a director takes the writer’s work and moves it off the page to bring the writers work to life in a way that the audience can connect. How are the 3 jobs same? It’s all imagination, a thought to take something that is abstract and make it concrete so that the audience can interpret and hope leave feeling connected and satisfied.
Q. Can you tell me more about your production of “Trumpednotized”? What do you hope to convey in this production?
A. Trumpednotized, a Political Satire Musical has now played twice at the Klein to two great audiences and has been well received by a well-mixed audience of race, age, gender and politics. “TRUMPEDNOTIZED” is a Political Satire Musical that is deeper than the sole intention of #45. It’s about “We the People” Where we have been and more importantly where we are going! All the disciplines of the arts are being used. So, whether you’ve been Trumped as in “up” or “less”, I am sounding the trumpet, because although most have been very sleepy or hypnotized, Wake up!
I am left to question the foolery of politics and peoples’ willingness to err on the side of it and question moral judgement and my conveyance is for each of to look at ourselves and reconsider.
Q. What advice would you give to someone who was interested in theater as a playwright, director, or actor?
A. Do your homework and research because with very few exceptions does it happen overnight. For the actor audition and go to workshops, make sure you have your headshots, for the playwright start with short stories and vision boards, have someone you trust to read your work. Enter as many contests as you can find. Go to the theater, volunteer at the theater, and for the director take classes to learn the language of theater and lighting and all the components that will help a vision come to life in the best light. If it’s your passion, then go for it or you’ll spend your life wondering what would had ever became of your dream!
Q. Can you share about your upcoming events?
Thursday, February 22, 2018, from 7 pm to 8:30 pm, we invite you to “Black History is American History” A Black History Program at the Armstrong Gallery.
Saturday, March 17, 2018 @ 5pm we will celebrate Women’s History Month! “ME TOO!”
Come out and engage in a conversation after a mini performance of ‘4 Women” of where Women in American are heading in this Cultural Tsunami of the 21st Century!
* These events will be held at 305 Knowlton Street, Bridgeport, CT in the Armstrong Gallery.
Donation $5
August 17 – 19, 2018
Emerging Voices Production Company presents “TRADING PLACES”, A Johnathan Daniel Story, From Civil Rights to Martyrdom, at the Bijou Theater. More info Coming Soon!
Q. Anything else you’d like to share?
A. If anyone is interested in becoming a sponsor of my work please, let’s have a conversation
DECEMBER 2017
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE:
KENNETH HOPKINS
NEW ENGLAND BALLET COMPANY
When we first featured Kenneth Hopkins and the New England Ballet (NEBCO) company in 2015, they had just moved to their downtown Bridgeport location at 130 Elm Street. Since then, the New England Ballet Company has grown as a presence in the City of Bridgeport as well as Fairfield County.
For our December Artist of the Month feature we revisited the NEBC to highlight their iconic Nutcracker live performance this holiday season.
About New England Ballet Company
NEBCO current goals are continuing the growth & increase in dance students for our downtown Bridgeport studio located at 130 Elm Street. Also the continuance of area outreach dance programming. Such as our ballet program at Curiele School & the Adaptive Nutcracker
How do you think you’ve changed/grown as an artist?
Artistically a long time dream was achieved with the collaboration of Peter & the Wolf between New England Ballet Company & the Greater Bridgeport Youth Orchestra performed at the University of Bridgeport.
What can attendees expect from the Nutcracker performance?
Nutcracker is a Holiday Tradition that for many kicks off their season of celebrating. New England Ballet Company’s production is one that follows the classical traditions of the ballet while incorporating the rich color pallet often associated with the Christmas Holidays!
What news or projects are you excited for coming up?
NEBCO current goals are continuing the growth & increase in dance students for our downtown Bridgeport studio located at 130 Elm Street. Also the continuance of area outreach dance programming such as our ballet program at Curiele School & the Adaptive Nutcracker.
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VISIT THE NEBCO WEBSITE
NOVEMBER 2017
BRIDGEPORT ART TRAIL FEATURES
BPT Art Trail News: Downtown Kick-Off Party November 9th! Plus, your day-by-day guide!
BPT Art Trail 2017: Nov 9-12! Kick-off party, open studios, and more!
OCTOBER 2017
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE:
DANIEL RECINOS
This month we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and feature Daniel Recinos as part of the Artist of the Month Series.
Daniel Recinos is an artist based out of Bridgeport, Connecticut, working through film and photography to archive the urban world before it disappears. Daniel is the founder of the Recinos Company, a visual media and marketing company that boasts campaigns for Absolut, the New York Power Authority, Viacom, and multiple non-profit projects for the city of Bridgeport.
Daniel Recinos is an active participant of Bridgeport Art Trail 2017. He is coordinating #100 Shots photography and video pop-up. He will also screen the film “Respect The Passion” at the Bijou Theatre. The film documents the six Bridgeport visual artists of #100 Shots, a group of peers who network, collaborate and support their collective and individual creative, professional and personal growth.
ART TRAIL WEEKEND
DATES TBA
Daniel Recinos “Respect The Passion”
Local musician and visual artist Daniel Recinos documents 6 Bridgeport visual artists of #100 Shots, a group of peers who network, collaborate and support their collective and individual creative, professional and personal growth. This documentary presents a resilient group of artists working individually and together, generating a shared energy that spurs them to seek out opportunities to create and make beauty from the mundane. Through interview and videography Recinos captures a behind-the-lens view of their process and perception of the world through their commercial and private works.
#100 Shots Photography and Video pop-up at 1103 Main St.
A collaborative group of local visual artists transform a raw storefront space in into a chic, minimal photography and video pop-up. #100 Shots present portrait, landscape, street and abstract along with video screenings and installation by Yves Wilson, showcasing their perception of the world through art. The deep space configuration of the storefront location provides a gritty warehouse/ working space atmosphere for screening videos and stoking the viewer’s imagination.
#100 Shots Photography and Video pop-up at 1103 Main St. – Artists of #100
Donaven Doughty: Donaven ”Callow” Doughty is a photographer and co-founder of 100 From The Line, a photography and marketing company based out of Bridgeport, CT. Callow’s artistic philosophy revolves around giving 100% to his craft with zero shortcuts - keeping the reminder in his company’s name. His dedication spans from travel photography to portraits, focusing on stories that never have the chance to be told. Visiting these locations allows him learn as an artist, which pushes Callow’s work toward his effort to forget excuses and find creative solutions. (www.callowlens.com)
Gary Pivot: Gary ”Pivot” Judkins is a self-taught photographer and co-founder of 100 From The Line based in Bridgeport, Connecticut. His work displays the dichotomy of his home state, using a curated style to capture the glamor and the grit. Specializing in portrait, lifestyle, travel, and product photography, Gary incorporates clear storytelling with powerful images that can tailor to any appeal. (www.garypivot.com)
Brandon Smith: Brandon Smith “Whiskey & Oxfords” is a photographer based in Connecticut, working with brands throughout North America. Specializing in lifestyle, portrait and landscape photography, Brandon works to create visual stories that capture energy, personality, and good vibes. (www.whiskeyandoxfords.com)
Joe Nsadhal: Joel Nsadha is an award-winning photographer from Jinja, Uganda. Currently based in Bridgeport, CT, Joel’s photography and film has received recognition from publications such as CNN Africa, the East African Magazine, Gestalten, and National Geographic. Joel’s work has been exhibited internationally, with his portraits and landscapes seeking to capture the spirit of the people and places he visits. (www.joelnsadha.com)
Yves Francois Wilson: Yves François Wilson is a multidisciplinary visual artist creating works on paper and found objects, focusing on lost or forgotten histories with a broad cultural knowledge and vocabulary. Yves’ emphasis is on creating new representations of lineage through eclectic mediums, opening up a dialogue between the subject in the work and the audience. (www.yvesfwilson.com)
Daniel Recinos: Daniel Recinos is an artist based out of Bridgeport, Connecticut, working through film and photography to archive the urban world before it disappears. Daniel is the founder of the Recinos Company, a visual media and marketing company that boasts campaigns for Absolut, the New York Power Authority, Viacom, and multiple non-profit projects for the city of Bridgeport. Daniel’s style balances a professional touch with the realities around him - focusing on people, rather than just their projects. (www.therecinoscompany.com)
Screening at the Bijou
Daniel Recinos “Respect The Passion”
Bridgeport Art Trail 11/9-11/13
Date TBA
Artists featured in this documentary are:
Donaven Doughty: Donaven “Callow” Doughty is a photographer and co-founder of 100 From The Line, a photography and marketing company based out of Bridgeport, CT. Callow’s artistic philosophy revolves around giving 100% to his craft with zero shortcuts
Gary Pivot: Gary “Pivot” Judkins is a self-taught photographer and co-founder of 100 From The Line based in Bridgeport, Connecticut. His work displays the dichotomy of his home state, using a curated style to capture the glamor and the grit. Specializing in portrait, lifestyle, travel, and product photography.
Joe Nsadhal: Joel Nsadha is an award-winning photographer from Jinja, Uganda. Currently based in Bridgeport, CT, Joel’s photography and film has received recognition from publications such as CNN Africa, the East African Magazine, Gestalten, and National Geographic. Joel’s work has been exhibited internationally, with his portraits and landscapes seeking to capture the spirit of the people and places he visits.
Yves Francois Wilson: Yves François Wilson is a multidisciplinary visual artist creating works on paper and found objects, focusing on lost or forgotten histories with a broad cultural knowledge and vocabulary. Yves’ emphasis is on creating new representations of lineage through eclectic mediums, opening up a dialogue between the subject in the work and the audience. (www..yvesfwilson.com)
Daniel Recinos is an artist based out of Bridgeport, Connecticut, working through film and photography to archive the urban world before it disappears. Daniel is the founder of the Recinos Company, a visual media and marketing company that boasts campaigns for Absolut, the New York Power Authority, Viacom, and multiple non-profit projects for the city of Bridgeport. Daniel’s style balances a professional touch with the realities around him – focusing on people, rather than just their projects. (www.therecinoscompany.com)
Lindsay Thompson is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and educator who attended UNC School of the Art, where she studied Film Directing under Peter Bogdanovich. Her Recent projects include writing for the PBS show Arthur and creating the storyline for an educational computer game with Curriculum Associates.
Lindsay Thompson “Travel Light” 80 minutes
550 miles, 4 filmmakers, 2 cameras,
1 ancient pilgrimage across Spain
“It has been said that you know a culture by the stories it tells. If the world converges on Santiago de Compostela every year, bringing stories of pain, redemption, transition, truth and the beauty of the human experience… could there be a better place to go and collect stories? To see the heartbeat of a world that’s changing so quickly? “
In the summer of 2013, four young American filmmakers crossed 500 miles of Spain’s Camino de Santiago with just their backpacks, basic supplies… and their cameras.
Along the way, they captured their own experiences and the intimate stories of the pilgrims they met from all over the world to seek truth on the Camino and find their individual interpretation, “to travel light”, practically, psychologically and spiritually.
Learn More:
https://www.travelightfilm.com/the-film/
http://www.suchtalltales.com/#overview-1
SEPTEMBER 2017
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE:
LIZ SQUILLACE & JULIA-ROSE LIPTAK
For our September 2017 feature we highlight two Bridgeport artists exhibiting in September and working with the community.
Liz Squillace is the owner of Paradox Ink, an art studio specializing in screenprinting, murals + public art. Her latest project, the Painted Stairway Mural on the Broad Street steps in downtown Bridgeport, will have a formal unveiling on September 7th. She is also part of City Lights Gallery’s exhibit Pattern. Join for an opening reception the same evening! Learn more about the process, her partners, and her vision in the below feature.
Julia-Rose Liptak is an artist focusing on abstract painting, illustrations, and mixed media fiber art. She will have a solo-exhibit for her latest painting series Planes at Source Coffeehouse in the Black Rock neighborhood on September 8th. Julia-Rose is also exhibiting in the Norwalk Maritime Garage Gallery exhibit “Memories of our Town”, opening on September 26th. In her feature she shares about her work in both exhibits and her volunteer work with The Kennedy Center’s Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative this past summer.
About Liz Squillace and Paradox Ink
Paradox Ink’s mission is to make art more accessible by creating it in public places. Public art such as Liz Squillace’s mural at the Bridgeport Train Station as well as the many painted Utility Boxes that adorn streetscapes in Bridgeport and Stamford are seen by commuters on a daily basis. Paradox Ink has had a storefront located in the Arcade Mall in downtown Bridgeport for over 4 years. Liz was classically trained as an artist at Rhode Island School of Design and currently resides at Read’s ArtSpace live/work studios.
About The Painted Stairway
The mural was designed and implemented with the theme of celebrating the diverse population of Bridgeport collaborating together to achieve unity and prosperity. It began a year ago when I applied for a Regional Initiative Arts Grant, through the State of CT, and when I was introduced to, and partnered with, the social action network, Bridgeport Generation Now! We were awarded the grant and came together throughout the summer to paint the risers of the Broad Street steps.
I was interested in painting this site because of its high profile nature. It can be seen from many vantage points along Broad St. and is an iconic landmark on its own. I’ve been working with Bridgeport Generation Now! and the Bridgeport community to paint the mural.
It began with priming the risers, laying out the design, and starting with one color at a time, taping & painting squares. We held many group sessions, weather permitting, and continued adding new colors until the mural was complete. We’ve been working on it since late June, and finished in late August. It still needs an exterior varnish, which we will be applying before the Unveiling Sept. 7th.
Q. Why did you choose this particular design?
There was a real process that went into creating this custom design. I contemplated the shape and form of what we would be painting, and I knew I would be painting with a group, so I needed a way to break it down simply. To work with the length and height of the stairs, I wanted something that cascaded down as well as rising up. Interconnecting was an important design element to me, as well as colors transitioning into other colors and blending in the center. The double helix can be seen as a DNA strip representing our humanity, the colors mingling as our diversity, and the blending in the center as unity. There is also a retro digital video game aspect that I found to be cool and modern.
Q. Why do you think art in public places are important?
I think it is important to have art in public places because it truly adds a special feeling of wonder and awe to an environment. It also democratizes the art viewing experience and improves the quality of life for those living in and visiting a city.
Q, Any funny or interesting stories about the process?
I’ve noticed people coming to take photos in front of the stairs now, and while they like to take group photos and as couples, inevitably they want to have a photo of themselves alone in front of the piece. It’s like the individual being celebrated within the collective!
Please come down and see the piece for yourself!
Read More:
Fairfield Hamlet Hub: Painted Stairway Mural Official Unveiling: Sept. 7
CT Post: Bridgeport artist, volunteers convert staircase into mural
Liz Squillace will be exhibiting in the Pattern exhibit at City Lights Gallery.
Join for the Painted Stairway Unveiling and exhibit opening in downtown Bridgeport on September 7th, 2017.
About Pattern Exhibit
PATTERN: Exhibit Reception
Thursday, 9/7/17
City Lights Gallery
265 Golden Hill St Bridgeport CT
JOIN US Thursday, 9/7/17 for the FREE artists’ reception 5:30-8:30 pm for the exhibit PATTERN.
Exhibits exploring the principles and elements of design
The first in a series of exhibits exploring the principles and elements of design opens Thursday, September 7, 2017 from 5:30-8:30 pm at City Lights Gallery in Bridgeport. Executive Director Suzanne Kachmar is grateful to Jane Davila for contributing her curatorial skills to this collaboration which grew out of conversations regarding programs that explore the basic concepts of visual design.
Artists selected to participate in this exhibit are showing both large and small works that highlight the many facets Pattern and Texture, rendered in a variety of media from fiber art to painting to weaving. Participating artists include Adger Cowans and Liz Squillace of Bridgeport, Gwen Hendrix of Oxford, Norma Schlager of Danbury, Tim Reimer of Stratford, and Jahmane West of Norwalk.
Q. Why did you choose to participate in this exhibit?
I chose to participate in this exhibit because it seemed a good fit; right up the stairs of my public art piece, been working with pattern lately — and Jane Davila, who is curating the exhibit, is great!
“I am happy to show the preliminary pieces of the Painted Stairway mural.
I think it gives insight into the process that goes into developing a public art mural and shows how things change as the piece is realized.”
What does pattern mean to you in your artwork?
Pattern means a way of organizing information, whether it is a tessellation or a dominant repeating motif. It can be printed on top of like a screenprint on toile. It can be repeated so it can always grow. And, you can play games with it by altering components within it.
Learn More about the Pattern Exhibit Opening
Learn More about Liz Squillace
About Julia-Rose Liptak
I am a Bridgeport resident and native. I formally studied art during my undergraduate experience at SUNY Purchase, but I’ve been creating art since I was a child. My mother is an artist and growing up in a creative household definitely influenced this passion.
As an artist I create abstract paintings, illustrations, and mixed media fiber art. I would describe myself as a constant observer and dreamer with a love of color. My process is an exploration that is often messy and layered. Passion helps me to embrace these experiences as growth with a little humor, heart, and good music.
My artwork is generally rich in color or expressive lines. It celebrates moments of appreciation, potential, and discovery.
“I find inspiration in everything, which is exciting because it means I’m constantly exploring”
Q. Can you tell me about your experience volunteering with MDAC?
MDAC is a program through The Kennedy Center, Inc. that assists individuals with disabilities through creative exploration, self-discovery, and expressive arts projects.
My time working with the artists consisted of helping individuals progress and explore in their creative process. Each artist is unique in their choice of medium or personal projects. I learned a great deal about their vision and assisted them in executing their goals or trying a new approach.
Additionally, I assisted with the facilitation of various expressive art groups including movement and theatre. Lastly, I developed and lead an art-based social skills group in which different social themes were shared through art as well as peer engagement.
The experience was enlightening and rewarding. It ignited my passion for service as well as building more community connections.
Q. Can you tell me about the solo-exhibit at Source Coffeehouse?
The title for the series at Source Coffeehouse is Planes. So much of my abstract work revolves around emotional subjects such as impact, attachment, and schematic relationships. Similarly, Planes was developed out of a desire to explore the concept of personal energy and interaction. The idea is that each individual has their own energy that is constantly changing based on our interaction with ourselves, our environments, and/or our audience. I interpreted those various energy states as planes.
The process of creating these paintings was more philosophically driven than my usual work. For example, I thought about the different energy that was generated during a moment of inspiration, meditation, or life-phase. Color is a major component in all my artwork and I strived to explore different tones for these paintings. I fell in love with a gray for the equilibrium it represented and that shade is a grounding in all the works across this bright series. Expressing these themes visually was a challenge, but I hope that each piece elicits feelings of movement and potential.
I am excited to exhibit at Source Coffeehouse because coffeehouses are naturally environments that encourage the generation of new ideas, productivity, and positive interactions. I feel that this is the perfect location for this type of subject. The work will be up for the month of September.
Learn More about the Planes Exhibit Opening
Q. Can you tell me about the exhibit at the Maritime Gallery and how your works relate to the theme?
The exhibit at the Maritime Garage Gallery, “Memories of Our Town,” features art that represents the unique memories of places we call home. I have two abstract paintings in the show inspired by Bridgeport, Connecticut. I’ve always had an affinity for urban beauty and a great deal of pride for my hometown. These artworks transform industry into vibrant color fields. They celebrate the architecture and spaces of a city with a rich history, as well as possibility.
Learn More about the Memories of Our Town Exhibit Opening
Q. Anything else you’d like to share?
I was fortunate enough to be exposed to art at a young age. Even as a child I was able to identify famous artists I admired, learn their stories, struggles, and successes. In addition to being an artist, I am passionate about child development and education.
I strongly believe that we need to make art exposure and opportunity available to our youth.
Learn More About Julia-Rose Arts
AUGUST 2017
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE: ROBIN GILMORE
In our August 2017 Artist of the Month feature artist Robin Gilmore discusses her extensive experience working in the arts and community for more than 30 years. From mechanical chickens to art bras, Robin shares about working with Bridgeport schools and organizations, her love for vintage fashion and City Lights Vintage, and why she thinks artists play an important role in Bridgeport.
“Some days I can’t keep up with all the creative ideas running through my head, I am inspired by so many things in my environment, and am always designing, problem solving, anything from a simple collage, a new style of jewelry, a garden plan, a new recipe, re designing a new idea for a space in my home or studio, or teaching myself something new.”
ABOUT ROBIN GILMORE
Robin Gilmore (Jopp) is a mixed media artist, focusing on jewelry designed from repurposed and found materials, collage created with antique images, also 2& 3 dimensional assemblage, found art sculpture. Robin is always up for a challenge as she sews, cooks, crotchets, writes, sings, photographs, redesigns furniture or household items, redesigns her clothes, and collects antiques and memorabilia especially about Bridgeport. Robin is also a teaching artist who has served the community in many different venues and for many different arts organizations for more than 30 years. Her favorite past time is repurposing and upcycling with kids and adults.
Her dream is to publish a book or two with poetry inspired by her artwork and a book with lesson plans for making art with repurposed materials.
“My best ideas and those that give me trouble are answered in my dreams…the most important thing is to listen to that small still voice and take it seriously and act on it. Every morning when I wake up I have an answer to a question that has been weighing on me. Is it spirit? Yes I think it is.”
Q. Can you tell me a bit about the projects you’ve been taking part in this summer?
It has been a super busy year to date. I HAVE BEEN IN SUPER OVERDRIVE.
The summer has been especially busy teaching and creating projects for elementary school children. I am inspired by opportunities to get kids excited about Art, about protecting our planet and about being aware of our environment through creative work. I had a wonderful summer working at the new Claytor School in Black Rock. I was hired by Arts For Learning for 4 weeks to work along with the Lighthouse program at the Summer Camp. It was an intense experience and I was committed to bringing my “all and everything” to each project.
Currently I am working on a new project with City Lights Gallery at the Ralphola Taylor Community Center on Bridgeport’s East End. I grew up about 6 blocks from the location and also have a teeny tiny studio nearby. The direction of the project is to bring life to a garden that has been vacant for a while with over 13 raised beds. The children are creating garden ornaments, from whirly gigs to wind socks, wind chimes to painted tiles, a chess board and the ideas and collaboration with other artists is really very inspiring. It is great working with such incredible artists and musicians who care so much about this community.
I have been selling at the Downtown Farmer’s market as well as doing art activities and participated in the opening day of the Black Rock Farmers Market. Participated in a number of events showing and selling my jewelry and art with networking events through the Stratford Arts Commission, and had a recent incredible Sunday at Beechwood Arts in Weston accompanied by many artists, poets and musicians for a Salon style event. I am looking for more of these types of events and opportunities. Currently I have some of my jewelry designs at various locations- Spectrum gallery, Norwalk Historical Museum, EcoWorks in New Haven and even more at City Lights Gallery.
Q.Tell me about City Lights Vintage
You’ve worked with vintage and “found” items previously. What attracts you to this style? Your favorite item(s) in the store?
For most of the year it has been a pleasure helping to set up the new City Lights Gallery at 265 Golden Hill Street. I really became an all-purpose and up to anything person, very dedicated to helping this beautiful space shine. It is one of my favorite places in the City. So much light and space, beautiful art and I feel very connected to the hub of activity and potential the gallery brings to the community. And I also feel a real sense of pride knowing I had a hand in supporting their mission.
After the move to the new gallery, then came the setting up and cleaning, painting of the old 855 Main St location with the idea of creating a Vintage shop. I was so excited as about 2 ½ years ago I left my Made In Bridgeport shop in the Arcade Mall and have been storing all the vintage merchandise from the shop that I am sure I was saving just for this very thing.
Some of those items can be found at the new City Lights Vintage shop and also every 3rd Saturday at the New Bridgeport Flea market. The Vintage shop is filled with marvelous things, from vintage radios, pottery and furniture to my favorite- Vintage Clothing. I love wearing vintage clothes!!! Another of my favorite items in the store was a mechanical hen that laid eggs. I was crazy about it. It made me laugh. It sold.
I’ve been collecting vintage items since I was 11- my maternal grandmother had an amazing attic filled with so many things from the past. During our visits to Maine to visit her, Grammie Welch would take the family on adventures to auctions and rummage sales would always find clothing she liked and rip it up to make quilts. My grandmother inspired the creative spark in me.
Earlier this summer I was asked to create a “Woolworth’s Window” on the Corner of Fairfield and Main St. It took a while for a vision of how I wanted it to look, but once in my head I was up to the challenge. The window has vintage merchandise from my collections reminiscent of the 50’s and 60’s. I had so much fun putting the window together and happy that so many people look at that window on a daily basis. I love merchandising and window display- it was something I loved doing in my own shop when I was in the Arcade Mall. Always coming up with a creative theme every 6 weeks or so. I am thinking of creating “Got Windows???” I love doing window displays.
Q. What’s next? Are there any projects, markets, etc. you’d like to share about?
I am now preparing to get my work together and creating new stuff for the Bpt Art Trail which is coming real fast in November as well as creating new work for an up and coming show at City Lights called “BOOBS”. The focus is on Breast Cancer awareness, breasts- art, story, identity, healing and much more I am sure. Suzanne has a lot of WOW ideas and I am looking forward to working with her and Gaye Hyre who founded the Art Bra project with the mission to financially assist breast cancer patients with costs not covered by insurance. Within the next few months we will be asking people ( men and women) to create one of a kind artsy bras that will go on auction to help raise funds for the Art Bra project. I have been working on a Barnum and Bailey Bra for a while now, complete with a clown nose, circus animals, circus posters, and of course a box of animal crackers. I just need a Top Hat and someone to model it for the anticipated fashion/ show auction.
Q. Why do you think partnering with the community is important as an artist? In Bridgeport specifically?
Artists deliver something vital and celebratory to their community. It is not just about making the money, but it sure helps pay the bills. Art engages the community in direct conversation, connecting beauty, meaning and purpose. It has a capacity to heal too- partnering with agencies in the community gives participants in programs opportunities to explore and expand areas they might not ever have considered. Artist’s collaboration on projects and programs also creates camaraderie, the ability to share resources and knowledge. I find working with other artists takes me to a whole new dimension in the process of creating. I admire my fellow artists here in Bridgeport- some are even outright magical. Bridgeport needs that magic, that spark that can only be found through the creatives and the visionaries. Art has a voice, a message, speaks to the needs and the celebration of a strong community.
Q. What advice would you give to other artists?
I am 
learning as I go along-Take care of yourself, rest and don’t forget to eat. And don’t bite off more than you can chew… don’t be afraid to say NO when you need to say No and YES when you really want to do something, even if it scares you- but you know you’re really up to the challenge.. Don’t freak out when your art studio looks like it has been ransacked after a day or night of creating…you are not alone in the messiness of creativity, there are many more just like you-Laughing and figuring it out
I left a JOB in 2012 to pursue my creative life. I haven’t had a job in 5 years, I have been on a creative adventure and every encounter and opportunity has brought me- creative abundance. I am happy, I am more than grateful, somewhat healthy, not rich and not poor, I laugh, I love, I breath, I create…I live a creative life. It’s all I ever wanted.
JUNE/JULY 2017
EVENT FEATURE: “SAMESEX 2017”
This month we feature City Lights Gallery’s SameSex art exhibit and sponsoring organization, the Triangle Community Center.
In it’s 7th year, the annual exhibit explores LGBT themes, same-sex attraction, related feelings and issues of 2017. Artists need not be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender to participate and exhibit expressions of pride and solidarity.
Schedule of Events:
5:30 to 7:30 Same Sex Exhibit & Reception- $10
7:30 to 8:30 PM Bridgeport Pride March – Free
8:30 to 11 PM Post Pride Party w/Music & Drinks – $20
City Lights Gallery, 265 Golden Hill Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604
“I sense that the convictions and partnerships of the inclusive community that produces and supports this event have grown. We have also developed a roster of exhibiting artists who create and look forward to participating annually along with returning attendees.
Every year we look for a new focus. We are collaborating with our building neighbors, the New England Ballet Company and the Downtown Cabaret Theatre to organize a post-party event. Plans in progress for the variety show line-up include members of Les Ballets Eloelle an all male comedy ballet company and a Liberace tribute.” –Suzanne Kachmar, Executive Director of City Lights Gallery
ABOUT THE TRIANGLE COMMUNITY CENTER
Fairfield County’s LGBTQ Community Center
Triangle Community Center is Fairfield County’s leading provider of programming and resources to nurture growth and connection within the LGBTQ community.
TCC is the only organization focused exclusively on the LGBTQ community in Fairfield County. TCC has existed for 27 years and until 2013 operated without full-time staff. TCC offers programs, services and events that provide critical and in some cases life-saving resources and assistance to the LGBTQ community in Fairfield County. TCC offers a co-sponsored housing program that works directly with TCC’s case manager, provides emergency financial assistance to clients in need, and other direct services. TCC works closely with Mid-Fairfield AIDS Project and World Health Clinicians on HIV/AIDS related outreach, testing initiatives, and creating a more informed and healthy LGBTQ community.
TCC served over 200 case management clients in 2015 alone, after that program’s inauguration in January of that year. We also serve over 300 individuals who attend our programs and services on a weekly basis as well as over 2000 members of the Fairfield County community who attend a TCC program or event at least once a year. While our primary service area is Fairfield County, we often see people travel from Westchester, New Haven, and Litchfield counties to attend one of the programs we offer. TCC’s key target population is the LGBTQ community in Fairfield County, however we welcome all who seek our services and have many clients who do not identify as LGBTQ.
(From TCC Website)
Arts at Pride in the Park
Pride in the Park 2017 was a Fairfield County LGBTQ Pride festival and open to all. Pride in the Park is a family-friendly Pride festival that brings you internationally-known entertainers and local performers. This year, the event featured Trixie Mattel from RuPaul’s Drag Race, comedian Julie Goldman, and musician Crystal Waters for free and live performances!
Iyaba Ibo Mandingo of City Lights Gallery was a participant at Pride in the Park, 2017
Photo Credit: The Hour Newsroom.
MAY 2017
ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEATURE: “WORKING LARGE”
CARLOS DAVILA & RICK SHAEFER
This month we have a themed Artist of the Month feature “Working Large”.
“Working Large” highlights the recent large-scale installations of two Nest Arts Factory artists: Carlos Davila and Rick Shaefer.
Davila’s Titanosaurus sculpture measures 12′ high, 16′ long, and 7′ wide, and it weighs approximately 480 lbs. It is on display in a public park in Suwanee, Georgia for a two-year exhibit called SculpTour, which opens May 20 this year and runs through April 2019.
Schafer’s drawing of the American Bison, an 8′ x 12′ triptych was purchased by the State Department for their Art in Embassies Program. It is now installed in the new embassy in Chad, Africa as a potent symbol of our American history. He hopes his work adds to the dialogue about saving endangered species.
Learn more about these artists below.
CARLOS DAVILA
ABOUT THE SCULPTURE
I have installed a large-scale outdoor sculpture in a public park in Suwanee, Georgia for a two-year exhibit called SculpTour, which opens May 20 this year and runs through April 2019. My sculpture, Titanosaurus, is a stylized, abstracted, contemporary dinosaur. I chose the form of a dinosaur because it is ideal for a family-friendly, interactive sculpture. Kids (of all ages) are fascinated by dinosaurs. These creatures can represent speed, power, or the ability to fly, while offering a form of escapism as a child imagines that they can be and do anything. They allow for infinite imaginary adventures.
This sculpture is constructed of marine-grade plywood that can withstand harsh weather and extreme temperatures, and does not split, crack, or warp, and each component is attached with stainless steel hardware (nuts, bolts, screws, base plates, etc.)
The dimensions of the Titanosaurus sculpture are 12′ high, 16′ long, and 7′ wide, and it weighs approximately 480 lbs. It stands on a concrete pad 16″ long and 8″ wide, provided by the city of Suwanee.
WORKING LARGE
I work on a large scale because public art often needs to be large, having something huge that people can interact with (walk under or through) enhances their experience of it. Large public art also enhances and complements the area in which it is installed, giving residents something beautiful to see and feel pride in, and helps a town or city solidify a reputation for supporting art and culture, both of which are vital to quality of life.
When I traveled to Georgia to install the Titanosaurus, I was delighted to see how dedicated the city of Suwanee was to making space for art and particularly public art in their city. It was a magical sight, sculptures all around their city hall, sculptures as part of their public performing arts space, sculptures in their shopping areas. How rich the experience of the people living and visiting there! It is my hope that locally in Bridgeport, the same can be achieved.
I like to challenge myself to push materials and forms to their limits, to bring a vision in my head to larger-than-life reality.
I usually start with a sketch, then create a detailed to-scale drawing, which then becomes a small model, or maquette, before finally advancing to constructing the actual components of a large work. There are many variables to be considered when creating a large scale work, especially one meant to be displayed outdoors – things like durability, public safety, potential future maintenance, strength of materials, and scale.
MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST
I am currently working on more large-scale sculptures in this series, some depicting abstracted creatures, and others in geometric forms. Last week I exhibited several wall sculptures in the Portal Art Fair in Soho, New York City and I have several other upcoming exhibits.
CONTACT: www.carlos-davila.com
RICK SHAEFER
THE PROCESS
In my drawing practice I tend to always come back to the line work. I find what I respond to and admire in other artists’ work, past or present, is usually the integrity of the line – whether it’s a single stroke or a mass of scribble in the shadows. Before I began this current series of charcoal drawings I studied Rembrandt’s etchings and Durer’s woodcuts for several months admiring the choices made and the economy of line. When I finally started the first drawing it ended up being a life-size rendering of a fallen Oak near me and was 5′ x 19′ which forced me to break out of any formality or preciousness in the technique and become more fluid.
WORKING LARGE
For me the scale of larger drawings compels a distinct approach to the process of the mark-making — more gestural, almost calligraphic. If the rhythm is there you find yourself writing your way across the surface as if capturing thought in a frenzied rush of note taking.
I prefer drawing flora and fauna as near to life size as I can to capture the immediacy of the subject for the viewer. The first animal I did was an Indian Rhino which grew out of a fascination with Durer’s woodcut of the same. That drawing, and the American Bison which followed, were each 8′ x 12′ triptychs.
To be confronted by the animal full size and close up, and in your immediate space, gives a fresh perspective to our relationship with them.
MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST
I hope it adds to the dialogue about saving endangered species. The Rhino went to Mexico City and the American Bison was just purchased by the State Department for their Art in Embassies Program. It is now installed in the new embassy in Chad, Africa as a potent symbol of our American history.
The Refugee Trilogy, my response to the ongoing refugee crisis, is traveling to several venues in 2017 – 2018 and I will have a solo show of landscapes and animal drawings at Sears Peyton Gallery in NYC in the Fall 2017.
CONTACT
Website: www.rickshaefer.com
Instagram: @rickshaefer
APRIL 2017: ARTIST OF THE MONTH
IYABA IBO MANDINGO
Artist Statement:
I am a multi-disciplined Artist from the Griot tradition, my objective is to use the material be it paint, ink, “garbage” found objects, words, acting, singing to tell the story of us…
Can you tell me about about the show “Unframed” and your role in it?
I began writing unFRAMED 15 years ago. As a multi-disciplined artist , I use paint, poetry, song and acting to tell the journey of my life as a boy in the Caribbean to a manhood in America.
You recently did a performance piece Afrika360. Can you tell me about that?
Afrika 360 grew out of my journey to Afrika in 2015. A month in South Afrika and 4 months in Nigeria rewired me in more ways than I can identify sometimes. One of the main ways is in my aesthetic as an artist. The performance piece in Afrika grows out of the foundation of Afrikan rituals and ceremonies. There’s a depth that I’ve never seen in western theatre. One is taught in western theatre to never break the fourth wall. In Afrikan theatre there is no fourth wall. So, for me, Afrika 360 represents the full 360 degree return to my source to the place my bloodline was stolen from.
What was the experience like participating in the exhibit “How we see you”?
“How We See You: A Perspective of Black Women Through the Eyes of Black Men” was a celebration of the black woman. Not only my mother, my grandmother, my wife, my sisters, and my daughters, but also as the mother of creation itself, of all of us.
Do you have any shows or exhibits in the Bridgeport area currently?
We just wrapped up Obsidian Colored Glasses at the Read ArtSpace. The exhibit was a multi artist show celebrating black artists. We are currently preparing work for the open studios this weekend at the Nest Arts Factory.
Other events/exhibits you’d like to share about?
My one man play unFRAMED will be making its off-Broadway debut. We open on April 5, 2017 and will have weekly shows through Mother’s Day. For more information and tickets, go to www.unFRAMEDtheshow.com
How do you think you’ve changed as an artist since last featured in the BPT Art Trail Newsletter?
As I’ve said before, going to Afrika feels and felt like I’ve achieved something I had been trying to do
More about Iyaba Ibo Mandingo
How would you describe your artwork/style?
I would describe my work as Neo-African Art…it is the embracing or re-embracing of Africa the continent and the cultures as an aesthetic over European influences.
What medium do you work in?
all of the above…I use everything, allow the material to tell me what it wants to do…this is also true for applying color, housepaint w/ dirt, pastels n oil sticks, acrylics, makers n pencils all offer a different way to tell the story.
What is your process like?
It varies depending on the objective, but usually my senses are awakened by a particular thing, incident or moment…I then listen through which ever sense reacted most to hear how it wants to come and what it wants to say.
FEBRUARY 2017: ARTIST OF THE MONTH
OLIVIER J-P KPOGNON
Olivier J-P Kpognon is an international lifestyle photographer and founder of O & Co. Media Group, a full-service photography, film and design studio launched in 2003.
Born in Belgium of a French mother and a Beninese Father and raised in the Washington DC area, Olivier developed a keen appreciation for international travel, style, design and the arts. Since launching his company, he has traveled throughout the United States and around the world – using his talents and expertise to capture his clients’ most memorable moments.
He has a formidable reputation among both his peers and clients for his exceptional creativity, talent and professionalism. He is an active and longstanding member of Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) & Professional Photographers of America (PPA). Olivier’s work is regularly published in bridal magazines such as Destination I Do and World Bride Magazine. In 2012, Olivier was distinguished as the Entrepreneur of the Year from the Westchester and Greater Connecticut Chapter of the National Black MBA Association.
The company’s client list includes multinational corporations such as GE, Boehringer Ingelheim, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, Diageo, UBS and Kraft Foods. Olivier is proud of his work and relationships with local small businesses in his community and teaches photography to high school students. He was the official photographer for Fred’s Team representing the internationally-renown Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; the second largest team in the annual New York City Marathon. His company also serves private clients providing services that include portraits, families, and special events such as weddings.
Olivier credits his success to his willingness to leave a 10-year corporate finance career in commercial banking to pursue his passion. His advice to all is; “know you can follow your passion, finding your passion is key: talent, alone, is not enough and, if you do what you’re passionate about, you will be more motivated to succeed.” One of is his favorite quotes is, “I love what I do and I do what I love.”
Q&A with Olivier J-P Kpognon
How would you describe your artwork/style?
My artwork/style is photojournalistic or documentary as shown in my latest photo exhibit “How We See You”
What medium do you work in?
I work in digital imagery
What is your process like?
My process is both spontaneous and calculated as I search for inspiration and potential subjects.
What inspires you?
Life inspires me. Anything can inspire me: people, places, colors and events.
Can you tell me more about leaving the Finance field and starting O &Co. Media Group. What was that process like? What motivated the shift?
I voluntarily left my corporate life to try my hand at a career in photography because it was my passion. When I discovered that others where making a living from it, particularly the photographer that I was sub-contracting for, I gave my resignation. I created a website of my work and advertised my company on a very popular wedding web portal site to get exposure. Additional personal reasons motivated the shift such as the influence of my mother who was an artist.
You have worked with many notable clients. Are there some projects that stand out to you that you’d like to share about?
I have worked with many clients in settings all around the world. Most notably Nicole Garwood of Garwood Events for the grand opening of the Temenos Golf Club. That opening was a weeklong event in the beautiful country of Anguilla with star-studded celebrities.
In your opinion, how is wedding photography different from regular photography?
Wedding photography differs in the sense that it combines many different types of photography into one event: product, portrait, landscape, flash and nighttime photography among others. Add to the fact that you are photographing a very emotional day with many people in a short amount of time, under changing lighting conditions with no room for errors.
How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
I shoot more from my heart and think less about the technical since I know what I’m doing. I have increased my level of confidence over the years which helps me to connect with my subject.
Can you tell me a bit about your work in the “How we see you” exhibition?
The “How We See You” exhibition is a collection of street images I took in Bamako, Mali portraying everyday women and life in this capital city.
Why were you interested in participating in this show?
I wanted to portray women of color in a positive light. I also wanted to highlight the beauty of daily scenes in Africa in my own way.
What are some topics you addressed in your artist talk?
I discussed what I believe is a women’s strengths, love, work and superior intellect and show how women are thriving in challenging contexts.
Any additional information or upcoming events you’d like to share?
I am planning several photography events this month in CT and currently working on funding a trip for a coffee table book called “54” showcasing life in the 54 African countries.
JANUARY 2017: ORGANIZATION OF THE MONTH
THE SCHELFHAUDT GALLERY
This month Gallery Director Peter Konsterlie shared about the Schelfhaudt Gallery, their upcoming exhibition,and talks with artists about their panel discussion during the 2016 Bridgeport Art Trail.
About the Schelfaudt Gallery
The ABC Gallery, which originally opened in 1968 at the Arnold Bernhard Center, has a terrific history of commitment to its local community and the Arts. The gallery has featured some of the most important artists in American art from Robert Motherwell to Red Grooms, Louise Nevelson, and Alice Neel. In October 2012, The University of Bridgeport changed the gallery’s name to the Schelfhaudt Gallery, in honor of Peter Schelfhaudt, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the advertising firm Creative Partners. Mr. Schelfhaudt’s gift to UB supports the gallery, through exhibitions and visiting-artist programs, the Arnold Bernhard Center and to the great benefit of the University and the surrounding community. Artists provide unique insight into the human experience, reflect society, expose its humanity, and ideally lead and inspire. I am pleased to support the University’s commitment to resurrecting the vitality of the Arnold Bernhard Center so that students and the local community can enjoy and participate in the arts.
The Schelfhaudt Gallery is one of the largest and prestigious galleries of the Fairfield area, boasting of more than 3500 square feet of exhibition space. Based in the newly renovated Shintaro Akatsu School of Design on the University of Bridgeport Campus, it stands as a high watermark of creative thought and design. The gallery’s mission statement is to showcase mid-career and emerging professional artists for cultural and educational experiences. Located by the beautiful shoreline of Long Island Sound, it is an oasis for culture and the arts.
About the Reality of Abstraction exhibit and Panel Discussion
Abstract art has had a wide birth of creation. Hard-edged and painterly brush strokes permeate the gallery with colorful expression. The exhibition consists of paintings, and sculptures looking through the lenses of nonobjective imagery. The exhibition is a great sampling of what today’s contemporary artists are doing.
Curated by Peter Konsterlie.
Featured artists include: Cat Balco, Mike Childs, Rob Fischer, Chris Mercier, Anne Sherwood Pundyk, David Rich, Vincent Verrillo, Cecilia Whittaker-Doe, Becky Yazdan
Notes on the Reality of Abstraction Panel Discussion November 2016
Konsterlie: How much Do you identify with Abstract Expressionists?
Anne Sherwood Pundyk I have always identified strongly with the Abstract Expressionists, even when I was working figuratively. I admire their commitment to bringing an introspective mode and a formal radicalism to American painting. Clyfford Still’s work especially appeals to me now because of his spare pictorial language that relies on flat, irregular expanses of color. His work seems to refer to dry, western or even lunar landscapes, but also evokes the realm of sensation and skin. I just reviewed the recent landmark Abstract Expressionist exhibition at the Royal Academy in London. Here is a link to my review: http://www.artcritical.com/2016/11/05/anne-sherwood-pundyk-on-abstract-expressionism/
David Rich About 29%. (joke) When I was in high school, a major show of Willem de Kooning made a big impact on me for the combination of improvisation and cohesiveness. I also loved Philip Guston, both for the density of his work, and later for his impatience with how abstract expressionism had settled into a too-predictable genre. Remember that by the 1950’s there was a lot of very derivative and mannered abstract expressionist painting. The movement carries a lot of historical baggage, including assumptions about universals, of which many of us today are skeptical.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe I identify with the gesture of their work; that meaning and energy can be encompassed in the gesture of a brushstroke. I think it’s a generous way to communicate through paint in that it requires the artist to believe that the action of their efforts will carry their knowledge and experience. In my own work I use various technique and feel that I can draw upon the findings of others before me. I love being an image maker first and foremost, and believe the image is arrived at both physically on the paintings surface, and visually for the viewer.
Cat Balco hindered by the bravado of Ab. Ex. William deKooning,
Vincent Verrillo I like the Ab. Ex. Emotional impact.
Becky Yazdan There is something incredibly seductive about Abstract Expressionism. The emotion, the materials, the grand scale… The stories of de Kooning, Pollock and Rothko hanging out at Cedar Tavern haunted me while I was studying at the New York Studio School on 8th St. Ultimately, though I think some of them took themselves too seriously and the massive scale was so tied up in machismo which was a turn-off.
Konsterlie: Who are your influences?
Anne Sherwood Pundyk I love the work of the post-impressionist painter Edouard Manet for both the magic of his paint handling and the way he challenged narrative conventions. Modern and contemporary painters I admire include Matisse, Joan Mitchell, Helen Frankenthaler and Alan Shields, but also the color and light installations of James Turrell, the activist work of Suzanne Lacy and modern dancers such as Merce Cunningham. The work that I’m doing now brings together the essence of my interest in traditional painting with movement, dance and gesture. I am not making a window into another space the way a painting typically works, but bringing the space in my work out to envelop my audience. I want them to be the subject of my paintings.
David Rich Elizabeth Murray, Philip Guston, Amy Sillman, Thomas Nozkowski, and others who don’t necessarily look like each other, but who bring a restless inquiry to finding what the next painting needs to be.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe I have influences of course from art history –Burchfield, Bourgeios, O’Keeffe, Degas, El Greco, Chagall, Emile Nolde and his contemporaries. I also have worked with a few artists who had a great impact on me. In the late 80’s, working at Tallix Art Foundry, I had the opportunity to work along side Nance Graves. She was building tree – like forms by welding all kinds of cast objects together – fans, exotic looking vegetables and fruits she found in New York City’s China Town. I assisted her in applying patina onto the finished sculptures. I also worked on a Bill Tucker sculpture, one of the large cast bronze rock – like forms. I liked the way both artists combined aspects of our human form and our natural environment in their work, and in very different ways from each other.
Cat Balco “My influences change all the time, Judy Ledgerwood, Gary Stephan, Stephanie Mann,
Vincent Verrillo El Greco was an influence. Purple and blacks, Hans Hoffman, Jackson Pollock,
Becky Yazdan Alice Neel, Matisse (turtle painting), Gustave Courbet’s Burial at Ornans), Philip Guston’s late work, Nozcowski, Forest Bess
Konsterlie: What do you think about Terry Winters, Bill Jensen, and Joanne Greenbaum’s work?
David Rich: I’ve enjoyed quality time with works by all three. One thing that often strikes me about Terry Winters is that a painting might have a seemingly-simple first read, perhaps two or three main color chords, and after a while the presence of a small amount of a fourth or fifth tone, one that wouldn’t seem to fit, influences the tonality of the whole painting, giving it a slightly dissonant buzz.
Becky Yazdan I studied with Bill Jensen in grad school and he was very influential on my work. He taught me about “getting out of the painting’s way” and allowing the content to emerge rather than forcing your will on the painting. He helped me see that painting is not about fixing things.
Konsterlie: Who are the important abstract painters working today?
David Rich I’m interested in Mark Bradford, and agree that Jackie Saccoccio and Gary Stephan are also relevant.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe I like Jackie Saccoccio’s work. She seems to be able to be very free with the paint and also go back into the paintings without losing the immediacy in the work. “Abstract” is difficult to define when talking about artists. I think it’s really fluid. Louise Fishman, Margaret Evangeline, Merlin James (encompassing a very “fluid” definition of “abstract”) and Charline von Heyl.
Becky Yazdan Nozkowksi, Amy Sillman, Jonathan Lasker, Bill Jensen, Chris Martin
Anne Sherwood Pundyk I am especially taken right now with Katherina Grosse is an important German contemporary painter who creates painting installations and works on different supports, including abandoned houses and piles of dirt. What comes through is her excitement about color and movement. There is an almost disposable feel to her works, but they are grounded in an appreciation of modern painting.
Konsterlie: Does “collage” play a role in development in your composition.
David Rich: Yes, even though none of my paintings in this show involve collage. But the sense of painting incorporating rude interruptions of other materials and everyday life has always been important to me.
Konsterlie: Do you feel the viewer should be able to know what your painting is about?
Anne Sherwood Pundyk Yes. All the decisions I make while creating a painting such as size, materials, combinations of colors, placement of the spills and geometric formations, generate elements that my audience can read while standing in front of my painting. The experience of absorbing all the elements together, as well as other associations they may bring to the work becomes what the painting is “about.”
David Rich For me painting needs to be compelling, like it demands to be read. I don’t mean in a literal way. But there is something confrontational about it, which puts the viewer on the spot. And as the viewer becomes engaged with seeing the painting, the painting takes on something of a train of thought, or time, compressed into a visual object. Abstract painting doesn’t have to be for everybody, but on the other hand, it can be for anybody.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe About 6 years ago I thought of collage as a way of making my compositions in painting. Not to make collages separately, but to start applying the paint in a way that disregarded the linear sense of the composition and instead used the disjointed appearance of collage. Collage works for me when it has this disjointed appearance but at the same time combines lines and imagery to make a whole. This is how I wanted to paint.
Cat Balco Susan Sontag,
Vincent Verrillo modern poetry,
Becky Yazdan The viewer does not need to know what the painting is about, although they need to be able to relate to it in some way. The titles of my paintings offer clues to the content but I am not interested in spelling anything out – I like for them to remain open enough that the viewer can bring in their own associations. My work deals with specific personal experiences and memories and my hope is that by dealing with the particular, the paintings will be accessible to a broader audience through a sense of shared human experience.
Konsterlie: Do you start with something in mind when you start a painting? (Automatic marks)?
Anne Sherwood Pundyk I find that the first freeform spills, blot or pours that I make when starting a painting each release a specific kind of energy that becomes part of the work. I will opt to begin on a certain size of canvas or paper and use a color that resonates with me and I even may have an idea of a shape for the paint, but the experience of comparing my intention with the reality of the execution is an important first reckoning.
David Rich For me a painting starts with an idea, a situation, or a conflict and then goes through a restless process of reworking, editing and improvisation. The process is like ‘destination unknown’. Weirdly, though, the painting often ends up pretty consistent with the initial intent.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe For some reason the natural landscape resonates with me. It connects for me not only with our psychological and physical existence within it, but with the visual connections I find between our bodies and the forms within it This is where I begin. I start with either a watercolor gestural painting on the surface or a silkscreened image I’ve prepared. From there I react to what is in front of me and I try to respond to the imagery that is conjured through this process.
Cat Balco “take care of your affections.”
Becky Yazdan My paintings often start with a color idea or a shape I noticed on the walk to the studio – anything to get me started. I don’t know what the end result will be until the painting has asserted itself and the meaning has become (more or less) clear. The goal is for the painting to become its own self, its own idea.
Konsterlie: How do you choose your palette?
Anne Sherwood Pundyk There is both specificity and an improvisational quality to my color combinations. Each color carries associations for me of emotions, place, time or experiences. As I layer and combine different colors, I am melding these associations creating a new personal reality.
David Rich My sense of light constructed from color comes from when I was working from observation. Late afternoon and early evening light often inform my work. It is this relational sense of color, more than symbolism, that shapes the way I work with color intervals.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe “No formula for coloring palette.
Vincent Verrillo “mood or feeling”
Konsterlie: What is the task of “painting” for society?
Anne Sherwood Pundyk Society encourages us almost relentlessly to conform to the views of others, and not to think and feel for ourselves. Painting connects to the value and power of recognizing the individual point of view.
David Rich Instead of being an escape from the world, painting can be a way more deeply into our lived experience. That’s why I like your title for this show, Reality of Abstraction. It suggests that we are not just in our own little subjective bubbles, but rather are engaged in the world, and each other, in an inter-subjective way.
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe it’s like poetry
Cat Balco Mondrian, Theosophical Society- Helena Petrovna Blavatsky
Hilma af Klint (October 26, 1862 – October 21, 1944) was a Sweden artist and mystic whose paintings were amongst the first abstract art. A considerable body of her abstract work predates the first purely abstract compositions by Kandinsky. She belonged to a group called “The Five” (a circle of women who shared her belief in the importance of trying to make contact with the so-called ‘high masters’ – often by way of séances) and her paintings, which sometimes resembled diagrams, were a visual representation of complex spiritual ideas.
ABOUT THE UPCOMING EXHIBITION “SELFIE”
Open Call to Artists: “Selfie” an exhibition of self-portraits
The Schelfhaudt Gallery has a special opportunity for artists to express themselves…literally! We are assembling a show of self-portraits.
During her lifetime, Frida Kahlo created some 200 paintings, 55 of which are self-portraits. When asked why she painted so many self-portraits, Frida replied:”Because I am so often alone…because I am the subject I know best.”
Pablo Picasso posed the question, “Are we to paint what’s on the face, what’s inside the face, or what’s behind it?
If you would like to participate, please email a self-portrait, along with a brief bio, to:selfieselfportrait@gmail.com
SUBMISSION DETAILS: http://www.schelfhaudtgallery.com/press-release-open-call-to-artists/
Q. I see that all mediums are accepted except photography. Why is that?
A. Because the premise of the show is a sample of the self-portrait tradition and not a trending version brought on by a technical advancement of the phone/camera.
OPENING RECEPTION
Please join us on Friday Feb. 10th from 5:00-7:30pm for a wine and cheese and music reception to celebrate the show! Please tell family, friends, and guests are welcome!
Free to attend but kindly RSVP.
The reception is free and open to the public. The exhibition runs through April 8th.
Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 12 to 4 p.m.
Shintaro Akatsu School of Design (SASD) on the University of Bridgeport campus is located in the Arnold Bernhard Center (ABC), 84 Iranistan Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604.
Off street parking is available.
CONTACTS
Reality of Abstraction Artists
Cat Balco http://catbalco.com/home.html
Mike Childs http://www.mikechilds.net
Rob Fischer http://Rob-Fischer.com
Chris Mercier https://www.artslant.com/global/artists/show/12199-christopher-lawrence-mercier?tab=PROFILE
Anne Sherwood Pundyk annepundyk.com
David Rich http://www.davidrich.net
Vincent Verrillo http://www.fairfield-sun.com/32984/abstract-art-on-display-at-the-kershner-gallery/
Cecilia Whittaker-Doe https://ceciliawhittaker-doe.com/gallery/
Becky Yazdan Http://beckyyazdan.com
—
Peter Konsterlie
Gallery Director
University of Bridgeport, Arnold Bernhard Center
84 Iranistan Avenue, Bridgeport CT. 06604
Artist website: http://www.konsterlie.com
Gallery website: http://www.schelfhaudtgallery.com/reality-of-abstraction/
https://1drv.ms/f/s!AvAeiMujTwNJg7hQRlImSLoLhSB6Ig
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShelfhaudtGallery/?ref=bookmarks
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