"Expressions and Interpretations" at CCAA

“Expressions and Interpretations” at CCAA

Posted by Victoria Rose on February 15, 2023

Expressions and Interpretations at Chester County Art Association

Art is in the eye of the beholder—and up to their interpretation. Much meaning can be found not only within a piece of art itself, but in the context in which it is viewed, what is displayed with, the time period, and the gallery in which it is shown. The expression which perhaps was intended by the artist may change when it comes to viewer interpretation.

Monna Morton, Chester County Art Association

The new exhibition at Chester County Art Association, Expressions and Interpretations from 11 Artists of Color explores the interplay of art and audience. “The creative process is an eternal process which cannot be pinned down to time or place,” says Dane Tilghman, curator of the exhibition. The show is on view through March 1^st.

The range of ages of the artists in this show—from Amir Jones to esteemed late artist Louise Clement Hoff—brings a great deal of perspective over the generations. “Depending on the viewer and the age of the viewer, I see that it truly can impact their viewing pleasure,” says Tilghman. “The oldest artist is Tom McKinney, then Richard Watson, both of which . . . have mentored me in my profession.”

“My works have a tendency to deal with the raw essence of the everyday experiences of life itself raw from the gut,” says Don Stephens, one of the participating artists. “I am intrigued by the movement of the works and intent, for from Objective to Subjective movements and materials manipulation to energize and energize the viewing audience.”

“I really like the involvement of generations in this exhibit,” says Monna Morton, another participating artist. The wide variety of artwork brings a sense of history, of the evolution of art across decades full of change, social movements, and innovation. Bring these artists together “shows the relevance of the Arts within the Philadelphia Art arena today full of variety and energy,” notes Stephens.

The show takes over the main Allinson Gallery at CCAA, a large open space that allows viewers to take in the vivid artwork surrounding them. “I just wonder at the Vibrancy and Variety of works on display,” says Stephens, “and how the hanging crew at the Chester Art Association were able to make the salon style work, and have a one man show on top of all that—Wow.”

Terrill Johnson, Chester County Art Association

Stephens is referencing Resilient Spirit of Reflections of Hue, a solo show from artist Terrill Johnson in the Huston Gallery. “The creativity of Kevin Terrill Johnson has truly inspired me to step outside of my creative box,” says Tilghman. “The refreshing style of the rest of the artists participating is truly inspirational.”

It is exciting to see the wealth of artistry and experience on display in this pair of exhibitions. “The creative process is an eternal process which cannot be pinned down to time or place,” says Tilghman. Morton adds, “I hope visitors take away how each artists has their own expressions and styles in the work.” The interpretations—well, those will have to be found by the beholders.

Expressions and Interpretations from 11 Artists of Color and Resilient Spirit of Reflections of Hue are on view through March 1^st at the Chester County Art Association. Then in March, see what comes from unexpected recycling when The Philadelphia Dumpster Divers: Still Upcycling After All These Years and Trashy Women take over the galleries. The Chester County Art Association is located at 100 North Bradford Avenue, West Chester, PA. More information can be found at ChesterCountyArts.org.

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.