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JUNE 2024

BRUSHING TRADITIONS

RITUALS OF PAINTING IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

A captivating online exhibition that explores the rich artistic tapestry of the region. Showcasing a diverse group of artists, the exhibition delves into the timeless and transformative nature of painting rituals. Within this immersive online experience, artists treat the canvas as a sacred space, merging traditional techniques with contemporary visions inspired by the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and personal experiences of Northwest Arkansas. The exhibition weaves together unique perspectives into a collective narrative, reflecting the depth and diversity of artistic expression in the area.

At its core, the exhibition celebrates the rituals defining the act of painting. Each artist presents a distinct ceremonial approach, whether through meticulous pigment layering, rhythmic brushstrokes, or a meditative connection to the canvas. These rituals act as portals, guiding both artists and online viewers into a realm where time, tradition, and personal introspection converge.

"Brushing Traditions" not only emphasizes the individual mastery of each artist but also explores the communal aspects of the creative process. Collaborative pieces and shared techniques underscore the interconnectedness of the online artistic community in Northwest Arkansas, fostering a sense of kinship and inspiration that transcends individual practices. As visitors navigate the digital gallery space, they are encouraged to immerse themselves in the sensory experience of painting rituals. The online exhibition prompts reflection on the timeless allure of this age-old practice, transcending digital boundaries and linking the artists to the broader human experience.

01.

KELLIE LEHR

02.

RUTH (RJ) LAWLOR

03.

MILAN JILKA

04.

CLAIRE PONGONIS

05.

DANI IVES

06.

KENNEDIE DANIEL

KELLIE LEHR

“My layered geometric and gestural paintings explore the ritualistic, performative aspects of painting and alternative ways of experiencing time and space through memory, present moment awareness, and imagination. References to mythology, psychology, and meditative practices are built into the work. Both forms and processes explore presence and absence, removal and addition, chance and intention.”

Check out more of Kellie Lehr's work

"Untitled"
Acrylic and Oil on Paper
9" x 12"
2020

RUTH (RJ) LAWLOR

“The force of nature and the serene surroundings of my home studio overlooking Beaver Lake in Northwest Arkansas serve as daily inspiration for my work. Through the simplicity of abstract forms, shapes and textures I seek to create impactful compositions that celebrate beauty and invite the viewer to explore ideas about the intangible and contemplative and spiritual influences of the natural world.”

Check out more of Ruth (RJ) LAWLOR work

"YUKON NO. 299"
acrylic and metallic leaf on canvas
36 x 36 inches

MILAN JILKA

“When constructing these patterned works, my aim is to explore the varied ways in which patterns can be constructed, altered, and transformed. This process is usually more open-ended than closed, and I will not know where a piece is headed until I get there. It is, nevertheless, a process that helps me develop new ways of both making and understanding how patterns can be assembled and utilized.”

Check out more of Milan Jilka work

"Garden"
acrylic on canvas
40 x 60 inches
2021

CLAIRE PONGONIS

“Claire constantly explores new methods of creating and loves to push the boundaries of her creative understanding to find something unique and magical. Her curiosity leads her to travel frequently, but she calls Fayetteville, Arkansas home.”

Check out more of Milan Jilka work

"Roark"
Thread Painting, 6-strand
embroidery floss, tulle, wood
24 x 24 inches
2022

DANI IVES

“Ives, who excelled in painting during high school but never thought of art as a career, learned about needle-felting from a zoo co-worker in 2011. The technique uses a needle with barbs on the end to repeatedly stab wool into a fabric base, pushing fibers into place.

For each piece, Ives uses dozens of shades of wool. Lighter-colored pets are particularly challenging, she says, and she might blend several shades of off-white, tan, and cream to create the fur. Her process is exacting, she says, but also forgiving. “If you put down a color you don’t like, you can pull it back up.””

Check out more of Kellie Lehr's work

"They Carry Stories on Their Wings"
Needle felted wool on linen
16 x 20 inches

KENNEDIE DANIEL

“Her practice is driven by her desire to explore and understand the world around her, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and relationships.”

Check out more of Kennedie Daniel

"Untitled"
acrylic on canvas
24 x 24 inches
2021

YOUR CURATOR

LUCAS COWAN

He has served as Director and curator of Public Art for the Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy, Director of Public Art for the Maryland State Arts Council, and Senior Curator of Exhibits for both Millennium Park and the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture. He is the founder and Chief Consultant for Arts & Culture, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in curation and arts strategy.