The Art of Human Rights at ZIA Gallery, Winnetka

Audry Cramblit, “Paris”, bronze, 7” tall, $1,400.

Save the Date: Thursday, August 30th, 5-8:30

Once again, I've compiled some of the most amazing established area artists into an exhibition to benefit Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. With the support of ZIA Gallery of Winnetka—the location of this satellite event—this group invitational exhibition offers something for everyone.

“The Art of Human Rights” exhibition includes; paintings, drawings, mixed media, photography and sculpture created by twenty-two hand-selected, established fine artists. The commissions from the work sold—priced from $450 to $18,000—will directly benefit the charity. Funds raised through The Art of Human Rights will support the work that Heartland Alliance does to ensure that everyone has a roof over their head, access to health care, the opportunity to earn income to support themselves and their families, and to be treated fairly and with justice.

With a variety of imagery and objects available—whether it is an elegant object to finish a room or a room-defining statement—this exhibition presents amazing pieces of thought-provoking Fine Art.

John Vlahakis, “Sanctum”, photograph, edition of 5, 15” x 15”, $750.

The work of photographer, John Vlahakis, captures the drama and beauty of the natural world. His brilliantly colorful floral images—which are almost abstract—explore light and define a quiet moment in time. Vlahakis points out that… “Visually I am drawn by the color and light that each living organism reflects...”

Roland Kulla, “Ben Franklin II”, acrylic on canvas, ”60 x 36”, $9,500.

Roland Kulla’s work presents hyper-realistic acrylic imagery, defining segments of various bridges. Kulla explains:

“I’ve used bridges as my primary inspiration for the last twenty years. Based in Chicago, I began my exploration with the world’s largest collection of bascule bridges. In 2006, I began to branch out to other “bridge cities” including Boston, New York City, and Pittsburgh. In 2011, I explored the bridges in Berlin, Germany. 

I select certain design elements and eliminate background context in order to emphasize form. What may appear to be a random arrangement of bolts and rivets has, on close inspection, a rigidly patterned logic. Abstracted from their surroundings, the bridges take on new aspects. Some look dangerous, others elegant. The forms are presented in “natural” bridge colors in bold contrast to the voids that they span. They float in light that plays across the surface details. I paint an idealized version of reality on a scale that allows the viewer to enter into the structure and appreciate the monumentality of the form.”

Audry Cramblit, “Paris”, bronze, 7” tall, $1,400.

Audry Cramblit is one of four incredibly talented sculptors included in the exhibition. She presents two bronze figurative sculptures… “Paris” and “The Artist”. Both of these tactile figures are adorned with the layering of contemporary designs, symbols and words, forming a complex surface of information. Through the experimentation of materials, Cramblit has developed techniques as unique and varied as her one-of-a-kind sculptures.

There are twenty-two exhibiting artists in “The Art of Human Rights” exhibition. They are: John Benedetto, Jenny Chi, Frances Cox, Audry Cramblit, Jane Fulton Alt, Sheila Ganch, Charles Gniech, Andrea Harris, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Deanna Krueger, Roland Kulla, Richard Laurent, Maggie Meiners, Rebecca Moy, Didier Nolet, Nancy Pirri, Ted Preuss, Nancy Rosen, Lorraine Sack, Jim Tansley, Michael Van Zeyl, and John Vlahakis.

This satalite exhibition of “The Art of Human Rights^®” will be presented at ZIA Gallery, located at 548 Chestnut Street, Winnetka, IL 60093, from August 26 through September 1. A catered reception will take place on Thursday, August 30 from 5-8:30. The exhibition is free and the work sold will benefit Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. The gallery is open from Monday through Saturday from 10-5. Additional information can be found at ziagallery.net or by calling 847.446.3970.

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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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The Art of Human Rights ~ The Event

Last weekend was a blur. After six months of planning, “The Art of Human Rights” had finally arrived. The three-day event began on Friday night with an Exclusive Preview Reception for the exhibiting artist’s private collectors. The main event—complete with gourmet hors d'oeuvres, live auction and live music—was held on Saturday evening and the weekend concluded with an intimate “coffee with the artists” on Sunday morning.

More than $85,000 was raised at this year’s event to benefit Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. Heartland Alliance believes that everyone deserves to have a roof over their heads, access to health care, the opportunity to earn income to support themselves and their families, and to be treated fairly and with justice.

The event included work by twenty-three artists. They were Christopher Andres, John Benedetto, Jenny Chi, Audry Cramblit, Jane Fulton Alt, Sheila Ganch, Andrea Harris, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Deanna Krueger, Roland Kulla, Richard Laurent, Maggie Meiners, Rebecca Moy, Didier Nolet, Nancy Pirri, Ted Preuss, Nancy Rosen, Valerie Schiff, Tom Torluemke, Francine Turk, Michael Van Zeyl, John Vlahakis and myself.

Audry Cramblit presents “Paris”, a 24 inch tall clay sculpture, to a group of interested patrons.


Photographs by Christy Tyler

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The Art of Human Rights ~ March 10

Francine Turk, “Francesca”, mixed media including antique French ledger, oil stick, lacquer ink and charcoal, 65” x 52”


On Saturday, March 10th from 7-10pm, Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights will present “The Art of Human Rights,” an invitational exhibition featuring silent and live auctions with wine, gourmet fare, and live music. The event, taking place in the 2,500 square foot Coalition Gallery at 217 N. Carpenter Street [west loop], presents; paintings, drawings, photography and sculpture created by twenty-four hand-selected, established fine artists. The commissions from the work sold—priced from $400 to $18,000—will directly benefit the charity. Funds raised through The Art of Human Rights will support the work that Heartland Alliance does to ensure that everyone has a roof over their head, access to health care, the opportunity to earn income to support themselves and their families, and to be treated fairly and with justice.

The exhibition—which I curated—has something for everyone. With a variety of imagery and objects available—whether it is an elegant object to finish a room, or a room-defining statement—this exhibition presents amazing pieces of thought-provoking Fine Art.

Included in this exhibition, is the work of fine art sensation, Francine Turk. Her piece [above], “Francesca”—a large scale, figurative, mixed-media work—is classic Turk. This elegant reclining female nude is created with the used of graceful contour line. Francesca redefines space and transforms the well-known subject into an exploration of emotion and passion. The work is created with a mixture of media, including antique French ledger, oil stick, lacquer ink and charcoal. Pieces from this body of work are testaments of timeless elegance.

John Vlahakis, “Monet”, photograph, edition of 5, 30” x 30”

Photographer, John Vlahakis, captures the drama and beauty of the natural world. The brilliantly colorful floral images—which are almost abstract—explore light and define a quiet moment in time. Vlahakis points out that… “Visually I am drawn by the color and light that each living organism reflects...”

Roland Kulla, “Legget II”, acrylic on canvas, 60” x 40”

Roland Kulla presents a series of hyper-realistic paintings defining segments of various bridges. Kulla explains:

“I’ve used bridges as my primary inspiration for the last twenty years. Based in Chicago, I began my exploration with the world’s largest collection of bascule bridges. In 2006, I began to branch out to other “bridge cities” including Boston, New York City, and Pittsburgh. In 2011, I explored the bridges in Berlin, Germany.

I select certain design elements and eliminate background context in order to emphasize form. What may appear to be a random arrangement of bolts and rivets has, on close inspection, a rigidly patterned logic. Abstracted from their surroundings, the bridges take on new aspects. Some look dangerous, others elegant. The forms are presented in “natural” bridge colors in bold contrast to the voids that they span. They float in light that plays across the surface details. I paint an idealized version of reality on a scale that allows the viewer to enter into the structure and appreciate the monumentality of the form.”

Audry Cramblit, “Paris”, clay / work in progress, 24” tall

Audry Cramblit is one of seven incredibly talented sculptors included in the exhibition. Cramblit presents a variety of work, two in bronze and another in clay. “Paris”, a twenty-four inch high figurative clay sculpture, is an obvious focal point in the exhibition. The tactile figure is adorned with the layering of contemporary designs, symbols and words, forming a complex surface of information. Through the experimentation of materials, Cramblit has developed techniques as unique and varied as her one-of-a-kind sculptures.

There are twenty-four exhibiting artists in “The Art of Human Rights” exhibition. They are: Christopher Andres, John Benedetto, Jenny Chi, Audry Cramblit, Jane Fulton Alt, Sheila Ganch, Charles Gniech, Andrea Harris, Vesna Jovanovic, Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Deanna Krueger, Roland Kulla, Richard Laurent, Maggie Meiners, Rebecca Moy, Didier Nolet, Nancy Pirri, Ted Preuss, Nancy Rosen, Valerie Schiff, Tom Torluemke, Francine Turk, Michael Van Zeyl, and John Vlahakis.

On Saturday, March 10th from 7-10pm, The Art of Human Rights will be presented at the Coalition Gallery, located at 217 N. Carpenter Street in Chicago. Work sold at this Fine Art exhibition will benefit Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. Tickets are $125 in advance and $150 at the door. Tickets may be purchased on line at artofhumanrights.com or by calling Michelle Marvin at 312.660.1339.
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human ~ Adrian Cox

The average snowfall in a Chicago winter is 38”. We had eight of those inches on Friday, January 20th …. the night of the opening reception of the human exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. Surprisingly, the reception was jam-packed. Artists and patrons had driven for up to five hours—over snow-covered highways—for a look at this collection. Two of the Artists from St. Louis even attended.

“human” is a national juried exhibition with the commissions from the sale of work to benefit Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. The show is comprised of work by twenty artists from around the country. Recently, I was asked if there is a common thread that ties the work together. The obvious answer is that the work relates to the human form or the human condition. But after thinking about the question for a minute another response emerged. The work—ranging from strangely grotesque to classically beautiful—seems to be about the unconscious. The images seem to reference how we perceive the human condition while we sleep. Dreams and nightmares are the common subject of the work contained in “human”.

One of the twisted—nightmarish—pieces that I was enthralled with when selecting the exhibition, was an untitled painting by Adrian Cox [above]. Cox refers to the figures presented in this recent body of work as “…horrific, violating every natural state as their borders undergo deformation… …intended to mitigate reactions of fear and disgust.” And I’m intrigued. Below is another sample from the new series. This small piece, titled "Coagulation", seems to be a highly distorted self portrait. The image makes subtle visual reference to the artist's physical appearance with clear distortions. The artist's statement talks of the disappearance of the exterior physical shell... a place where the interior and exterior of the flesh mingle... having no boundaries. You can find the artists statement in its entirety—along with this and other images from his recent body of work—at: adriancoxart.com.


The untitled piece by Adrian Cox, as well as thought-provoking work by nineteen other artists can be seen at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, through March 1st. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash [at the corner of lake and Wabash] in Chicago’s Loop. All work is available for purchase with commissions donated to Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights. The show can also be seen online at gallery180.com.
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human ~ A National Juried Exhibition to benefit Heartland Alliance

Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago presents: “human", a collection of fine art, from around the country, that explores the human form as well as the human condition. The exhibition includes a variety of painting, drawing, photography and sculpture. Commissions from the sale of work, included in this exhibition, will be donated directly to Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights which provides life changing opportunities to people around the world who are homeless, seeking safety or living in poverty.

I selected twenty artists from around the country to present their work in this exhibition. This year, the exhibiting artists are: Christopher Andres, South Bend, IN; Marisa Andropolis, Algonquin, IL; Tamie Beldue, Black Mountain, NC; E. Thurston Belmer, St. Louis, MO; John Benedetto, Winnetka, IL; Brandon Briggs, Bowling Green, OH; Adrian Cox, St. Louis, MO; Audry Cramblit, Chicago, IL; Matthew Dercole, Chicago, IL; Benjamin Fedosky, Berkeley, CA; Sheila Ganch, Chicago, IL; Vesna Jovanovic, Chicago, IL; Paula Kloczkowski Luberda, Naperville, IL; Jason Lascu, Nashville, TN; Catherine Maize, South Haven, MI; David Mazure, Milford, PA; Nichole McCormick Santiago, Williamsburg, VA; Ted Preuss, Chicago, IL; Jim Tansley, Chicago, IL; Kenju Urakubo, Jackson Heights, NY; and Jonathan Weiss, Chicago, IL

The plaster-sculpted self-portrait, by Benjamin Fedosky [shown above], is included in the “human” exhibition. The piece was inspired by a trip to the ancient city of Pompeii. Fedosky explains…

Displayed among the ruins were plaster casts made from the bodies buried in volcanic ash. These stark and evocative artifacts impressed me immensely. Upon returning home, I began working in directly modeled plaster. This technique involves building a form that is both modeled and carved as the plaster sets until the sculpture is finally realized. The work began as a study of my face. The face quickly became a head, then a bust, developing over a month’s time through a concentrated dialogue between the process, subject, and materials.

“human” will be presented at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago through March 1, 2012. Previews begin on January 16th with a catered Opening Reception scheduled for Friday, January 20th from 5:30-7:30pm. 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—and images from the exhibition—can be found at gallery180.com.

Benjamin Fedosky is a sculptor and painter living in Berkeley, CA. He studied at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee from 1997-1999 and has since developed a self-directed approach to his art and studio practice. Working primarily with the sculpted human form and the painted landscape, Fedosky uses suggestive modeling, active surface treatments, and expressive mark-making to create evocative works that pursue the essence of subject and form. Fedosky has exhibited in solo and group shows throughout the U.S. and in Canada, and his works are held in selected private collections.

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Sheila Ganch ~ human

Image: Sheila Ganch, "Clustered" • stoneware, aluminum, limestone • tallest form 21” each base is 3” x 3” • 2011

I received a shipment of exhibition catalogs for the "human" exhibition, from the printer today. I've work with Modern Postcard for a number of years and they always seem to do an amazing job... and they did it again. The twenty-four page 8.5 x 11", full color catalog, documents the various artists selected for this exhibition. After the pieces were selected, each of the artists were ask to provide a short statement and a one-hundred word biography. This information was used to create the catalog, which will be used to promote the show and to help with the sale of the work.

The "human" exhibition was produced as a benefit for Heartland Alliance. Commissions from the sale of work, will be donated directly to Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights, which provides life changing opportunities to people who are homeless, seeking safety or living in poverty. Copies of the catalog will be sent to my collector base and will be available during the exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. The exhibition opens to previews on January 16, 2012.

One of the sculptors included in "human" is Sheila Ganch. Her grouping of abstracted figures titled 'Clustered", has elements of stoneware and aluminum. In talking about her work, Ganch explains:

A string of challenges are considered and resolved in the creation of these clay forms. The material is sculpted, coaxed, textured, low fired, pigmented, and finally high fired to produce the stoneware sculpture. The final form is mounted on limestone. A single figure in the grouping is cast aluminum, which was sand casted from one of my original stoneware forms.

A reflection of my process, these pieces emerge from an intuitive level that evolves when the clay, stone and metal merge to create what is a thought provoking artistic form. This final form does not exist within a vacuum, but can only be seen as a result of the process. “Clustered”, is the result of a this process. It seeks to capture a sense of community that is missing from our present social and political environment. These figures are gathered to share and honor their differences.

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. Other work by Sheila Ganch can be found at: sculpturebysheilaganch.com

Sheila Ganch received her degree from Ohio State University, but considers her postgraduate training with other fine sculptors to be the reason for her success. Her work has been exhibited at the Bellevue Washington City Sculpture Show, The Fort Wayne Museum of Art; Fort Wayne, IN, The Chicago Cultural Center, The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, The Harold Washington Library; Chicago and Veridian Gallery; New York. Ganch is currently represented by Gallery H; Three Oaks, Michigan, and The Chicago Art Source Gallery; Chicago.
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Ted Preuss ~ human

Image: Ted Preuss, "Recline", Silver Gelatin Print, 17" x 22", edition of 10

One of the amazing artists, selected to exhibit at the upcoming "human" exhibition, soon to be presented at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago is photographer, Ted Preuss. Preuss, a Colorado native, is currently living and working in Chicago. His work is not new to me. I've followed his career for the past six or eight years. His imagery has always been tasteful and exquisitely elegant. Three pieces will be included in the exhibition. Preuss defines his work:

The subject matter in which I photograph is not unique. It is what captures my mind’s eye and imagination. As an artist, I have always been interested in the human form and its many interpretations. I believe there is something inherently beautiful about the human body.

Through my lens I seek to capture the elegance and natural beauty of the female form, yet secretly wishing to leave traces of their identity forever. My images are studies in light and form, which blend formal and sensual qualities, radiating the individuality of my subjects through their emotion-laced gestures. Consequently the images I have captured have a warmth inner beauty with a poetic and distinct elegance.

Join us for "human", which opens to previews on January 16th. An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, January 20th from 5:30-7:30. The "human" exhibition is a national juried exhibition benefiting Heartland Alliance. Commissions from the sale of work, will be donated directly to Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights, which provides life changing opportunities to people who are homeless, seeking safety or living in poverty.

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. Other work by Ted Preuss can be found at: preussphotography.com

Ted Preuss, a self-taught photographer, was born in Colorado in 1962. He picked up his first camera at the age of seven and instantly became obsessed with the nature of the medium. His passion for photography led to a career as a freelance architectural photographer for a decade in Boston and San Francisco. Today his work is primarily fine art B&W photography using vintage view camera with century old lenses. The process of making prints is as important to him as the practice of creating photographs. Preuss chose hand coated platinum-palladium as a medium for its distinct vintage quality and archival properties. His work been featured in Zoom Magazine, Focus Magazine, and Large Format Magazine.
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Kenju Urakubo ~ the human exhibition

The work of Kenju Urakubo will be included into the upcoming "human" exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. Opening to previews on January 16th—with an Opening Reception on Friday, January 20th from 5:30-7:30—the human exhibition is composed of work created by twenty artists from around the country. Commissions from the sale of work will be donated to Heartland Alliance. Two of the paintings included in the exhibition are from New York painter, Kenju Urakubo. His work—images of the female nude reflected onto mirrored walls of beveled glass—are beautifully painted. Urakubo explains:

Willem de Kooning’s painting “Pink Lady” has always hunted me in my mind. I am especially interested in the chaotic relation between the human figure and the straight line of the door and window, found in this painting. Influenced by de Kooning’s work, I create paintings that explore relationships between the organic human form and the sharp, hard edges of the environment. My paintings emphasize the contrast between these elements. The portrayal of a hard-edged glass wall, surrounding the human figure, is not typical of the traditional western painting—rather—it relates to the landscape found in conventional Japanese wood cut prints.

Join us for "human", which opens to previews on January 16th. 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.

Kenju Urakubo came to the United States in 1970 after studying oil painting and graduating from Tama University of Fine Arts, in Tokyo, Japan. Urakubo’s exhibition list begins in the early 1960’s—being widely exhibited and having earned numerous awards. Some recent exhibitions include, a 2008 four-artist invitational at the Art Association of Harrisburg, and solo exhibitions at The Hoyt Institute of Fine Art in New Castle , Pennsylvania [2006] and The International Museum of Art at El Paso, Texas [2005]. Urakubo’s work is in the collections of Chase Manhattan Bank, NY, Nippon Express USA, NY and The International Museum of Fine Art, El Paso, TX. Urakubo is represented by Gallery H in Three Oaks, Michigan.

Image: Kenju Urakubo, Cora I • oil • 23.5” x 23.5” • 2009
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Nicole McCormick Santiago ~ the human exhibition

Indulgence II • oil on canvas • 36.5” x 32” • 2011

"human" will be the second time that Nicole McCormick Santiago will be included into an exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. Her beautiful brightly-painted narratives become a bitter reminder of the comma our over indulgent society will face, lacking moderation. A similar theme is addressed by Pamela Michelle Johnson's glutinous super-sized paintings of confectionary delights currently on exhibit at Gallery 180. McCormick Santiago's two paintings... "Indulgence" and "Indulgence II" have been selected for the "human" exhibition, opening for previews on January 16th. McCormick Santiago explains the intent of her paintings:

As the title implies, “Indulgence” and “Indulgence II” are images, which reference excess. These images are loosely based on Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s work, Land of Cockaigne, wherein Bruegel depicts a land of opulence and ease, far from the truly discordant reality. By overindulging in the surrounding goodness, Bruegel’s inhabitants fall into a gluttonous stupor, no longer useful or productive. I am contemplating some of the same ideas of bounty, immoderation, gluttony and sloth in the Indulgence images. Not unlike the inhabitants of Bruegel’s image, the figures “Indulgence” and “Indulgence II” have surrendered to their surroundings, becoming inactive as a direct result of their immoderation and excess.

"human" opens to previews on January 16th with an Opening Reception scheduled for Friday, January 20th from 5:30-7:30. All work will be available for purchase with commissions donated to Heartland Alliance. 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.

Indulgence • oil on canvas • 33.75” x 32” • 2011

Nicole McCormick Santiago received her BFA from Indiana University and her MFA from the University of New Hampshire. She currently holds the position of Assistant Professor of Studio Art at the College of William & Mary. Her work has been featured in such publications as the Artist’s Magazine and the International Painting Annual 1 (INPA-1). Nicole has shown in over 70 group, juried, and solo exhibitions. She is currently represented by First Street Gallery in New York.
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Brandon Briggs ~ human

On January 16th, Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will open “human” …an exhibition of fine art, from around the country, that explores the human form as well as the human condition. The exhibition includes a variety of painting, drawing, photography and sculpture.Two beautiful paintings by Brandon Briggs are included in the exhibition. His statement describing the work follows.

"My work’s primary concerns are steeped in the traditional fundamentals of figurative painting: creating the feeling of weight, mass, solidity, and character. A perfect marriage of the image and its making is the primary challenge, with the relationship between image and viewer being strengthened by a narrative implied by the scale, gaze, and vulnerability of the subjects. These works are part of a larger group of nine paintings addressing the implications of allegiance in the face of sociocultural discrimination. The paintings are an investigation of the self and its relation to the group. Groups of people who share common values function simultaneously as separate individual energies, as well as a collective group force that acknowledges its own vulnerability, yet is still empowered by commonality. The paintings serve as a physical embodiment of this phenomenon by functioning as individual works with rhythms particular to their design, while harmonizing with one another to allow a greater statement to present itself."

The Human Exhibition includes work by twenty highly-talented artists from around the country. All work will be available for purchase. Commissions from the sale of work will be donated directly to Heartland Alliance to help with their work supporting Human Rights and needs. The exhibition will run through March 1st with an opening reception scheduled for Friday, January 20th 5:30-7:30. 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.

Brandon Briggs earned his BFA in Drawing and Painting from Indiana University in South Bend Indiana in 2007 and an MFA in Drawing and Painting from Bowling Green State University in 2011. Briggs’ work has recently been on view at the Toledo Museum of Art in Toledo Ohio, The Midwest Museum of American Art in Elkhart Indiana, and Thaddeus C. Gallery in Laporte Indiana. Briggs is currently a full time instructor in the School of Art at Bowling Green State University. His work is included in numerous private collections as well as the permanent collection of the Midwest Museum of American Art.

images: Kristen, 20 [left] • oil on canvas • 28” x 19” • 2011
Lindsey, 25 [right] • oil on canvas • 28” x 19” • 2011
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E. Thurston Belmer ~ human, January 20th

On January 16th, Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will open “human” …an exhibition of fine art, from around the country, that explores the human form as well as the human condition. The work includes a variety of painting, drawing, photography and sculpture. In the coming weeks, I'll be highlighting some of the pieces selected for the show... with a little background on the artists that created them.

E. Thurston Belmer contributes an intense, large-scale painting to the exhibition. The painting measuring 138” x 78”, is titled “Jean Porter Green.” Belmer explains the painting as a presentation of embodied trauma. He continues…

“…The scarred green background against the stark black fabric of the figures emphasizes the distance between the figures and the psychological space in which they inhabit. This image is overbearing in its scale, and like the presence and shock-realization of a traumatic experience, “Jean Porter Green” inhabits and recalls painful psychological states. The painting mimics that which we endure; it is the hardships and unavoidable trials that inform who we become. The figures function as a representation of each individual viewer, or a vacant body where experience fills out and completes each form. “Jean Porter Green” operates much like daily interactions between intimate bodies. These moments are fundamentally abstract and intangible, as “Jean Porter Green” presents an emotional and fragmented reality.”

Commissions from the sale of work, included in this exhibition, will be donated directly to Heartland Alliance to help with their work supporting Human Rights and needs. The exhibition will run through March 1st with an opening reception scheduled for Friday, January 20th 5:30-7:30. 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.

E. Thurston Belmer was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He currently lives and works in Saint Louis, Missouri. Belmer’s work was recently featured in national publication Direct Art Magazine with a six page spread and the back-cover. Belmer’s work has been exhibited nationally including: New York, Chicago, Missouri, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Virginia. Recently Belmer exhibited at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. He has also exhibited at the Danforth Museum of Art, in Framingham, Massachusetts in Boston Printmakers Biennial 2011, which was juried by Jim Dine.

Image: “Jean Porter Green”, Oil on Canvas, 138” x 78”, 2011
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human ~ a national juried exhibition

Above is an image of Young Suk James Kim's "Expulsion" which was just one of the pieces acquired for The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago's Permanent Fine Art Collection. It became a part of the school's collection as a purchase award during a show titled "The Human Form" which was presented at Gallery 350 from July 31 - September 6, 2006. Well, It's time to explore figurative imagery, once again, with "human" a national juried exhibition, which will run at Gallery 180 from January 16 through March 1, 2012. The Deadline for entry [received] is Saturday, October 15.

This National Juried Exhibition is open to all artists, living or working in the US. Work must be original. All media except video and installation are eligible. Sculpture is encouraged. No size restrictions. Each artist may submit up to 3 pieces for the entry fee of $30.

The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will purchase at least one piece from the exhibition for inclusion into the school’s Permanent Collection. The collection is diverse and can be viewed online at gallery180.com. The Purchase Award/s will be selected by committee and will be announced at the opening reception.

All submitted works must be for sale. The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will retain a 50% commission from all purchases made during the exhibition. A portion of the commission will be donated to Heartland Alliance for their work in Human Rights. The exhibition will be highly publicized. A color exhibition catalog will be produced to help promote sales.

You can download the Exhibition Prospectus on the home page at gallery180.com

Image: From The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago Corporate Collection: Young Suk James Kim, "Expulsion" oil, 56" x 66"
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photo'11: A Photography Exhibition to Benefit Human Rights

Image: Jeff Phillips

"Tourist Crowd Encounters Storm", Inkjet / Pigment Print, open edition, 24” x 65”, 2008

January 17 – March 3
Opening Reception: Friday, January 21, 5:30-7:30 pm
Gallery Hours: Monday-Thursday 8am-8pm; Friday, 8am-5:30pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm

Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago presents “photo ’11”. This exhibition is the result of a national call for artists and presents a snapshot of the imagery currently being produced with—or through—the photographic process. The show is produced in conjunction with the annual Art of Human Rights® event to benefit Heartland Alliance. Commissions from the sale of work included in this exhibition, will be donated directly to Heartland Alliance to help their work in supporting human rights. Proceeds will help Heartland Alliance provide housing, healthcare, economic security, and legal protection services to more than 200,000 people whose lives are threatened by poverty and danger, including those living with HIV/AIDS.

Exhibiting Artists that are local to Chicago include: Jennifer Jackson [Chicago], Maggie Meiners [Winnetka], Jeff Phillips [Chicago], Ted Preuss [Chicago], Christopher Shoup [Bradley], and Debbie Yost [Park Ridge]. Additional Artists include: Ginny Mangrum [Walnut Creek, CA], James Mullen [Brunswick, ME], Gina Randazzo [Hastings-on-Hudson, NY], and Barbara Simcoe [Omaha, NE].

When the show selections were finalized, each accepted artist was asked to submit a statement defining their work. A catalog composed of the various Artist’s statements—as well as images of the included work—is available at the exhibition.

Image: Ted Preuss

"Virtue", Silver Gelatin Print, edition of 10, 14 x 20”, framed size 22” x 28”, 2006

With work featured in Zoom Magazine, Focus Magazine, and Large Format Magazine, Chicago Photographer, Ted Preuss defines his depictions of the human body as being inspired by the figurative work found in Ancient Greece as well as Renaissance, Italy. Pruess explains:

I believe there is something inherently beautiful about the human body. Using traditional techniques and a large format view camera with century old lenses, I seek to capture the elegance and natural beauty of the female spirit. My images are studies in light and form, radiating the individuality of my subjects through their emotion-laced gestures. Consequently, the images capture the subject’s warm inner beauty with a poetic and distinct vintage feel.

Jeff Phillips is fascinated by the random arrangements of public gatherings. Phillips explains:

As my crowd-spotting series evolves [image at top of post], I become better at identifying opportunities: a crowded tourist attraction, a busy intersection, and a packed subway car are all opportunity-rich environments. I look for animated characters within separate groups of people who—absorbed in their own moments—are often completely unaware of the contribution they are making to the larger scene.

Image: Jennifer Jackson

"Fuller Lane", Archival Print from Film, edition of 125, 16” x 20”, 2010

Jennifer Jackson reveals inhabitable spaces from her past. Her words and her work—poetically—tells the story:

My household turned from five to four when I was still new to this world. The home on Washington Street that makes up my first moments of life, and the only memories of my father living with us, is where my obsession with architecture began. The next three residences we inhabited; Reading Court, Fuller Lane, and Route 59, marked significant turning points in our lives.

Knowing that we would never occupy a particular space for long I grew increasingly obsessed in how one occupies a space, where they place their belongings, and how they design their environment and create a home. For me, this act of nesting mimics the manner in which one archives moments from their past. In most cases, one chooses how to store their memories as a method of coping or remembrance; we bury them to protect ourselves from pain, or they remain as fresh as the day they were created, or time picks away at the once richly layered imagery, until it fades. When one may least expect it, a memory resurfaces when confronted with a familiar smell, color, or sound. These elements trigger the memory deep within our mind until it is brought back to our consciousness.

I hope that you will have the opportunity to view this incredible collection of work—and perhaps purchase a piece to support Human Rights as well as one of these amazingly talented artists.

Photo ‘11 will be presented at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago through March 3. An Opening Reception will take place on Friday, January 21, 5:30-7:30 pm. This exhibition is free and open to the public. 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.

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Call for Work: photo'11

Following is a link to the prospectus for the upcoming photo‘11 Exhibition. If you are not working with photography, or using photographic content within your work, please pass this information on to someone who may be interested.

photo‘11 is a National Juried Exhibition of work using photography or photographic content for its creation. The exhibition will run from January 17 through March 3 with an opening reception on Friday, January 17th.

This call for work can include everything from traditional to experimental imagery but all must be original. Each artist may submit up to 3 images for consideration. A $30 entry fee is required. The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will present at least one Purchase Award, with the acquired piece being added to the school’s fine art collection. All imagery selected for the exhibition will be included in a printed exhibition catalog.

Submissions must be received by the end of day November 5, 2010.

The Important Part:
Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago is supportive of working artists as well as the community at large. With the intent of promoting individual artists and supporting charitable organizations, Gallery 180 will be donating their portion of the commission split to Heartland Alliance for their Human Rights effort. The exhibition will be highly publicized and multiple sales will be encouraged.

You can download the prospectus from the gallery 180 home page at: gallery180.com

Image, from the Fine Art Collection of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago:
Sarah Hadley, "Loss" photograph, 13" x 19"

Alina Poroshina ...Reception Friday, February 19th

It’s been an amazing weekend. As you may know, the College Art Association Annual Conference was taking place here in Chicago. It began on Wednesday evening and continued through Saturday afternoon. The sessions were amazing …and between sessions on Saturday, I took a few hours to hang the Alina Poroshina exhibition in Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago.


The Poroshina show is wonderful and the canvases are substantial—both in size and content. Poroshina has created a body of symbolic imagery, which deals with issues confronting women—and in my opinion—society in general. The beautifully painted surfaces are rich with confident strokes of color, which demand the viewer’s full attention. Benches have been included in the exhibition space to allow onlookers a place to stop to contemplate the imagery. A catered reception for the exhibition will be held this Friday, February 19th from 5:30-7:30. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash in Chicago. The reception is free and all but one of the pieces are available for purchase.

A second show will also be taking place Friday evening… The Art of Human Rights to benefit Heartland Alliance will take place at the River East Art Center from 6:30-9. Check out the Heartland Alliance web site for additional information.

Image: Alina Poroshina, "Abduction of New Orleans", Oil on Canvas, 60 x 96, $8,400 - and detail

The Preview Exhibition continues...

The Preview Exhibition for “The Art of Human Rights” at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art will be closing on February 11th. There are still a variety of wonderful pieces available for purchase with all proceeds benefiting Heartland Alliance.

Shown above [foreground] is a twelve-inch square, mixed media piece titled “They are Burning” by Caroline Anderson. Anderson’s painting is available for $650.

In the background—left to right—


Ted Preuss
“Forget-Me-Not #1”, 16 x 20” silver gelatin print, $650


Nancy Rosen
“No Thanks”, 22 x 30” mixed media, $2,400

Susan Berg
“Westward Bound” 11 x 20" black and white photograph, $250. - No detail available.

Works included in this exhibition range in price from $200-$3,200. 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.

Save the Date... Friday, January 22

The Art of Human Rights ~ Preview Exhibition
Benefiting Heartland Alliance
Reception: Friday, January 22, 5:30-7:30

Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago will host this year's Preview Exhibition for "The Art of Human Rights" to benefit Heartland Alliance. The Exhibition will open at Gallery 180 with a reception on January 22nd. The event is free and exhibited work will be available for purchase. All proceeds from this event will help Heartland Alliance's HIV/AIDS programs and services.

The Preview Exhibition will include just some of the pieces that have been donated by generous Artists from around the country. The entire collection of donated works will be accessible at Heartland's February 19th benefit, which will be held at the River East Art Center. Additional information on that event can be found at: artofhumanrights.com

Please join us from 5:30-7:30 on Friday January 22 for the Preview Exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. Gallery 180 is located at 180 N. Wabash—at the corner of Lake and Wabash—in Chicago's Loop. "The Art of Human Rights" Preview Exhibition will continue at Gallery 180 through February 11th.

Above: Nancy Rosen, "No Thanks" mixed media, 2008

Lorraine Sack, "Impressions"

Above is a painting titled "Impressions" by artist Lorraine Sack. This piece is from a series of still life oil paintings that Sack has been working on for the past few years. The image is 16 x 20 inches and produced in oil on canvas. Sack's website explains her process...

The creative process of still life is much like theatre to me. It is taking a blank space and changing it into something specific to be viewed.

The process of setting the stage for the painting is intuitive. I try out the space itself with objects, natural light, and color as characters each playing a part. Usually the object I chose for the focus is one I admire for the presence it holds. I look at the abstract patterns while arranging and rearranging the secondary objects, the light, and the background around the focus until I see the right ensemble.

Then I start the painting process. First, I establish the abstract patterns with a solid foundation of paint on canvas. Next, I slowly layer veils of color with my brush to weave the space into objects and develop their character. Finally, I know the still life is finished when all the parts play their role working together as a unified voice to create the space I intended.

Lorraine Sack's "Impressions" will be available at the upcoming benefit for Heartland Alliance as well as the Preview Exhibition at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. Gallery 180 will host a catered reception for the Preview Exhibition on January 22 from 5:30-7:30. This event is free to the public and all of the work will be available for purchase with all proceeds going 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. I hope to see you there!

Additional work by Lorraine Sack can be seen on her web site: lorrainestudios.com

The Art of Human Rights - Call for work

Over the past nine years, Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago has presented a variety of exhibitions, which have highlighted the work of regional, national, and international artists. I consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity to review, select and present pieces from the wide variety of proposed work.

Following is yet another opportunity to expose your work to the public. This January, at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, we will present the Preview Exhibition for “The Art of Human Rights”. The exhibition will be on exhibit from January 19 through February 11, and pieces for this exhibition will be selected from those donated to “The Art of Human Rights” benefit. A catered reception will be held at Gallery 180 on Friday, January 22 from 5:30-7:30. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the work will go directly to Heartland Alliance.

At the close of the exhibition—if the donated work has not yet sold—it will be placed on auction at the main event held at the River East Art Center on February 19th. A donation of artwork entitles the artist to a complimentary ticket to “The Art of Human Rights” benefit. There will be a great deal of publicity surrounding the Preview Exhibition as well as the benefit. Both venues will bring recognition to the participating artists. I hope that you will consider donating a piece of your work to this very important cause. Information regarding the benefit can be found on the Heartland Alliance web site and you can download the donation forms at gallery180.com on the schedule page of the site.

I hope to have the opportunity to review your work for this and future exhibitions.