There is no doubt that we live in interesting times. Perhaps a touch too interesting, depending on the day. But that does mean that stories abound for those who experience those interesting times, and those stories are being told in every format available, from movies to books, television to poems, and especially, all types of art.
The Square Pear Gallery in Kennett Square is gathering stories together in a unique show entitled Stories We Tell, featuring both new and known local artists. The variety of the stories are reflected in in the wide range of art, subjects, and mediums. “Every artist has a message to convey, so the themes are as varied as the artwork in the show,” notes Robin Sesan, one of the included artists.
Each artist provides their own perspective, whether of a moment in time or an overall feeling. Ann Guidera-Matey’s paintings offer time for contemplation: “My work is about maintaining balance in life.” She talks about feelings that many have come to understand over the past few years, saying, “Energy given to others must be balanced with the energy you give yourself. My work is a reminder to take time for yourself and experience the moment.”
Guidera-Matey’s soft landscapes certainly encourage viewers to stay for a moment and search the serene views for the hidden details. As she explains, “the color and light in my painting ‘Evening’s Blush’ invites you to pause, take a deep breath, and get lost in the sunset.” She finds peace in the quiet moments found in nature, no matter the season or time. “Glowing sunsets force me to stand still and just let go,” she says. “Fields of wildflowers are energizing. While reflections in ponds and creeks are soothing and hypnotic.” Other artists agree. Sesan, when asked about the varied pieces in the show, notes, “I am always moved by the work of Ann Guidera-Matey. Her art causes me to pause and reflect—to stand still in an otherwise too fast paced world.”
Other paintings of Guidera-Matey’s in Stories We Tell tell a different tale. “’Equilibrium’ and ’End of the Season’ are inspired by our need to constantly adjust and accept changes in life in order to maintain balance,” she explains. Sesan’s clay monotypes seek that inner strength to contend with fluctuations as well. She explains, “My work conveys a sense of depth and the importance of looking within to find answers and strength.”
Other artists look beyond the easily seen to discover what lies hidden. Patricia Walkar writes a story that informs each of her pieces. “My work makes people think about things in unexpected ways,” she says. “The paintings hold mystery, and a little bit of magic.” It is easy to lose yourself in the surrounding stories throughout the gallery. Guidera-Matey sees this as a feature of the exhibit, saying, “I like to get lost in a piece of art. I like the surprises revealed in the layers of Robin Sesan’s clay monoclay prints and I get lost in the bold colored moving petals of Donna Porter’s large close-up flowers.”
Magic abounds in the exhibition. Walkar’s vivid flowers seem to jump from their dark backgrounds. In “Night Flight” by Barbara Grant, you can feel the cool breeze and hear the sounds of the evening. “Pirouette” by Al Moretti features ballerinas that you can almost see continuing their revolutions. And you can’t miss the playful energy of Karen Weber’s animal portraits, such as the refined predator in “Tea is for Tiger.”
The message throughout the show, beyond the stories and the delicate brushstrokes, is one of finding time for oneself, even if it is brief. As Guidera-Matey puts it, “While all the stories and inspirations may differ, all the work requires you to slow down, stay in the moment.”
Stories We Tell runs through the rest of April. The gallery also has a wide range of ceramics, handmade items, and gifts for purchase. The Square Pear Gallery is located at 200 East State Street, Kennett Square, PA. More information can be found at SquarePearGallery.com. Check venue websites or call ahead for current hours, safety measures, and other information.
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.
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