Inspired by women

Posted by Victoria Rose on November 3, 2021

Portrait of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Merrill Weber

A new exhibition at the Chester County Art Association wants to inspire new generations by showcasing paintings of glass-shattering icons past and present. Inspirational Women, a solo exhibition from local artist Merrill Weber, will feature more than fifty oil paintings of women who have made positive impacts on the world. The Exhibit at Chester County Art Association by Merrill Weber Opens November 11^th

The women featured in the vibrant paintings come from diverse backgrounds, times, and locations. Each painting is accompanied by a brief biography of the subject giving visitors a sense of the woman’s life and impact on society. Weber wanted to include more than just the women’s outward appearance: “The viewer will also learn little-known tidbits, such as that Rosa Parks was a seamstress and that Cher donated money to support pandemic relief efforts.”

Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Merrill Weber

Seeing all these trailblazers in one space can lead to moments of surprising connection, such as the radiant crowns of Queen Elizabeth II and Marsha P. Johnson, which stretch to the top of their portraits. Each woman is painted directly facing the viewer, almost challenging in their straightforward gaze, and set against a bright background that draws the eye to the subjects.

“I read and thought about who I admire,” Weber says, talking about how she picked the subjects for the exhibit. “My first subject was a pioneer for gender equality, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The exhibition painting of RBG is thirty-six by thirty-six inches. Bigger than life. Just like Justice Ginsburg.”

Weber is clear about her mission to educate and empower through this exhibition. It is a look back at those who have worked to advance the cause of women’s rights around the world, while also commentary on how far they still have to go. Visitors of all ages will learn about the revolutionary experiences and challenges these women faced in their unique situations. From Lizzo to Dolly Parton, Malala Yousafzai to Mother Teresa, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Simone Biles, the display traverses centuries, genres, countries, cultures, and history.

Inspirational Women also includes personal touches from Weber, who as a last minute addition to the exhibition painted a portrait of her mother, Betty Ann Weber Hayes, who had recently passed away. “It wouldn't be an Inspirational Women exhibition without a portrait of my sweet mom. Better known as a storyteller, my mom was a creator, writer, composer, and teacher. She was a magic person who led others to the magic in themselves.”

The influence of her mother is felt through not just the gallery, but also in Weber’s passion and artistic history. Weber notes that, “From before I could walk, she nurtured my love of art. My mom would tint whipped cream and encourage me to paint on the walls while taking a bath.” The exhibit is a tribute in more ways than one. “I couldn't have done it without her watching over me. This exhibition is dedicated to her. I love you, Mom.”

The exhibit will run from November 11^th to November 30^th in the Huston Gallery at Chester County Art Association in West Chester, PA. An opening reception on November 11^th from 5 to 7 pm. Weber is looking forward to the event: “Everyone is invited to have a tipple and a nibble, while enjoying the exhibition. I look forward to visiting with others during the opening, as together we celebrate Inspirational Women.” Weber's website is https://www.merrillweber.com/

More information about the exhibit, including opening hours and upcoming shows, can be found at chestercountyarts.org. The Chester County Art Association 100 North Bradford Avenue, West Chester. Weber has been part of other exhibitions at the Chester County Art Association in the past and is a member artist of the organization.

Weber is a popular local artist whose work is featured in galleries, museums, and collections throughout the world. Her contemporary works have been described as playful, imaginative, and filled with energy and hope. Her studio in Spring City, Merrill Weber Art, usually open only by appointment, will be open to the public along those of with 20+ other artists as part of the 2021 Holiday Art Festival at Spring City Mill Studios, where art and gifts will be available for purchase. The event includes food, drink, free parking, and accessible access for visitors. Spring City Mill Studios is located at 20 E. Bridge Street, Spring City. More information can be found at https://www.springcitymillstudios.com/.

About Victoria Rose

Victoria Rose (she/her) is an editor, writer, avid reader, self-described geek, and fan of all things creative. Her passion for words has led to her current career as a freelance editor, and she is the owner of Flickering Words, an editing service. When not wielding a red pen (or cursor), she loves reading books of all genres, playing video, board, and word games, baking ridiculous creations to show off on the internet, or enjoying the gorgeous outdoors. She is a board member of the West Chester Film Festival and part of the Thirsty Monsters, a team of streamers from around the world who fundraise for various charities supporting LGBTQIA+ and accessibility rights. She can be found online @WordsFlickering or the Brandywine Art Guide @BrandywineArtGuide.