March 2010

RESPONSIBLE ART

As a writer, I appreciate and admire other art forms.  I have always wanted to paint; my only two -- one watercolor and one oil – both hang where few people ever see them.  Being a marketing publicist of sorts, I really appreciate artists who can set aside a slice of themselves to market their proud work. Among these artists, Gabriel Pons makes great art and markets it smartly.

So it was no surprise to receive Gabe’s show announcement for his Soul Providers Exhibit with Ana Rendich at Art First Gallery during March.  Their exhibition will include work that is inspired by their personal experiences and insights.

Ana Rendich works primarily in oil paints and collage. She is originally from Argentina and a survivor of the political persecutions of the 1970s. The theme of this show provides her an opportunity to present some insights into the human condition. Her works are a reflection of her own life story and experiences, including the obstacles she has overcome, channeled through her artistic expressions. Ana has been a member of Art First Gallery since 2007. Her work has been displayed throughout the United States in juried exhibitions.

Gabriel Pons is a mixed media artist who constructs paintings using multiple layers of collage material. He uses spray paint and intricate stencils to render figures and patterns in the composition - reacting and interacting with the collage material underneath. His latest series of paintings are a narrative of the people and icons that have given him inspiration throughout the years. Gabriel has been a member of Art First for over four years. He and his wife teach art to youth at their artist studio (aptly named PONSHOP) in downtown Fredericksburg.

Both artists are excited about collaborating on the exhibit and look forward to sharing their work with the public from March 3-28. Opening Reception is First Friday, March 5, from 6-9PM. Art First Gallery is at 824 Caroline Street downtown.

Also look for Gabe’s work in a collaborative effort at Brandon Newton Art Studio and Gallery, 620 Caroline Street downtown. My friend Brandon is among the most supportive working artists of other working artists. He gets the concept of the symbiotic relationship very well.

His amazing art space will also feature some work from his friend and artist Adam DeSio, whose Canned Goods is an exhibition of “Jar Art.”  On display will be nearly 80 glass containers of all shapes and sizes created and photographed by Adam. If you’re a fan of “reuse and recycle,” you will like this exhibition, which is also good, fun art.

To spoil you further, Brandon welcomes his good friend and filmmaker, Ryan Poe, who will show one of his beloved downtown films. This all happens from March 4 - March 31, with the Opening Reception on First Friday, March 5 from 5-11PM.  -- RG