The Neighborhood – Tracee Matthews

Please Join us for Pat & Tracee’s Show

The week has finally arrived! This Friday, May 24th is the much-anticipated reception for Tracee Gentry-Matthews’ and Pat Matthews’ joint show: “Dynamic Color: The Freedom of Expression.” From 5:00-7:00PM, you are invited to enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres and exceptional art at our gallery. Tracee and Pat each have a resonant and unique art form. Pat, an American Impressionist has stirring landscapes, still-lifes and more recently, energetic abstracts. His body of work is ever growing. Tracee’s subject matter primarily consists of pulsating skylines and her cityscapes are vibrant snapshots into the undulating and rhythmic life and energy of a city. We are bubbling with excitement to have Tracee and Pat grace our gallery with not only their art, but also their dual presence this Friday evening.

Tracee’s Vibrant Cityscapes

Downtown Santa Fe – Tracee Matthews

Tracee considers painting to be a way of life and has been creating in some form since childhood. She became a full-time artist after a Bachelor of Science Degree and the birth of her daughter in 2000. She says, “Painting to me is a passion for life. It is deep rooted within my soul and it has been there since childhood. I love bringing a painting to life with a world full of touch, taste, smell, sight, sound and emotion by simply applying the brush to the canvas. A city skyline to me is full of all of these things.” The color and grandeur Tracee achieves in her dynamic works are an enlightening sight – and we must say, seeing them in person is that much more enthralling.

Pat’s Progressive Body of Work

Reflective Compliment – Patrick Matthews

Pat became a full-time artist after his first career as an architect. Art was always his passion, but was more of a dream than a reality until he took the leap. Inspired by the outdoors, much of Pat’s repertoire reflects the beauty and rich color he finds in nature. From aspen scenes to lily ponds, Pat’s paintings take the viewer to a fresh setting. Pat also has a large patriotic body of work. He recently painted a flag titled, “The Endless Strength of America” – the proceeds of which will go to The One Fund in Boston to benefit the victims and families of the Boston Marathon tragedy. In fact, this moving piece will be auctioned off of our gallery floor this Friday at the Dynamic Color opening. Pat’s repertoire recently expanded to abstracts and he manages to achieve the same degree of emotion in the vibrant ribbons of color in this more recent art form.

We look forward to seeing you at the opening this Friday!

 If purchasing a piece off the blog, mention that you found the piece on the blog and get a special discount!

The Endless Strength of America – Patrick Matthews

The Endless Strength of America – Patrick Matthews

Pat Matthews’ Tribute to the Victims of the Boston Marathon Tragedy – Proceeds from the auction of the painting go to The One Fund, Boston

The Power of Art

Art is expression, color, and movement; at its very core, it is evocative. It speaks every language and has the power to awake dormant emotion. Sometimes art is created out of a longing for beauty, and sometimes it arises from darkness – a lone, bright glow penetrating the cloak of night. It takes us away from the present reality; it brings us to a new thought, a renewed perspective; it offers us a fresh lens.

Painting for Hope

On September 11, 2001, our great nation was shaken by the unthinkable act of terror. In communal disbelief and glued to our television sets, we watched every gruesome detail unfold. We watched, prayed and waited for the gaping questions to be answered. Pat Matthews had been working on a landscape when he heard the news and was immediately moved to paint an American flag right over it. As the story unfolded, Pat continued to paint the bold emblem that represents our resilient nation. He then gave 100% of the proceeds from the sale of 1,000 Limited Edition signed and numbered lithograph prints to a special fund for the New York City fire fighters. The original painting titled, “American Pride” with 343 lithograph prints was given to Engine 4, Ladder Company 54, Battalion 9 Fire Station, located at 782 Eighth Avenue, New York City – the fire station that experienced terrible loss of life of their morning crew.

Strength in Color

Here at Waxlander Gallery and Sculpture Garden, we are honored to represent Pat Matthews. His spirit shines through in everything he paints. We were not surprised when Pat told us he was creating a tribute piece to honor the victims and their families of the recent Boston Marathon tragedy. Aptly named, “The Endless Strength of America,” Pat’s vibrant painting speaks of unity and tells the story of America – a land of unending strength. The multi-colored vertical ribbons provide a captivating background to our nation’s symbol of hope and allegiance: the American flag. Pat describes it as “strength in color”. We are thrilled to announce that this inspiring work will be auctioned off on our gallery floor the evening of May 24th, which is also the opening night of Pat’s show called, “Dynamic Color: The Freedom of Expression”. Pat and Waxlander are donating 100% of the proceeds to The One Fund in Boston, created to directly benefit those affected by the tragedy in the Northeast.

We warmly invite you to bid in person, and you will be in for a treat, as you’ll have the opportunity to meet Pat and see his newest body of work. If you are unable to make the trip to Canyon Road, we are accepting bids via telephone – call Bonnie, Waxlander Gallery Director at (505) 984-2202.

We look forward to seeing you on the 24th!

Saturday, May 11th | 11AM-12:30PM

Santa Fe Summer – Bernard Marks

The Passport to the Arts is quickly approaching, and with that comes the artist Quick Draw. One can peruse online photo galleries of their favorite artists any time, but it is a rare and special occasion that one can see an artist in action. We are honored to house one of the Quick Draw tents just outside our gallery door, and we are even more thrilled that Bernard Marks and Paul Cunningham will be creating live under that tent.

What Idealized Reality Will Bernard Marks Create this Saturday?

Bernard describes his work as “idealized reality”. You have the incredible opportunity to see him painting this Saturday right here on Canyon Road. Bernard lives in New Mexico and is inspired by the colors and shapes of the West. About his process he says, “I generally start each painting, whether plein air or in the studio, with a quick thumbnail sketch. Then I do a loose drawing on my support, which may be canvas, gesso board or paper. Once I start painting, I try to work very quickly and intuitively.” Bernard is sure to be working quickly this Saturday at the much-anticipated timed event.

Garden Serenata – Paul Cunningham

Embark on an Otherworldly Journey on Canyon Road with Paul Cunningham

Like Bernard, Paul Cunningham has a reverence toward the West. The many trips he took to the Southwest as a youth prompted him to create a palette of western hues, which contributes to his Contemporary Western repertoire. Paul also has a knack for the abstract, taking the viewer on an otherworldly journey. His hummingbird series is full of rich color and almost tangible motion. Who knows what he’ll be moved to create this Saturday during the Quick Draw – we can’t wait to find out.

 If purchasing a piece off the blog, mention that you found the piece on the blog and get a special discount!

Early Fog – Rick Reinert

Highly Accoladed Artist, Who Appeared on the Cover of Time Magazine, Meet Rick Reinert

Rick Reinert studied art formally in the 1970’s at Western Kentucky University. His education propelled him toward single-man shows abroad, where he exhibited grand impressionistic works. “What began as an intense desire for painting has evolved into a life-long passion,” says Reinert. Although his desire to paint never faded, Reinert took some time away from the canvas. He established two successful businesses while raising a family and became an authority on the topic of campaign finance reform, which landed him a cover story in Time Magazine.

The Artist’s Re-Awakening

During his business success, Reinert was pulled back toward his first love: painting. Remembering his passion for creating, which began when he was a child, Reinert began painting after work. His days were filled with “regular work” and painting in the evenings. After four years of this pattern, Reinert saw that his passion could actually become his career – so he took a leap. He now finds himself in front of the canvas seven days a week and says deciding to paint full-time was the best decision he ever made. Reinert is inspired by two ever-present surroundings stating, “Nature and sunlight have provided me with the ultimate reference library. Every day offers unique and exciting opportunities for the artist who follows the light.”

Afternoon Glow – Rick Reinert

A Journey Southwest

And follow the light he has. Waxlander is thrilled to welcome Reinert’s evocative works to the sunny southwest. Reinert’s ability to catch the viewer’s eye with vivid color and bold strokes of the brush, and simultaneously deliver an undercurrent of softened edges is uniquely his. “Afternoon Glow” and “Early Fog” are just a taste of the pieces that are soon to grace our walls.

Rick Reinert lives near Charleston, South Carolina, and his days are devoted to expanding his stunning repertoire. His dedication has certainly paid off, as he has been the recipient of countless accolades. He has won several “Best in Show” and “People’s Choice” titles, was the subject of a cover story for Sunshine Artist magazine, and has been featured six times in American Art Collector magazine to name just a few. Reinert’s works are hanging in private and corporate collections throughout the U.S. and abroad.

If purchasing a piece off the blog, mention that you found the piece on the blog and get a special discount!

One of the newer events to support the youth of Santa Fe is Passport to the Arts. In its sophomore year, it has already become a treasured occasion with an expanded three-day weekend itinerary of artistic delight. Supporting the students of the Santa Fe Public Schools Music Education Program, it is a treat for the eyes and ears.

While there is plenty to keep visitors engaged, we are looking forward to several events in particular:

Artist Quick Draw

Much like the name implies, the Artist Quick Draw is a timed event. Beginning at 11 AM, participants will have 90 minutes to complete an original work of art, with paintbrushes to cease their strokes promptly at 12:30. The works created will then be auctioned in the afternoon – once the paint has had a chance to dry.

Here at Waxlander Gallery we are pleased to announce that our artists Paul Cunningham and Bernard Marks will be participating. In addition, we are sponsoring two other artists, and all 4 can be seen at Quick Draw Location 3, which happens to be right outside our front door.

Student Musical Performances

As the painters, sculptors and experts in their various media put away their tools, young musicians of Santa Fe will grace us with a performance. We are proud to be hosting one of the student ensembles from the Santa Fe Public Schools Music Education Program as they sing and play for the public from 1-3 PM.

Silent Auction

Waxlander Gallery is also one of the locations where you can bid on valuable items as part of the silent auction that will take place along the road. Check back in before the close of bidding to make sure that you take home the pieces you want. Your participation will help support the Santa Fe Public Schools Music Education program.

All Along the Road

In addition to the events here at Waxlander, there are performances, receptions, auctions, painting and more all along Canyon Road. Many galleries will have special openings and artist receptions on Friday May 10th, and others will have additional ways to support the Santa Fe Public Schools Music Education Program all day Saturday. Finally, many boutiques and galleries will be open on Sunday the 12th at 11 AM so you can take your mom shopping before Mother’s Day brunch.

“Nara”

Ann Fleming spent most of her adult life making things with a very clear function. As a professional potter with a Bachelor’s degree from Portland State University and a Master’s from Lewis and Clark College, she crafted colorful functional ware for collectors across the country for more than 25 years. After a quarter century of the physically demanding work, she was considering a switch to bronze sculpture but had one hesitation.

The artist had spent so much time making functional objects—tiles, lighting and the like—that it seemed strange to be creating art for art’s sake. She soon realized that her new sculptural work did have a function: it told stories.

“Haven”

Ann lives in White Salmon, Washington, but she started her career as a sculptor and raised her son Casey in Oregon. She sculpted her first figurative piece in clay in 2004 and had her first five pieces cast in bronze two years later. In 2012, she designed a helped build a house in White Salmon, where she draws inspiration from the dramatic landscape of the Columbia River Gorge and the animals that live in the forest surrounding her.

“On the Brink”

Almost all of Ann’s sculptures tell stories of humans interacting with nature. “Nara” shelters a deer in her long cloak, a woman gently cradles two birds in “Holding Innocence” and “Perfect Balance” shows a joyful lady gulping down grapes. The women live in a utopia where all beings coexist peacefully and where guardian angels are always there to watch over them.

When Ann started sculpting, she learned that stories could possess powerful utility. Her hopeful tales spread a message of peace.

You can see more work by Ann Fleming here, and get updates on the artist on our Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest profiles.

“Nutmeg”

In Chris Deverill‘s opinion, if your art is inspired by animals it’s important live with one foot in the wild. That’s why he resides with his wife and dogs on the edge of a wildlife habitat in Tucson, Arizona.

“I am pleased to have a family of javelina visit daily, along with deer, quail, a seemingly endless parade of bunnies, lizards and chipmunks, and the occasional bobcat,” Chris says of his life in the Sonoran Desert. “One can spend many happy hours lost in their innate beauty, interesting interactions and honest personalities.” For Chris, these quiet moments of observation are so joyful that he feels helplessly compelled to immortalize them in bronze.

Chris grew up in Hawaii and lived in Alaska and Colorado for years, experiences that gave him a deep appreciation for nature. In Alaska he became an accomplished nature photographer and led a team of 15 canines in the 1982 Iditarod Sled Dog Race.

It was only later that Chris tried his hand at sculpting, though he’d always had an interest in it. “It always seemed to me that the timeless, enduring beauty of bronze touches the soul in ways that other mediums cannot,” he says.

“Stretch”

The aspiring sculptor started by searching out the best artists in the country, studying under Ed Hlavka and Joshua Spendlove in St. George, Utah and attending seminars with acclaimed sculptors like Ken Rowe, Jason Scull and Sandy Scott.

Chris quickly found that he loved the process of sculpting as much as its final products. Nowadays he’ll take a table, tools and clay into the wild and sculpt animals from life, watching as they roam around him and capturing their mannerisms in the abstracted lines of his sculptures.

In “Nutmeg”, a jackrabbit is reduced to a highly textured arc of bronze with enormous ears. “Stretch” captures the lanky stride of a mare through a pair of gracefully elongated legs. Many of Chris’ works show interactions between animals: in the whimsical sculpture “The Encounter” a little dog cranes its neck to engage in a staring contest with a gargantuan horse.

“The Encounter”

“My greatest joy is to produce work that sparks in the observer a laugh or a warmth or a recognized familiarity which beckons,” Chris says. “It is that edge or sense of emotion that I hope to impart that draws one in.”

Next time you visit Waxlander, let Chris Deverill draw you straight into his animals’ worlds. Come explore the edge of the wild.

You can learn more about Chris Deverill here, and get updates on his work through our Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest profiles.

“Abandon 8″

When Lina Vandal decided to become a painter in 1999, she swiftly left her successful career in advertising and picked up a brush. After that first leap of faith it wasn’t hard to decide what she would put on her canvases. Her subject matter was literally staring her in the face.

Employing acrylics, charcoal crayons, pigments and pastels, Lina paints human eyes, faces and figures immersed in abstract fields of texture and color. She might be relatively new to her career as a professional artist, but Lina’s myriad materials and her masterful blend of figurative and abstract genres attest to a life lived with an irrepressibly creative spirit.

Lina was born in Montreal in 1952. She attended the Montreal School of Fine Arts throughout her childhood and went to art exhibitions with her father, who was an architect. At school she experimented with many forms of expression, from drawing and painting to weaving, sculpture, dance, theatre and circus arts. Years later when she decided to become an artist, Lina enrolled at the Saydie Bronfman School of Fine Arts and studied with some of Montreal’s top contemporary artists.

“Sans Titre”

The artist approaches her canvases as she did her education: as an explorer. She uses brushes and palette knives, but isn’t afraid to pick up sponges and other tools to capture different textures. Though she’s a classically trained painter, she sometimes incorporates photographs and sketches into her work.

Lina’s ethereal figures and faces tie it all together. Some of them stare straight at the viewer, while others drift through the artist’s abstract landscapes as though propelled by the ether of dreams. The figures themselves are strikingly realistic (they’re modeled after people she knows, including her daughter) but it’s their emotional investigations of the color fields surrounding them that interest Lina. These figures are stoic explorers of ever-unfolding universes, kind of like the artist herself.

Click here to learn more about Lina and follow our Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest accounts to see her latest work. Also, stay tuned for blogs on our other new artists Chris Deverill and Ann Fleming.

“Paired Cats”

Georgia Gerber went on her first date with her husband near the end of her graduate work at the University of Washington. “That night I told him I dreamed of having my own studio and foundry in a quiet rural area where I could raise a family and create sculpture,” she says. It’s been 21 years since her dream became a reality, and now Georgia spends her days creating whimsical bronze beings with a very special casting process.

 Georgia was raised in Chester County, Pennsylvania and studied sculpture and bronze casting at Bucknell University. It was there that she and her professor William Lazansky invented a new process for producing sculpture that eliminates the need for expensive rubber molds.

 The sculptor starts by shaping a figure from water-based clay, which is then split into castable-sized pieces that are used to create negative plaster imprints. The plaster segments are then covered in wax and cast in bronze. Finally, the metal pieces are wielded together, tooled to produce a seamless bronze sculpture and coated with colorful patinas.

 As far as Georgia knows this procedure is unique to her foundry on Whidbey Island, WA, which she runs with the assistance of two women artisans and her husband. She produces all of her works there, from small bronze creatures to life-size public sculptures of people and animals.

 You can see the tender touch of the artist’s hand in the broad planes and flowing lines of her subjects’ abstracted bodies. She often groups her animals in pairs or trios, emphasizing the way their bodies curve to embrace each other. It’s hard not to reach out and touch their cool, smooth skin, something that Georgia always encourages.

“Snow Bears”

“I like my sculpture to invite an interaction with its audience,” she says. “This is often meant to be a direct physical interaction, but I always strive to engage the viewer’s imagination.” Her public art pieces, which dot the globe from Seattle to Japan, are often placed in the middle of sidewalks where passersby will feel compelled to play with them.

As for Georgia’s smaller works like the ones that populate Waxlander, encountering them is just as much of an imaginative exercise. “I tend to present an incomplete visual narrative,” Georgia explains. “A story is suggested, a feeling evoked, and the viewers find themselves providing details.” For an artist who dreamed up her own foundry, it’s the perfect task.

Come interact with Georgia Gerber’s sculptures at Waxlander Gallery & Sculpture Garden, or browse them online here. You can learn more about the sculptor on our Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest accounts.

“The Proposal”

“You could say I’ve been an artist all my life,” says Laurel Peterson Gregory. It’s true, though she might not have called herself that for a while. She was a mechanic, a master electrician and a building official before becoming a sculptor. For Laurel, one art lead to another.

 Laurel attended Humboldt State University in Northern California for Industrial Arts and worked for years in that field before taking an interest in art in 1993. She started studying classical figurative sculpture and experimenting with different mediums and styles, and by 1994 was showing her work professionally.

The sculptor’s first works were varied in medium and subject matter. She experimented with figurative bronze reliefs, raku-fired ceramic wall fountains, mixed media works in ceramic and copper, and abstract ceramic-and-steel sculptures. The common thread was their impeccable quality, a result of the skills she’d gained from her past jobs.

“Poodle Twist”

Nowadays, the artist has turned most of her focus on a rather adorable subject: animals. From her home in the foothills of Colorado’s Front Range, she sculpts abstracted bronze creatures that dance on their hind legs. Bears bump, poodles twist and bulls engage in a “Wall Street Waltz”.

“I minimalize reality, stripping away non-essentials to reach the essence of whatever it is I’m sculpting,” Laurel says. “Although my form is now highly stylized, I still rely on the fundamentals.”

Laurel’s process is classical in its devotion to the idealized figure. She approaches each piece as an engineer would, creating hundreds of photographs and sketches of the animals before casting them into dynamic motion. These creatures might be performing impossible feats, but their bodies look elegant and their dances effortless.

It’s a task that could only be accomplished by an artist of all trades.

You can see more work by Laurel Peterson Gregory here, and learn more about her on our Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest pages.