Our current exhibit, Art and the Animal, the 63rd annual exhibition of the Society of Animal Artists (SAA) was the perfect exhibit to have in the gallery during the Painting a Landscape that Glows workshop taught by Laurie Albin. So many of the lovely paintings on view in this exhibition are perfect examples of how depth and glow breathe life into art. Instructor Laurie Ablin took full advantage by bringing her class into the gallery to study the work of these professional artists.
Successfully inspired and skillfully instructed, the workshop students return to their palettes to put brush to paper. Watercolor is a tricky medium. The artist must find a balance between freedom and control. The fluidity of the paint is part of what makes watercolor special, but it is also this fluidity that can make the artist feel they are not in control. Expertly, Laurie guided participants in techniques to maximize the fluidity without losing control. Examples of the lovely artwork produced during this two-day workshop can be found on the Hansen Museum’s Facebook page.
We say it every exhibit, but at the risk of being accused of crying wolf, Art and the Animal is a MUST-SEE exhibit. The paintings in this exhibit are incredible! The skill and talent in this exhibit are perhaps unmatched to-date. The painting styles range from hyperrealist to representational with a couple of pieces that straddle categories. The sculpture and carvings are lovely as well, but the paintings steal the show. Artists will appreciate genius and the aesthetes will revel in the bounty for their eyes.
Stylish boot totes made by artist David Henricks are on view in the Artist of the Month area during the month of March. Creatively repurposing discarded cowboy boots, David has turned these cast offs into cute totes. On view and available for purchase are a wide variety of colors and styles—each perfectly accessorized with a strap and embellishments. Unique and fun, these totes make the cutest packaging for gifts. Upcoming opportunities at the Hansen Museum include the Vollbracht Oil Painting Workshop on March 22nd and 23rd, Joy of Painting Class on April 13th & 14th, and Encaustic (Wax Painting) Class on May 22nd. There is always something happening at the Hansen Museum. Keep up to date with Museum happenings by following the Museum Facebook page.