ART vs. FASCISM

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda "Anticipation" 

Art vs. Fascism

Fascism: A political philosophy, movement, or regime that praises nation and often race above the individual… that stands for an autocratic government headed by a dictator, with severe economic and social restrictions, and forcible suppression on all the oppose.

Please join the Honors Program and the Fine Arts Department of Joliet Junior College for a panel discussion featuring an prestigious group of speakers on the topic Art vs. Fascism. Our panel is comprised of:

PETE OLSON, Assistant Director of the Northern Illinois University Art Museum
PAULA KLOCZKOWSKI LUBERDA, Visual Artist
KIMBERLY LUTHEN, Art Historian
CHERYL JEFFERSON, Executive Producer of Breaking Criminal Traditions and Author of “Death of a Raks Star”

Thursday, February 8, 2018 from 4-6pm
Joliet Junior College
U Building Auditorium U-1024
1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431

Pete Olson: will be delving into the historical context to the phenomenon of Art Against Fascism by discussing the work of Honore Daumier, whose lithographs appeared in Parisian newspapers in the 19th century. He was particularly critical of two rulers with fascistic tendencies, first King Louis-Philippe (who had him jailed) and later Napoleon Bonaparte’s nephew, Napoleon III. The audience will likely find a lot of resonance with contemporary dissent even though the particulars of 19th century French culture may be unfamiliar to them.

Fine Artist, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda will discuss corporate fascism as seen through the arts. Luberda will present a visual journey that includes some contemporary references as well as her own personal creations.

Kimberly Luthen will talk about the artistic response to modern Fascism—listing the behaviors that hallmark Fascist behavior while taking a look at Degenerate art juxtaposed against artistic satire.

Cheryl Jefferson, Writer and Executive Producer of “The Art of Influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions” will present on the related topic "From Creation to Impact." Jefferson will define how the arts are key in the fight against fascism. She will discuss what to do once you’ve completed that brilliant painting, sculpture, novel, script, composition or choreography—to assist your work in achieving the goal of reaching the ideal audience for political impact.

Admission is Free

Breaking Criminal Traditions ~ Additional Programming: Friday, February 27 at 7pm

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Overwhelme, Stoneware, 6 x 6 x 6.5" 

Please join us on Friday, February 27 at 7pm, for evening of Free Programming in conjunction with the fine art exhibition, Breaking Criminal Traditions on view at The Schoenherr Gallery of North Central College

The evening will include a Dance Performance Piece by Jasmin Jahal, followed by a Panel Discussion lead by Breaking Criminal Traditions Executive Producer, Cheryl Jefferson, and a screening of the documentary "Honor Diaries". The event should conclude at 9pm.

The Madden Theatre is located in the same building as the Schoenherr Gallery of North Central College… 171 E. Chicago Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540. We look forward to seeing you!

Additional Information:
The art of influence... Breaking Criminal Traditions is an exhibition created to raise awareness of global criminal traditions. Criminal traditions are ancient, ongoing rituals that kill or maim millions each year—yet they are rarely considered crimes. In creating awareness and beginning a dialogue, the intention is to promote change from within each affected culture.

Debuting in 2013 at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, variations of the exhibit have been presented at: The Beverly Art Center, The Art Center-Highland Park and the Schoenherr Gallery of North Central College. Each new venue presents a unique body of work—incorporating select pieces from prior exhibitions, as well as new works. All of the pieces are selected to allude to the issues without being overtly obvious. The content of the exhibition addresses the harsh reality of the world in which we live—and the intense beauty of empowerment and freedom. Additional information can be found at BreakingCriminalTraditions.com
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Installed: The Art of Influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions at The Art Center of Highland Park

 

 Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Bound, Cement 30”h x 6”w x 6.5”d and 

Richard Laurent La Fleur Charcoal and Pencil on Paper 20” x 20”

Opening Friday, November 7th at The Art Center of Highland Park is, The Art of Influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions. This fine art exhibition, features the work of sixteen artists from around the country, calling attention to the ongoing ancient rituals that kill or maim millions each year—yet are not considered crimes. The exhibition utilizes the beauty of high-quality fine art to raise awareness of human rights issues and—in doing so—begins a dialogue that may encourage change.

This provocative yet engaging exhibition debuted in 2013 at the IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, putting the shadowy topics of honor killing, child marriage, acid violence—among others—directly in front of current and future law makers. Since the show debuted, new fine art pieces have been added. The show has evolved into the unique presentation designed specifically for The Art Center of Highland Park.

The exhibition features some fifty pieces of fine art, in a variety of mediums. I've selected pieces that are intriguing—with many levels of interpretation. Being conscious of the human rights issues outlined by Executive Producer, Cheryl Jefferson, I chose beautifully intriguing works of art that contain multiple levels of meaning—the meaning ultimately defined by the interpretation of the viewer.

The exhibition includes works of art by: Corinna Button (Chicago, IL), James Deeb (Evanston, IL), Sheila Ganch (Chicago, IL), Claire Girodie (Baltimore, MD), Sergio Gomez (Chicago, IL), Andrea Harris (Chicago, IL), Paula Kloczkowski Luberda (Naperville, IL), Richard Laurent (Chicago, IL), Kathy Liao (Seattle, WA), Chandrika Marlo (Northbrook, IL),  Zoriah Miller (New York, NY, Paris, France), Nancy Rosen (Chicago, IL), Lorraine Sack (Indianapolis, IN), Valerie Schiff (Chicago, IL), Barbara Simcoe (Omaha, NE), and Anne Smith Stephan (Wilmette, IL)

The Art of Influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions will be on display through January 3. A public Opening Reception will take place on Friday, November 7 from 6:30-9pm. The Art Center of Highland Park is located at 1957 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, IL 60035. The gallery is open Monday–Saturday 9am-4:30pm. Most of the pieces included in the exhibition are available for purchase. Additional information can be found at BreakingCriminalTraditions.com.
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Breaking Criminal Traditions ~ Installed

"Venus", a bronze sculpture by Valerie Schiff, welcomes patrons to
The Art of Influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions

The Art of Influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions was installed this past weekend. The exhibition—including both two-and-three dimensional works—opened yesterday for preview. The public Opening Reception will be held on Thursday, October 10th from 5:15-8:15. The exhibition is presented in the 3rd floor gallery of IIT Chicago - Kent College of Law, located at 565 West Adams Street, in Chicago.

Already receiving enthusiastic reviews, "Breaking Criminal Traditions" was compiled to raise awareness of global criminal traditions... traditions that continue today. The pieces included, were selected to elude to the issues without being overtly obvious. The content of the show walks a blurred line between the horrifying reality of the world in which we live—and the intense beauty of empowerment and freedom.

Patrons who explored the show during previews, defined the work as inspirational and empowering. One viewer was even moved to tears.

Left: Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, "Connected", Stoneware, 12" diameter

Right: Zoriah Miller, "The Weapons Cache, Archival Photograph 1/8, 24 x 24"

The exhibiting artists are: James Deeb (Evanston, IL), Sheila Ganch (Chicago, IL), Andrea Harris (Chicago, IL), Paula Kloczkowski Luberda (Naperville, IL), Richard Laurent (Chicago, IL), Zoriah Miller (New York, NY, Paris, France), Nancy Rosen (Chicago, IL), Lorraine Sack (Indianapolis, IN), Valerie Schiff (Chicago, IL), Barbara Simcoe (Omaha, NE), and Anne Smith Stephan (Wilmette, IL)

The Art of influence: Breaking Criminal Traditions will be on display through February 3. A public Opening Reception will take place on Thursday, October10 from 5:15-8:15pm. The gallery is located on the 3rd floor of the IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, located at 565 West Adams Street in Chicago [the corner of Adams and Jefferson]. Street Parking is abundant and there are a number of lots within a single block.

The gallery is open Monday-Thursday 7:30am-11pm, Friday 7:30am-9:30pm, and Saturday 8:30am- 6pm. Most of the pieces included in the exhibition are available for purchase. Additional information can be found at BreakingCriminalTraditions.com.


Valerie Schiff has studied with a variety of talented teachers including: Lynn Borst, Alan Gavin, Richard Halsted, and Gay Riseborough. Seeking to learn more about human anatomy, Valerie was fortunate to study with Sheila Oettinger. Working with Oettinger helped her to work larger and to subtly infuse power and emotion into her sculpture. Schiff’s accolades include numerous awards including multiple "Best in Show" prizes.

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda is an established and widely exhibited artist. Her work has been presented in regional, national and international exhibitions for more than two decades. Her extensive award list includes: A Purchase Award from The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, A Merit Award from Salisbury State University; Best of Show from Nicolet College, Wisconsin; 3rd Place Indiana University; Merit Award Quincy Art Center; Honorable Mention from Rockford Art Museum, and an Award of Excellence from the Norris Cultural Center of St. Charles. Paula Kloczkowski Luberda—and her work—has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun Times and the Daily Herald News Paper, as well as other print media. Her work was also featured on NBC Channel 5 news. Luberda’s education includes a BA in Studio Art, an Associate’s degree in Design and Illustration, specialized instruction in ceramic sculpture from the Art Institute of Chicago, fiber sculpture from Concordia University, Montreal Canada, Mold making from San Antonio Institute of Art, San Antonio, Texas, and Patination at Cleveland University, Cleveland Ohio.

Zoriah Miller is a world renowned photojournalist known for his prolific work documenting conflict, crisis and disasters. His award winning photography has appeared in major motion pictures, on television, book covers and in publications such as The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, Elle, The Wall Street Journal, Cosmopolitan and countless others. His work is exhibited around the world and permanently archived in the United States Library of Congress.

Selections from the Collection ~ Gallery 180

Julia DelNagro Oehmke, "Back View" oil, 24"x18"

This past weekend, I installed my final exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. The exhibition consists of work that has been shown and collected by the school, over the past decade. Fifteen pieces, make up the exhibition that tends to focus more on thought-provoking perception than literal subject. This is evident even within the figurative imagery included in the exhibition.

There are six pieces in the exhibition that use the figure as subject—some more obviously than others—but each conveys a message beyond the obvious.

Shown above, “Back View” by Julia DelNagro Oehmke, presents a beautifully painted semi-nude figure, abstracted through style and composition. The form is revealed through harsh lighting with deep shadows exaggerating a restricted pose that conceals the extremities. The tightly confined torso mimics the tension found in the subtle ripple of flesh in the lower back, the draped fabric grasping at the hips, and the tightly pulled hair. The image defines restriction and confinement… It’s not simply a painting of a beautiful woman.

Two photographs by Maggie Meiners are included in the exhibition. The figurative piece of the two—“Joe”—was acquired during the national juried exhibition titled “Photo 11”. The image presents the portrait of a shy—and heavily jeweled, bearded man—exposing only a collection of rings and a quiet smile. The repetition of the subject’s fingers, comprise a complex pattern of horizontal lines, interrupted by an occasional trinket of metal, a highlight on skin or an unusually bright fingernail. The photograph—a portrait—is something more than just a portrait. It’s a composition defined by line, form, contrast, and repetition.

Maggie Meiners, "Joe", Silver Gelatine Print

“Family Circles”, an oil painting by Janet Doroba, features flat roughly modulated shapes of color to define the human form. The blurred, faceless figures—mostly turned away from the viewer—create an image reminiscent of a distant memory or dream. The vague depictions offer an opportunity for the viewer to explore personal relationships as well as the relationships of color combinations. The complementary color palette utilizes orange and blue to intensify the perceived color of each… perhaps referencing the intensity of family relationships.

Janet Doroba, "Family Circles" oil, 28"x22"

“From the Top Looking Down” by painter/sculptor/conceptual artist, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda is one of the larger pieces in the exhibition. The 48”-square, mixed media on wood image defines success …or perhaps failure. As in corporate America today, humanity is minimized. Each figure stands—or peeks over—the edge to evaluate their own success, unaware of the figures above and behind. The viewer seems to have the ultimate view.

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, "From the Top Looking Down" mixed media on wood, 48"x48"

Michael Jankowski has two pieces in this exhibition that abstractly utilize the human form. With an aggressive drawing style displayed in “Letting Go”, Jankowski forcefully applies charcoal to paper and then gently erases into the surface to revile the likeness to the human form. The aggressive marks—seemingly referring to the chaos of life—are contrasted by a ghostly representation of skeletal remains. The image seems to represent the release of anxiety after leaving the physical form.

Jankowski’s second piece from the collection is titled “Untitled: He’s Number 8”. With a lighter, more delicate touch, this image subtly emerges from the page to invite the viewer into an environment of treasures. Diagonal lines mimic the aggressive marks of “Letting Go” but this quieter technique is less startling. With the implication of a figure buried within layers of random objects, Jankowski seems to be referencing the multitude of “things” that we collect and use to identify our selves. The quiet elegance seems to have a darker message… perhaps it’s an observation of the objects cluttering our personal environments. 

Michael Jankowski, "Letting Go", charcoal on paper, 1997, 25.25"x19.25"

Michael Jankowski, "Untitled: He's Number 8", charcoal on paper, 2000, 24"x18" 

All of the pieces in this exhibition have many layers of content. The images may be enjoyed for their obvious beauty but if you look a little further, deeper meanings will emerge.

The exhibition includes the work of: Janet Doroba, Gary Gordon, Jennifer Jackson, Michael Jankowski, Joe Killiea, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Roland Kulla, Diane Kunzler, Ginny Mangrum, Maggie Meiners, Julia DelNagro Oehmke, and RK Williams. I will be writing about other presented work in the coming weeks.

The “Selections from the Collection” exhibition will continue through July 8th. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash—at the corner of Lake and Wabash—in Chicago’s Loop. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 8am-8pm, Friday 8am-5:30pm and Saturday 9am-5pm.
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Paula Kloczkowski Luberda and Michael Van Zeyl ~ Gallery 180

Tomorrow night from 5:30 - 7:30, Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will host the opening reception for the work of Paula Kloczkowski Luberda and Michael Van Zeyl. The exhibition presents Kloczkowski Luberda's abstract stoneware vessels with the classic figure and still life paintings of Van Zeyl.

The Opening Reception will take place on Friday, March 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm... with all work available for purchase. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash—at the corner of Lake and Wabash—in Chicago’s Loop. Validated parking is available at the Self Park on the corner of Wabash and Randolph for $14. Enter 1/2 block south of the gallery on Wabash. Ask for a validation ticket when entering the gallery.

The gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 8am-8pm, Friday 8am-5:30pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. Additional information can be found at gallery180.com.

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda ~ Coming in March to Gallery 180

“Ovate”, 8”w x 7”h x 11”d, Stoneware, 2012 

Save the Date: Friday, March 15

The abstract stoneware vessels of Chicago artist, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda will be on exhibit at Gallery 180 beginning on March 4th. Accompanied by the still life and figure paintings of Michael Van Zeyl, Kloczkowski Luberda's conceptual structures make reference to nature as well as the human form.

Having worked figuratively for a number of years, Kloczkowski Luberda has been exploring a new voice of expression. Her recently-created objects continue to reference humanity—or the lack of humanity—politics, and the flaws of Corporate America, but this new direction is not only concept. The work addresses the material source as concept itself—exposing and embracing the subtle flaws of the medium. Not mass-produced by machine, the subtle imperfections refer to our own humanity. The artist explains:

“Conceptually, these abstract vessels reveal the challenges facing humanity while expressing strength, endurance, power and a level of vulnerability.”

“Secret Void”, 8”w x 12.75”h, x 7.25”d, Stoneware, 2012

The work of Paula Kloczkowski Luberda will be presented at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago through May 2, 2013. Previews begin on March 4th. An Opening Reception will take place on Friday, March 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm. All works are available for purchase. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash—at the corner of Lake and Wabash—in Chicago’s Loop. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 8am-8pm, Friday 8am-5:30pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. Additional information can be found at gallery180.com.

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda is an established and widely exhibited artist for the past twenty plus years. Her work has been shown internationally at the Ceramics Biennale in Gautang, South Africa, and nationally at Orange County Center for Contemporary Art, Santa Ana, California; Center for Emerging Art, Miami, Florida; George A. Spiva Center for the Arts Joplin Missouri; Texas Artists Museum, Port Arthur Texas and Salisbury State University, Salisbury Massachusetts to highlight a few. Regionally her work was shown at the Rockford Art Museum, the Evansville Art Museum, Indiana, Indiana University, the University of Wisconsin, North Central College, Illinois Institute of Art, Highland Park Art Center and Harper College Palatine, are among her many exhibitions. She has been represented by 4 Chicago area galleries during the past 15 years and exhibited at numerous other venues such as the annual SOFA Show at Navy Pier, the Illinois Institute of Art, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Borders Book Store, and AT&T Corporate offices. 

Along with her extensive exhibition history she has won numerous awards like the Illinois Institute of Art Purchase Award and a First Place Award. Other awards included a Merit Award from Salisbury State University; Best of Show, Nicolet College, Wisconsin; 3rd Place Indiana University; Merit Award Quincy Art Center; Honorable Mention, Rockford Art Museum, and an Award of Excellence from the Norris Cultural Center in St. Charles, IL.

In Addition to her professional work she has also engaged in lectures and public speaking on her work and methods as well as art in general. This included an invitation as guest artist lecturer at Roosevelt University, Chicago, an exhibiting artist lecture at Harper College, Palatine, and Borders Book Store on Michigan Ave., Chicago and invited speaker at various art organizations. She and her work have been featured in the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun Times and the Daily Herald as well as other print media. Her work was also featured on NBC Channel 5 news.

Ms. Luberda’s education includes a BA in Studio Art, an Associate’s degree in Design and Illustration, specialized instruction in ceramic sculpture from the Art Institute of Chicago, fiber sculpture Concordia University, Montreal Canada, Mold making San Antonio Institute of Art, San Antonio, Texas, Patination at Cleveland University, Cleveland Ohio. 

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Paula Kloczkowski Luberda ~ The Art of Human Rights

Above: "Connected", stoneware, 12" diameter
Christy Tyler Photograph

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda was just one of the 23 Artists presenting work at The Art of Human Rights" event. The amazing collection of work was presented at the 2,500 square foot, Coalition Gallery in the west Loop on March 9th, 10th and 11th. The event raised more than $85,000.

Presenting both paintings and stoneware sculpture, Kloczkowski Luberda's work focuses its content on humanity. She explains...

Connected. “United, joined, or linked.” I seek to create connections in my work through color, pattern, concepts, and materials. I strive to create a bond between the viewer and the paintings or sculpture… to unite them into a common understanding of our humanity. It is important for us to see, visually and spiritually, what the human race has in common and how we connect.

These artworks reflect the ties between others and ourselves. We are a part of a global society. These pieces invite the observer to contemplate moments and events. My choice of abstract human forms is intentional in order for the viewer to see the similarity of mankind and not get caught in reflecting or comparing various segments of society, but instead see it in its entirety.

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda

Christy Tyler Photograph

Additional images from The Art of Human Rights event, as well as information about the work that Heartland Alliance does, can be found at: artofhumanrights.com

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda is an established artist who has been widely exhibited for more than two decades. Her work has been shown internationally at the Ceramics Biennale in Gautang, South Africa, and nationally at Orange County Center for Contemporary Art, Santa Ana, California; Center for Emerging Art, Miami, Florida; George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, Joplin, Missouri; Texas Artists Museum, Port Arthur Texas, and Salisbury State University, Salisbury, Massachusetts to highlight a few. Regionally her work was shown at the Rockford Art Museum, the Evansville Art Museum, Indiana, Indiana University, the University of Wisconsin, North Central College, The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, Highland Park Art Center, and Harper College.
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"Ripple..." comes to a close

A few weeks back, I was contacted by Philip Hartigan, artist and faculty member at Columbia College in Chicago. Hartigan—born in the UK and now living in Chicago—asked me if I would consider meeting to conduct an interview related to my work and the three-person exhibition currently on view at The Art Center in Highland Park. Well... the interview was posted this morning on Hartigan's blog and it's worth a read.

As a reminder, "Ripple ~ Cause and Effect" at The Art Center in Highland Park will close on July 22nd. The exhibition—and the exhibition space— is wonderful. The three-person show includes sculpture by Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, and paintings by Yelena Klairmont and myself. The work flows together seamlessly. If you're in the area, take a quick trip to the Center... it will be worth the visit.

Visual Narrative ~ Paula Kloczkowski Luberda

Visual Narrative is currently on display at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. The show includes a wonderful cement figurative sculpture by—one of my favorite artists—Paula Kloczkowski Luberda. The work—personally inspirational—depicts an interaction of a man and woman interpreted with pure body language. Kloczkowski Luberda's statement from the exhibition catalog reads:"

Connected, united, joined, or linked. As an Artist, I seek to create work with concepts strongly rooted in my exploration and observation of humanity. I manipulate the colors, textures and patterns of the materials used to convey my intentions. I strive to create a bond between the viewer and the work... to approach the viewer with a dialogue addressing society or humanity as a whole. It is important for us to understand what we have in common and how we connect..."

She goes on to explain the included piece...

"He/She presents a physical, psychological, and philosophical interaction between two figures. This reflection of humanity induces the observer to explore their personal relationships, moments of interaction and how both are perceived."

The Visual Narrative exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago continues through July 22nd and it is worth seeing. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash in Chicago's Loop. If you are unable to make it to Chicago, you can review the exhibition online at gallery180.com

As a side note, I will be exhibiting with Paula Kloczkowski Luberda and Yelena Klairmont at The Art Center in Highland Park. That show—titled "Ripple ~ cause and effect", opening July 2nd—will include some of Kloczkowski Luberda's rock formation work.

Image: Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, He/She, 2001, cement, 31 x 9 x 3" and 30.5 x 8 x 3"

Ripple – Cause and Effect ...opening July 2nd

The Art Center—located in downtown Highland Park— is the venue for a three-person exhibition titled "Ripple~cause and effect" which will be opening on July 2nd. The exhibition is a powerfully inspirational collection of painting and sculpture, which presents imagery focused on the meditative surface patterns found within nature. The works of Yelena Klairmont, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, and myself have been compiled to create this peacefully compelling exhibition.


The oil paintings of Yelena Klairmont are the most literal of the group. Klairmont captures the result of a compromised pool of water—portraying the ripple effect as a beautiful thought-provoking moment in time.


Paula Kloczkowski Luberda creates powerful stoneware rock forms with intriguing surface features. The wonderfully glaze-washed forms are manipulated and organized to create intriguing compositions in space.


Influenced—for almost two decades—by the hundreds of the pre-historic stone circles throughout Great Britain, I use the surface patterns of the Megaliths to create meditative imagery...

Britain is littered with more then four hundred and thirty of these prehistoric sites—most people are familiar with Stonehenge— yet there are areas concentrated with megalithic structures as far to the north as the Scottish Islands, and as far to the south and west as Cornwall. The largest complex of circles is just to the north of Stonehenge, at Avebury. My work is influenced by the meditative qualities of the fluid surface patterns found at some of these monuments. I have taken some artistic liberties, in the replication, manipulation and abstraction of the surface patterns found on these massive stone slabs, yet the work continues to convey the serene qualities regularly associated with nature and inner peace. The pieces included in this exhibition are representative of some of the fluid markings found within the rock surfaces. The process of creating each piece is as centering as the imagery itself.

“Ripple – Cause and Effect” will be presented at The Art Center of Highland Park from July 2 through the 22th. An Opening Reception will be held on July 2 beginning at 6:30pm. The Art Center in Highland Park is located at 1957 Sheridan Road. For additional information, contact The Art Center at 847.432.1888. I hope that you have an opportunity to experience this amazing collection of work.

Images, top to bottom:
Yelena Klairmont, "Ripple #7" oil on canvas, 40 x 30"
Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, "Three Goddesses" ceramic, 40 x 36 x 12”
Charles Gniech, "Meditation II" acrylic on canvas, 48 x 36"

The Art of Human Rights Preview Exhibition...

It always seems to amaze me how quickly time rushes by. Seems like I just installed the Jankowski exhibition and now it’s over.

I spent most of today installing the Preview Exhibition for “The Art of Human Rights”. The Human Rights show is a benefit for Heartland Alliance. As you probably know, Heartland has a variety of medical programs and services helping people with HIV/AIDS. It’s a good organization. I’ve been working with the Junior Board for the past three years to give the community at large an opportunity to view and purchase just some of the pieces donated by Artists from around the country. Only a small fraction of the donated work gets selected for the Preview Exhibition at Gallery 180. This year, the list includes work by:

Caroline Anderson, Nanette Loeff Allen, Susan Berg, Audry Cramblit, Jim Dee, James Deeb, Liesel Fisher, Michael Jankowski, Darren Jones, Annie Onlin Law, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Catherrine Maize, Laura Matzen, Jackie Melissas, Rebecca Moy, Nancy Pirri, Ted Preuss, Amy Robinson, Nancy Rosen, Lorraine Sack, Melissa Sauder, and Jacalin Subrinsky.

There are many other wonderful works which couldn’t be included due to space limitations. As I reviewed the donations, I found myself repeatedly wanting to add just one more piece… but it's important to present a cohesive show. I believe that I did just that.

Generally, the Preview Exhibition projects a soothing, meditative theme which flows through the gallery. The image above shows Jacalin Subrinsky’s “Kismet” and Paula Kloczkowski Luberda’s “Walking Man”. “Kismet”—in short, fate or destiny—seems to present a positive journey with flowing soft blue and rich brown lines of mixed media. The peaceful winding strokes of intricate color, maneuvers the viewer around the canvas in an exploration of earth and sky. It is the perfect painting to accompany Kloczkowski Luberda’s “Walking Man”. The figure—created from found wood, and woven wire—seems to be a on a primitive journey of his own. The long-legged body projects confidence in his stride and the flowing lines of his extremities mimic the shapes within Subrinsky's work.

Probably the most controversial piece in the show comes from another Chicago-area Sculptor… Nancy Pirri. Pirri offers “Sometimes I Feel Like a Fallen Angel”, an abstract ceramic sculpture of a female torso presented with three feathers. A dagger-like barb has been thrust into the figure’s back [note the shadow] and holds a small thin ceramic fragment in place—like a piece of paper to a bulletin board. The fallen angel seems to have become a victim. The use of the feathers makes reference to native Indian symbolism of ascension and spiritual evolution to a higher plane. Is it a peaceful transition after a brutal end? In any case, the piece is quite amazing.


If you’re in Chicago, stop by Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago and check out the exhibition. Take your time... there are many wonderful pieces. All of the work is available for purchase and all proceeds with go directly to Heartland Alliance. Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago is located at 180 N. Wabash—at the corner of Lake and Wabash—in Chicago’s loop.

Paula Kloczkowski Luberda's "Walking Man"

As I’ve mentioned in a recent post, Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will host this year’s “The Art of Human Rights” preview exhibition to benefit Heartland Alliance. The proceeds from this—and the main event—will help Heartland Alliance's HIV/AIDS programs and services, which include: primary care, referrals, assistance with transportation and lab costs, housing, alternative therapies such as chiropractic treatment and massage therapy, HIV prevention education, and oral health care.

The preview exhibition, which will open at Gallery 180 with a reception on January 22nd, is a collection of some of the pieces that have been donated by Artists from around the country to support Heartland Alliance in their effort. One of the contributing area artists is Paula Kloczkowski Luberda. I first met this highly creative concept-driven artist when she was being represented by Kavi Gupta’s Vedanta Gallery in the mid 90’s. Since then, I’ve watched her explore a variety of ideas with a range of media... all seeming to focus on the human condition. Her work has been presented around the country in numerous group and solo exhibitions, and two of her paintings have been acquired for the permanent collection of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago.


The above image is a sculptural piece by Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, titled “walking Man” [2005]. The sculpture—reminiscent of Giacometti’s “Man crossing a square on a sunny morning” [1948-9]—has been donated by Kloczkowski Luberda and selected for inclusion in the benefit Preview Exhibition at Gallery 180. The piece is composed of found wood and wire—and if memory serves me—stands about 36” tall. For information on other available works by Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, contact her at plk2531n@wideopenwest.com

To view some of the other pieces which will be available at the main event, check out this Flickr link. Take a look... there are some wonderful pieces.

As a reminder, save the dates for both events: Opening Reception for the Preview Exhibition: Friday January 22nd - Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago 5:30-7:30 ...and The Main Event, The Art of Human Rights: February 19th. More information to come!