Gallery 222 exhibit opens

Posted by Victoria Rose on November 14, 2021

"S'mores" by Randall Graham

There is a distinctly light and positive energy bubbling away at Gallery 222 in Malvern. A lot of that energy comes from owner Andrea Strang, and the rest is supplied by the current exhibit which opened November 10^th. Art by Randall Graham and Alison Leigh Menke offers bursts of color to match our stunning fall landscape.

Graham is a mainstay of the Chester County art scene, painting landscapes that seem both familiar and otherworldly. He takes inspiration for some of his artwork from his frequent participation in Plein Air Brandywine Valley and other plein air painting events. Five pieces of his “En Rain Air” series are part of the current exhibit. These paintings look like landscapes viewed from behind a rain-filled window. Observers are invited to look beyond the textured surface to the vivid scenes beyond.

Other more traditional pieces capture perfect moments. “S’mores” is a large oil painting of young children silhouetted against a campfire complete with fireflies and a curious dog. “This brings out such emotion,” says Strang, looking at the piece. When pressed to pick her favorites of the exhibit, she looks to the right where four summery scenes hang. “On a Walk,” “Swell,” “Rental,” and “Off Season” show beach umbrellas in sand in different vignettes. “They are just a little nugget of sunshine,” Strang muses. “But make sure you write down that it was difficult to choose!”

Strang wavered among a few of Menke’s paintings, but seemed drawn back to “Snow Day,” a large bright oil painting. It catches the eye even from a room away. “It is almost more powerful when you are not looking directly at it,” she says. “I just feel like it is so dramatic.” Menke’s thick brushstrokes and heavy layers of paint build gorgeous vistas that make the viewer move around the room to take in paintings from multiple angles.

A reception held on November 10^th at Gallery 222 was well attended and guests seemed ready to get into the holiday shopping spirit. Many pieces by both artists have already been sold. Strang maintains a cottage in a beautiful garden behind the studio full of more artwork ready to show visitors. “Between last month and this month, it feels like we are getting back,” Strang notes. “There was a more relaxed feeling at this reception, with people coming out again.”

Gallery 222 rotates exhibits and art frequently. Both new and returning artists are featured in shows and also in corners throughout the space. Graham introduced Menke’s art to Gallery 222 and Strang a few years ago. “Randall presented her work to me and I just loved it. We first showed art by Alison at an exhibit in 2019, and now this is the second exhibit of her work.” It seems that local art lovers would be happy for it not to be the last.

Strang has been excited to be part of the growing art scene in Malvern and the long tradition of art exhibition of Chester County. “We just celebrated our fifth year, and it has been such a positive experience to get to know the artists and their work. And from the community, I hear thanks for being here in Malvern.” Throughout the pandemic, Strang has worked with artists to help showcase their art and bring them to the public, including through online exhibits and shopping. It has allowed Gallery 222 to keep supporting the arts in Chester County and keep in touch with guests, even virtually.

"I Can See Clearly Now" by Randall Graham

The current exhibit is open until November 27^th, and there is something for everyone. It is a great chance to look for a new art acquisition or for those who want to enjoy a relaxing gallery experience. Keep an eye out for the small pieces scattered throughout the rooms. It might be easy to miss “Yoda Lemon,” but Star Wars fans of all ages will delight in the surprising image to be found in the shadows. Other easter eggs as well as adorable gifts and fun artistic juxtapositions can be found in every corner.

Gallery 222 has upcoming exhibits which will feature local artists and pieces perfectly priced for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. They also offer online shopping for those who prefer to browse from the comfort of their own home.

Gallery 222 is located at 222 East King Street, Malvern, PA. More information including updated safety and visiting protocols are available at gallery222malvern.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.