MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Drawing is an expansive art term, encompassing many styles, methods and media with one fairly consistent characteristic: drawing involves the direct hand of the artist. Objects created by the act of drawing are not necessarily limited to impressions made upon a surface. While the suggestion of the artist’s marks may be evident, it is often what is beneath the surface of the image that captivates and engages the viewer to connect with the artwork. What’s beneath can cue the viewer toward what is driving the artist to create. Perhaps it is an obsession, a line of inquiry, or even a reaction to extrinsic or intrinsic factors. What’s beneath can be layers of metaphor based on that individual artist’s personal journey. What’s beneath can draw the viewer closer into a work of art to decipher, question and respond to the artist’s intent.
The 1978 Maplewood Arts Center, 1978 Springfield Ave. in Maplewood, will host a new exhibit on “What’s Beneath” on Saturdays and Sundays, from May 1 to 29. An opening reception will be held Sunday, May 1, from 2 to 5 p.m.
Participating artists include Sybil Archibald, Denise Hardie, Yvette Lucas, Sarah Petruziello, Patricia Toltl and Cynthia Smith Weiss.
Also, on Sunday, May 22, from 2:30 to 4 p.m., Smith Weiss and Hardie will be offering a free demonstration on their techniques for incorporating mixed media with their printing to create one-of-a-kind pieces. This demonstration will show the use of image layers, collage, and watercolor.
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