Hofheimer Gallery - The Salon Show

Frances Cox, Brown Tree, oil on canvas, 48″x30″

On Friday, June 12, Hofheimer Gallery opened an exhibition titled, “The Salon Show” featuring a collection of work by gallery artists. Playful, obsessive, and thought provoking, the work included in this exhibition presents an array of elegance with a bit of quirky—highlighting each artist’s unique voice.

 

“Brown Tree” by Frances Cox is composed of painterly strokes of pigment that convey the fluttering of reverberating motion. This fluid abstraction of muted tones manipulates the space in the manner of the Cubists. The use of Implied shadow alludes to the third dimension while the translucent application of paint, infers the sound of rustling sun-soaked leaves. This technique exposes the artist’s journey—revealing areas of underpainting that chronicle the form’s evolution. 

Teresa James offers a new spin on the concept of the glass ceiling, with “My Spirit and I Are One”. James creates the surrealistic image on the inside of a book cover, using mixed media; drawing, watercolor, and collage. The image presents a number of winged hands—a reoccurring symbol in James work—in battle with a pair angry birds, blocked from their given right to soar above the clouds. The unresolved conflict results in the loss of feathers, yet the determination of the birds seems unending. 

Teresa James, My Spirit and I Are One, drawing collage with watercolor on inside book cover, 7 3/4” x 10”

George Klauba uses the style of tattoo art to create intimate canvases that address curious topics. His obsessively painted “They Shall Take Up Serpents” references Mark 16:17-18 and comments on that gospel’s misinterpretation for use as spectacle in religious theatre. As the story goes, in 1910—after preaching this gospel—an illiterate Tennessee preacher pulled a large rattlesnake out of a box with his bare hands. He handled it for a few minutes and then demanded members of the congregation do the same—or burn in Hell. This snake-handling practice became commonplace in the Church of God throughout Appalachia. 

George Klauba, They Shall Take Up Serpents, acrylic on panel, 18″x14″

Referencing this unusual life-threatening custom of the Pentecostals, Klauba defines the narrative through the symbols of tattoo culture. Along with the serpent—representing wisdom, rebirth, and temptation, we find the tortured Christ figure, a dagger—symbolic of betrayal or sacrifice, and a skull—referencing death or mortality. Beautifully painted, Klauba uses a variety of flat color areas, patterns and implied textures, which entice the viewer to continue exploring the charmingly quirky content of his compositions… each one with a unique theme.

All of the work in The Salon Show exhibition can be reviewed online and on site, by appointment. Hofheimer Gallery is planning to reopen to the general public after the Fourth-of-July holiday. Face masks will be required, and social distancing will be practiced.

Hofheimer Gallery is located at 4823 N. Damen, Chicago, IL 60625 | 847.274.7550
View the exhibition at: hofheimergallery.com.

The Salon Show includes work by: Betty Cleeland, Colleen Cox, Frances Cox, Charles Gniech, Teresa James, Mary Jones, George Klauba, Catherine Maize, Michael Noland, Karen Perl, Mary Porterfield, Jeanine Coupe Ryding, Eleanor Spiess-Ferris, Fred Stonehouse, and Chuck Walker. The exhibition continues through July 31st.

Charles Gniech - Hofheimer Gallery

Charles Gniech, Untitled, 2018, acrylic on canvas, 40 x 50"

PERCEPTIONS

Charles Gniech | Julia Katz | Deanna Krueger | Rebecca Moy 

OPENING RECEPTION: FRIDAY, MAY 4,  5-8PM

Yesterday, I dropped off a series of recent paintings at the Hofheimer Gallery. The paintings will be presented in the upcoming exhibition titled, "Perceptions". This group exhibition includes some of my most recent work—including an “Untitled” painting [shown above] utilizing a combination of my established multi-layered surface technique with a new element of smooth transitional color. The contrasts—tactile and hue—add a more dramatic spatial component to the imagery. This painting seems to be a evolutionary moment in the work that I've been producing over the past decade.

I’m excited to be included in this exhibition. Although I’ve exhibited with Deanna Krueger and Rebecca Moy on numerous occasions, this will be my introduction to the work of Julia Katz. I have no doubt that “Perceptions” will be a beautiful array of surface, pattern and color with content that deserves both joyous and introspective engagement.

Please join me at the Opening Reception of “Perceptions” this Friday from 5-8pm at the Hofheimer Gallery. Hofheimer Gallery is located at 4823 N. Damen, Chicago, IL. 60625—on the north side of Chicago in the Ravenswood area at Damen and Lawrence. The gallery is dedicated to introducing contemporary fine art in painting, drawing and sculpture from established and emerging artists. Through the year the gallery will feature provocative, engaging, solo and group exhibitions.

OPENING RECEPTION: Friday, May 4th  5-8pm

The exhibition continues through May 29

HOFHEIMER GALLERY  |  4823 N. Damen  |  Chicago, IL. 60625  |  847.274.7550

CURATORS CREATE continues through July 7th

Installation view: Charles Gniech, Untitled 40" x 60" 

The exhibition titled CURATORS CREATE continues at the Bridgeport Art Center through July 7th. The exhibition presents a diverse assortment of work produced by ten regional Artist/Curators, including: Mary Ellen Croteau, Charles Gniech, Sergio Gomez, Stano Grezdo, Lelde Kalmite, Alan Leder, Dolores Mercado, Betty Ann Mocek, Joyce Owens and Georgia Schwender,

The Bridgeport Art Center is located at 1200 W. 35th Street in Chicago. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday 8am - 6pm and Sunday 8am - 12 noon. Parking is free and available on the north side of the building. The gallery is located on the 4th floor. Learn more at: BridgeportArt.com

Joliet Junior College: Studio Art Faculty Exhibition

Foreground: Charles Gniech, "Breath" acrylic on canvas 60" x 72"

The JJC Studio Art Faculty Exhibition opened this week in the Laura A. Sprague Art Gallery of Joliet Junior College, located at 1215 Houbolt Road in Joliet, Illinois. The exhibition includes a wide variety of media by thirteen of the fine art professionals, currently teaching at the college.

Exhibition director, Joe Milosevich, organized the compilation of diverse content expressed through assemblage, sculpture, painting and digital media. The exhibition includes work by Terry Adams, Susan Franker, Elise Kendrot, Todd Reed, Steve Sherrell, Lloyd Wassenaar, Ann Blaas, Margie Glass-Sula, Eric Gorder, Joe Milosevich, Gary Schirmer, Garry Vettori, as well as myself.

I am please to be included in the exhibition with two recent works… “Breath” a 60 x 72 inch, 2-panel acrylic painting on canvas [shown above] and an “Untitled” acrylic on canvas painting, measuring 60 x 40 inches, from 2016.

My work continues the exploration of meditative surfaces—inspired by the sacred and mystical stone circles found throughout Great Britain. With nature-inspired color harmonies, the once-fluid media weaves an ornate surface producing a mesh of complex tone and texture. The work has evolved into imagery of trickling formations that encourage contemplative introspection.

As I roamed the exhibition, I found myself drawn to the work of two specific artists… These are colleagues with whom I have yet to encounter. 

Margie Glass-Sula, The Pulpit, Oil on Canvas, 24 x 24

Exhibiting a number of intimate canvases—as well as a floor-standing wooden sculpture—is artist, Margie Glass-Sula. With beautiful forms inspired by nature, her work exudes a sense of peaceful harmony. Presented in quiet tints of color, the abstracted forms seem to be inspired by protective barriers found in nature. The work conveys the essence of seedpods, seashells, hives and nests but not with literal interpretation. The work takes us to another world… a world not commonly seen in our busy urban lives.

Researching the work further, I found Glass-Sula’s artist statement. It reads—in part, “My work explores the quiet simplicity of things….”.

Steve Sherrell, String Theory, Acrylic on panel, 36 x 24

Another standout in the show is a painting by Steve Sherrell titled “String Theory”. Drawn into the beauty of the interconnected organic cellular forms—created with both transparent and opaquely layered wet media—I was reminded of the sculptures of Jean Dubuffet. But Sherrell’s 2-dementional painting has greater depth then the 3-dementional work created by Dubuffet …clearly two artists with dissimilar intent. Sherrell presents a complex collaboration of flat shapes with loosely outlined quivering edges. Neutral tones with quiet hints of color, present a unique organic structure that seems to float—yet connects to distant forms of similar structure.

I looked down at the identifying label to find the title “String Theory”. Now, the study of physics is not my strong point but I have a recollection that string theory defines minute particles—not as we think they are but as vibrational energy. It’s the scientific version of new age thinking of the 1990’s. Steve Sherrell’s “String Theory” is a beautiful though-provoking piece.

The JJC Studio Art Faculty Exhibition is well worth the trip out to Joliet. The Laura A. Sprague Art Gallery is located at 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8am to 8pm. The exhibition continues through March 31^st.
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Fluidity: The 4th Annual Bridgeport Art Center Competition

The 4th Annual Bridgeport Art Center Competition opened last Friday night with an energetic, well-attended reception. The Exhibition—Juried by Mary Ellen Croteau and William Lieberman [Zolla/Lieberman Gallery]—is one of the best group exhibitions that I’ve seen in awhile. With a balanced array or imagery from abstraction to realism—including both two and three-dimensional work—the show presents a visual consistency with fluid transition from one end of the gallery to the other. The audience is engaged with each work-of-art offering a new adventure… yet—visually—connected to the pieces prior and post. Due credit should be given to Curator, Lelde Kalmite.

I was taken with the show from the moment I entered the forth-floor gallery. I did a quick scan of the room… said hello to some colleagues and then went off to explore. I circled the room once—to get an overview—then again, more slowly, to intently examine each piece.

Included in the exhibition is a wonderfully ornate canvas by Zachary Williams, titled “The Ocean’s Wide”. Combining the ideas of the horror vacui—reminiscent of Dubuffet—with the surrealistic melting clocks of Dali, Zachary Williams creates an elaborate composition of unrecognizable objects that make the unreal, real. An unusual seascape, Williams presents a tightly knit wall of mesmerizing elements that encourage the continued exploration of his unconventional world.

Zachary Williams, The Ocean's Wide-Detail, 2015, oil on canvas, 24" x 78"

Also included in the exhibition is a 40-inch square photograph [on canvas], titled “Adieu! [Greta Rupeika]” by Carol Estes. The image is startling, yet oddly beautiful. It presents a woman hovering in a shallow pool of water… her seemingly lifeless hand visible just below the surface. She wears elegant horns and dried foliage in her braided blond hair. The beautifully haunting image is reminiscent of a still from a Julie Taymore film.

Carol Estes, Adieu! [Greta Rupeika], 2015, framed photo on canvas, 40" x 40"

One of the more poetic works in the show is an untitled handmade paper, ink, thread, and fabric piece by Yoonshin Park. With a history of book art and creating works-of-art with paper, Yoonshin Park offers a series of conceptual pieces as metaphor for the chapters in a life… the ebb and flow of memories like waves in the ocean. From a recent artist statement, Park explains…

“…As the water rises and falls, pages of our daily experience add and subtract to and from our memory. Our daily life permeates our memory just as the ink is absorbed into each page and creates new shapes and patterns onto what once was a clean slate of a blank page.”

Yoonshin Park, Untitled 2, 2015, handmade paper, ink, threads, fabric, 16" x 10" x .5" [set of three]

The show includes some beautifully fluid sculptural works as well: A floating steel and chain piece by Michael Grucza, titled “Ball and Chain”, A burlap, wood and wire, wall piece, titled “Arpillers” by Marcus Alonso, and an intestine-like fiber piece titled “Polyps” made of steel, organza and plastic, by Molly Ann Wood. There are also two intimate hand carved limestone pieces by June C. Flnnegan that are exceptional. Both sculptures embrace the stone material of their creation and evoke a soothing visual sensitivity. “Grounded in the Garden” is the flatter of the two and “The Butterfly’s Garden” the more dimensional. These forms present the organic characteristics that are found in nature and tempt the caress of the onlooker.

The artists included in the 4th Annual Bridgeport Art Center Competition are: Anthony Abboreno, Macus Alonso, Iman Alsaden, Aviva Alter, Kristin August, Mike Bale, Pedro Basantes, Carol Block, Rose Blouin, Fred Camper, Javier Chavira, Rick Cortez, Jennifer Cronin, Eoin Cullen, Andrew Ek, Carol Estes, Arielle Estrella, June C. Finnegan, Alicia Forestall-Boehm, Tracy Frein, David Anthony Geary, Charles Gniech [myself… full disclosure], Michael Goro, Peter N. Gray, Michael Grucza, Daniel Guidara, Andrew Hall, Russell Harris, Clifton Henri, Marilyn Hollander, Jon Hook, Jesse L. Howard, Carolyn Cronin Hughes, Andrew Kim, Beth LeFauve, Judy, Lipman Shechter, Renee McGinnis, Jane Michalski, Shirley Nannini & Candace Wark, (collaborative), Jack Nixon, Yoonshin Park, Gerry Santora, Steven Schwab, J. Michael Taylor, Nancy VanKanegan, Noah Vaughn, Derek Walter, Rebecca Wolfram, Molly, Ann Wood, Reisha Williams, and Zachary J. Williams.

Charles Gniech, Symbiotic, 2014, acrylic on canvas, 40" x 40"

The 4th Annual Bridgeport Art Center Competition continues through April 1 and is located in the forth floor gallery at 1200 W. 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60609. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 8am – 6pm and Sunday, 8am – 12noon.

About the Jurors:

Mary Ellen Croteau received a BFA from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1990 and a MFA from Rutgers University in 1998. She has lectured and exhibited internationally. Croteau has won numerous awards and has been reviewed and reproduced worldwide in books, magazines and on television.

William Lieberman maintains the Zolla/Lieberman Gallery in the River North Gallery District of Chicago. Since the 1970’s, the Zolla/Lieberman Gallery has been a top venue for contemporary art in the Chicago and Worldwide. Zolla/Lieberman Gallery is located at 325 W. Huron Street in Chicago. 
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The Voyeur Series by Charles Gniech, presented at The Art Center through January 2

There are just a few days left to explore the various exhibitions at The Art Center-Highland Park. Along with "FORMAL", which highlights the works of Igor & Marina, Beth Kamhi and Carl Holzman, you also have an opportunity to experience The Art Center's student gallery as well as ta small exhibition of paintings of my work—from my Voyeur series of 2005. All of the TAC exhibits will close at the end of the day on Saturday, January 2nd.

The Voyeur series was produced from 2004-05, with each painting depicting a figure peering through small horizontal opening floating in a field of color. The various emotions, shown in the gaze of each subject, define a silent interaction with the viewer. The paintings are presented in a hallway at The Art Center, forcing the interaction.

The Art Center-Highland Park is located at 1957 Sheridan Road in Highland Park, Illinois. Gallery Hours are Monday through Friday from 9am–5pm, Saturday 9-4:30 but call ahead this week for holiday hours. All work in the exhibition is available for purchase. The exhibition continues through January 2.

 Chicago Tribune image: Frank Joseph Zirbel inspecting "Lust" by Charles Gniech
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Meditative Surfaces ~ The Art Center-Highland Park

Doug Fogelson, “Dirt (Illinois)”, Photogram / Ed. of 6, 24" x 20"

Save the Date: Friday, May 22, 6:30-9pm

The always evolving fine art exhibition "Meditative Surfaces" will be presented at The Art Center-Highland Park from May 7 through July 10 with an open reception on Friday, May 22 from 6:30-9pm. This exhibition brings together the work of six-very different-fine artists with a visually reoccurring theme of variations on repetition. The show is comprised of two painters; Charles Gniech & Rebecca Moy, a mixed media artist; Deanna Krueger, two photographers; Maggie Meiners & Doug Fogelson, and sculptor; Josh Garber.
 
Originally presented as a three-person exhibition exhibited at Schoenherr Art Gallery, North Central College; Naperville, Illinois in 2009, the work invited the audience to "lose themselves" in the surface patterns and textures the meditative acrylic paintings of Charles Gniech, the mixed media imagery of Deanna Krueger and the abstract photography of Maggie Meiners. The updated show has further evolved to present the most current works of the original three and to explore new objects of interest including the tactile aluminum sculpture of Josh Garber, photograms in saturated hues by Doug Fogelson, and the whimsical and organically complex paintings by Rebecca Moy.
 
It's true that a picture is worth a thousand words... The exhibition is a journey that offers a glimpse into each individual artist's life through the experience of his or her personal passion.  While each piece of art offers a unique visual experience, the work comes together to offer a grander message—one of sanctuary, inner piece and harmony. As with a dramatic sunrise, Not at all quite and reserved, the show presents visuals evoking every emotion. Color palettes range from peacefully subtle muted tones to brilliant saturated hues. And as in nature, the forms range from organic to aggressive.

A public reception for “Meditative Surfaces” will be held at The Art Center-Highland Park on Friday, May 22 from 6:30-9. The Art Center-Highland Park is located at 1957 Sheridan Road in Highland Park, Illinois. Gallery Hours are Monday through Saturday from 9am–4:30pm and Sunday, by appointment. All work in the exhibition is available for purchase. The exhibition continues through July 10.

The Art Center-Highland Park is dedicated to promoting the appreciation of contemporary fine art through exhibitions by both established and emerging artists. We foster creativity through the experience and discussion of fine art and offer extensive educational opportunities through a broad range of classes, panel discussions, workshops and lectures. A nonprofit organization, The Art Center-Highland Park connects artists with the community at large—supporting creativity at every level. 

Doug Fogelson (Born Chicago 1970) studied photography at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Columbia College Chicago. His photographic manipulations are displayed in notable public and private collections such as The J. Paul Getty Center, The Museum of Contemporary Photography, The Cleveland Clinic and exhibited with esteemed galleries. He has been recognized by publications including Art News,Photo District News, Art Forum, and AfterImage. Doug Fogelson founded Front Forty Press, an award-winning independent fine art publishing company, and has taught in the Photography Department of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He is an advocate for the fine arts and social/ecological sustainability.

Josh Garber, “Turn”, Powder Coated Welded Aluminum, 39 x 36 x 34"

Josh Garber (Born 1963) works and lives and Chicago. He is a recipient of the Canada Council B Grant and Pollock-Krasner grant and has completed public commissions in Phoenix, Chicago and Cincinnati. After receiving his BFA from Alfred University, Garber participated in The Kohler and Sculpture Space residencies. Currently he is represented with Zolla/Lieberman Gallery in Chicago, Turner Carroll Gallery in Santa Fe and Melissa Morgan in Palm Desert, CA. 

Charles Gniech, “Anomaly”, Acrylic on Canvas, 40” x 60”

Charles Gniech (Born: Chicago 1962) lives and works in Chicago. He holds a Master of Fine Art degree with an emphasis in painting and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in illustration, both from Northern Illinois University. While teaching, curating, and consulting, Gniech continues to paint—exhibiting at the national level. His work has been repeatedly presented at both The Rockford Art Museum and The Fort Wayne Museum of Art. Gniech’s paintings have been acquired for numerous public and private collections, with a large canvas recently purchased for the Permanent Collection of The Fort Wayne Museum of Art. His work is represented by Bluestone Gallery in Philadelphia and Gallery H in Three Oaks, Michigan. 

Deanna Krueger, “Neptune” Mixed Media, 63” x 63”

Born and raised in Michigan (1965) and currently living in Chicago, Deanna Krueger is an Instructor at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago, teaching courses in painting and design. Krueger holds a Master of Fine Art degree from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, Summa Cum Laude, from the University of Michigan. She has been awarded artist residencies at Brush Creek Foundation for the Arts in Saratoga, WY, at Ragdale in Lake Forest, IL, and at Contemporary Artist Center In North Adams, MA. Krueger’s work has been exhibited nationally as well as internationally with exhibits in Berlin and Rome. A solo exhibition of Krueger’s work was presented at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago in 2010, and at Wright Gallery at College of Lake County in 2015. Krueger’s work has been acquired for a number of public and private collections including a recent acquisition for the Permanent Collection of the Fort Wayne Museum of Art.

Maggie Meiners, “Untitled #3”, Photographic Print, 10” x 10”

Maggie Meiners (Born: Chicago 1972) work has most recently been seen as part of the Chicago Project-Catherine Edelman Gallery, the Anne Loucks Gallery in Glencoe and is currently up at HBF Textiles in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago. She has also exhibited at various museums and colleges around the country. Maggie’s work is included in numerous public and private collections including, Harrison Street Lofts, Wheaton College, and The Illinois Institute of Art. Meiners currently serves on the Board of the Filter Photo Festival, is a member of the Advisory Committee at the Museum of Contemporary Photography and is the Founder of Co-Star Collective. Meiners grew up outside of Chicago and continues to have her work regularly featured at galleries, executive offices and private collections.

Rebecca Moy, “Aquatic”, Acrylic on Canvas, 44” x 48” 

Rebecca Moy (Born: 1980, LaGrange, Illinois), is a 2003 graduate of Columbia College Chicago where she studied visual arts management. Since, Rebecca has completed a visual arts residency at River East Art Center, Chicago; worked with the Field Museum for live painting exhibitions and has had the honor of exhibiting solo at the prestigious Union League Club, Chicago, Illinois Institute of Art, Park Schreck Gallery, Curly Tale Fine Art, Heir Gallery and Orland Park Public Library, IL and several other group exhibitions. Rebecca’s paintings are in the permanent collections of Neiman Marcus, The Dana Hotel, Resonant Legal Media, Northwestern Mutual, MD2 International, and several privately owned. Rebecca simultaneously works on private commissions and is in the beginning of a new series entitled “Aphasia” which directly addresses the experience of losing a parent in her unique sense of color and composition.

Amy Kartheiser; the details of fine art

Charles Gniech photograph 

There is a wonderful story in the Chicago Home+Garden section of this month's Chicago magazine. The story is titled "Clean Slate: A Lincoln Park house revamped by a designer who loves starting fresh" and it features the home of designer Amy Kartheiser. The article is written by Kari Richardson, photography by Bob Coscarelli with styling by Johanna Lowe.

The article explores the details that Kartheiser integrates when composing her exquisite environments. In the case of her own Lincoln Park Queen Anne home, the artical points out custom mouldings, the specialty cabinetry and hardware, the re-working of a turn-of-the-century bathtub, and—of course—fine art.

Large works of art are used to create focal points in two areas of the main level of the home. The first—a work on paper by Francine Turk which is featured on the opening page of the story. A few pages later, one of my recent canvases appears in the home's sitting room—elegantly placed above the fireplace and flanked by custom millwork designed by Kartheisier. I'm honored to have my work in this exquisite home.

For additional information, and to read the article, pick up the December issue of Chicago magazine. I've compiled the pages below. Additional information about the work of designer Amy Kartheiser, can be found at: amykartheiserdesign.com

Charles Gniech ~ Gallery H, Three Oaks, MI

Installation View: Gallery H, Three Oaks, Michigan 

Left to right, work by: Charles Gniech, Deanna Krueger, Charles Gniech,
table sculpture by Len Cowgill

Last week, Nancy Hoffman—the owner of Gallery H in Three Oaks, Michigan—came to my studio to review work for an upcoming group exhibition. Nancy and I have a long history—we've been friends for more then a decade. Over the years, she has done a wonderful job representing my work in the Chicago/Michigan market... I was excited to show her the work that I've been producing. By the conclusion of our meeting, she had selected nine pieces for the show. This past Saturday morning, I drove out to Gallery H to deliver the paintings. 

I spent the day with Nancy and her assistant, Elisha, installing the exhibition. The show includes work by: Ellen Cocose, Len Cowgill, Sheila Ganch, Andrea Harris, Deanna Krueger, Tom Matucci, Sheila Oettinger, Francine Turk and myself. The work flows together seamlessly with a [generally] muted color palette—exploring obsessive patterns and textures which leave the viewer absorbed in introspection. The show will be up through July so if you're looking for one more reason to explore Harbor Country, here it is.

Installation View: Gallery H, Three Oaks, Michigan 
Left to right, work by: Ellen Cocose, Charles Gniech, Sheila Oettinger

Gallery H is located at 15 South Elm Street in Three Oaks, Michigan. Hours are: Fridays 12pm–5pm / Saturdays 12pm–5pm EST / Sundays 12pm–4pm EST. Learn more at galleryh.net 

Road Trip... Gallery H, Three Oaks. MI

 Charles Gniech, "Essence" 2014, acrylic on canvas 40x40"

My car is packed in anticipation of tomorrow's road trip to Three Oaks, Michigan. I’ll be delivering nine of my acrylic paintings for an exhibition that will open this weekend at Gallery H. The work continues to focus on the fluid, meditative qualities of the stone patterns that make up each segment of the megalithic stone circles found in Great Britain. The canvases range in size from 40 x 60 inches to 40 inches square, with two smaller pieces included in the work, sized at 36 and 24 inches square.

Gallery H, in Three Oaks, is an easy hour-long trip from downtown Chicago [maybe an hour and fifteen minutes with traffic]. I've made this trip on numerous occasions—You see, I use to review work and curate for the space when Nancy Hoffman opened the gallery in the spring of 2005. I worked with Hoffman for the first three years, and then stepped away to focus on my own paintings. If you have an opportunity to see the exhibition, it will be worth the trip.

Gallery H is located at 15 South Elm Street in Three Oaks, Michigan. Hours are: Fridays 12pm–5pm / Saturdays 12pm–5pm EST / Sundays 12pm–4pm EST. Learn more at galleryh.net 
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To Summon Spring @ ZIA Gallery

Had enough of Chicago's winter weather? 

Opening this Saturday, at ZIA Gallery in Winnetka, is an exhibition of color-saturated, vibrant works of art, by eleven of the gallery artists. The exhibition includes painting, photography, mixed media and sculptural works. The show titled "To Summon Spring" was conceived by Anne Hughes and includes work by: Ted Preuss, Mary Burk, Melissa Jay Craig, Michael Cutlip, Kathy Weaver, Karina Hean, Fumiko Toda, Jonathan Ricca, John Vlahakis, Anne Hughes and myself. If your life is lacking a bit of color, this is the perfect solution.

The Opening Reception of "To Summon Spring" is Saturday, February 22 from 5-7pm.  ZIA Gallery is located at 548 Chestnut in Winnetka, Illinois... 17 miles north of Chicago. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00am–5:00pm. Stop by and check it out.

Above Image:
Top Row: Ted Preuss, Mary Burke, Melissa Jay Craig and Michael Cutlip
Middle Row: Kathy Weaver, Karina Hean, Charles Gniech, and Fumiko Toda
Bottom Row: Jonathan Ricci, John Vlahakis, and Anne Hughes
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ArtScene at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art: Meditative Surfaces

Deanna Krueger, "Otekaike", Mixed Media, 54x72"

In just a few weeks, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art will be hosting "Meditative Surfaces"—a three-person exhibition comprised of work by Deanna Krueger, Maggie Meiners and myself. The exhibition will be presented in the Contemporary Regional Gallery from November 9 through January 19. Meditative Surfaces presents work created with both traditional and experimental techniques—yet all of the pieces explore unique personal content. The diversity of inspiration includes: X-Ray and MRI diagnostic imagery, mixed-media, self-analysis through photographic childhood contemplations and the prehistoric megaliths of Great Britain.

 

Maggie Meiners, "Slick" C-Print, 40x40"

On Friday, November 15th, Krueger, Meiners and myself will be in Fort Wayne to take part in the ArtScene lecture series. ArtScene is a dynamic program featuring living artists and curators discussing their work in contemporary life through diverse topics such as motivations, struggles, influences, life experiences, and artistic inspirations.

ArtScene: Meditative Surfaces will be presented on November 15 at 6:30pm. The event is free to FWMoA Members. There is a $5 fee for non-members.

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art is located in downtown Fort Wayne on Main Street next to the Arts United Center at the corner of Main and Lafayette. The Museum offers convenient parking behind the building, and is fully handicap accessible. The museum is open: Sunday, 12-5 pm, Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am - 6pm, and Thursday 10am-8 pm.

 

 Charles Gniech "Wave Watching" acrylic on canvas, 40x60"

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Born and raised in Michigan and currently living in Chicago, Deanna Krueger is an Instructor at Northeastern Illinois University, teaching courses in painting and design. Krueger holds a Master of Fine Art degree from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan. She has been a Visiting Artist at various Colleges and Universities around the mid-west, including The University of Michigan, Portland College in Champaign, Illinois, and Robert Morris College in Chicago. Krueger’s work has been exhibited nationally as well as internationally with exhibits in Berlin and Rome. A Solo exhibition of Krueger’s work will be presented at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, during the 2010 exhibition season.


Born in Chicago, IL, Maggie Meiners had a suburban upbringing, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from University of Colorado-Boulder, and a Master of Education degree from De Paul University in Chicago, Illinois. She now resides outside of Chicago. Although Meiners is primarily a self-taught photographer, she devours books on art and photography, has taken workshops with Diane Kittle, Lauren Henkin, and Norman Mauskopf, and relies on a number of mentors to help her hone her creative and photographic skills. Meiners tends to find interest in objects that most people would overlook… and presents those subjects in her photography. It doesn’t necessarily matter what the subject is, but whether or not it is open for interpretation. Her compositions are direct, to the point of appearing minimal, while her subject matter, conversely discloses significant complexity. Meiner’s work appears in numerous private and public collections, including: The Illinois Institute of Art, Harrison Street Lofts, and Wheaton College. Additionally, she has been the recipient of numerous awards and prizes, including the 2009 Ragdale Prize. Among other bodies of work, Meiners continues to produce pieces for her large scale “Childhood Contemplations” imagery. This abstract work—comprised of random color patterns—invites the viewer to enter into a meditative environment. This series was exhibited at Gallery 180 of The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, in September 2008 and is currently touring with the work of Deanna Krueger and Charles Gniech.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Charles Gniech is a Professor of Art at The Illinois Institute of Art- Chicago. He holds a Master of Fine Art degree with an emphasis in painting and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in illustration, both from Northern Illinois University. While teaching, curating, consulting and freelancing, Gniech continues to paint and exhibits at the national level. His paintings focus on the meditative qualities of the stone circles found throughout Great Britain. Having explored many megalithic sites over the past twenty years, Gniech embraces the peaceful serenity of the mystical structures—a serenity that is reflected in his work. Images of his paintings may be seen on the web site: gniech.com The paintings of Charles Gniech have been included into various gallery and museum exhibitions. His work has been exhibited at The Rockford Art Museum, The Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and The Quincy Art Center. Represented by ZIA Gallery [Winnetka, IL] and Gallery H [Three Oaks, MI], Gniech’s paintings have been acquired for numerous public and private collections.

Charles Gniech ~ Callanish at ZIA Gallery

Charles Gniech, “Callanish 9808”, Color Photograph, 1/1, 19.5”x12.75” 1998

First exhibited in 1998 at Kavi Gupta’s "Vedanta" Gallery, "Callanish 9808" was presented in a solo show titled "Sanctuary". At that point in my career, I was focused on the physical qualities of the prehistoric sites found throughout the United Kingdom. The Sanctuary exhibition mixed the photographic documentation of various sites, and rock surface details, with painted geometric abstract interpretations of the sites. Some of the photographic surface details were the genesis of my current paintings.

In 1998, after flying from Chicago to London, I hopped a train north to Inverness… a bus to Uilapool… and then a ferry to the little town of Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Stornoway is a little harbor town seemingly two blocks long and two blocks wide. As the ferry approached, I could see an old castle on the hill behind the harbor. I arrived with no accommodations. Back then I enjoyed living in the moment… “showing up” and allowing destiny to intervene. I still try to live my life like this but I’ve found that it becomes more difficult with age and responsibilities. I never ended up sleeping on the street, but I did come close, just once. I always seemed to be taken care of… always having what was needed; a warm bed, food, or an interesting conversation. I’m currently in the process of compiling the stories of my experiences, and of the people I encountered through my exploration of the megalithic structures, traveling throughout the UK. I’m sure segments of these stories will end up in future posts.

In any case… Two original color photographs—Callanish 9808, and Callinash 9809—will be available through ZIA Gallery in Winnetka. The two prints are one-of-a-kind… with my signature hidden under the mat. The upcoming “750 show” will include work from a variety of the gallery artists as well as that of some invited artists. All works—very affordable—under $750… hence the name.

ZIA Gallery is located at 548 Chestnut in Winnetka, Illinois... 17 miles north of Chicago. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00am–5:00pm. The opening reception for the 750 show is Saturday, July 27, 4:00–7:00pm. Stop by and check it out.
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Meditative Surfaces ~ Fort Wayne Museum of Art

Charles Gniech, Watching Waves, acrylic on canvas, 36" x 60"

This fall, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art will be presenting the three-person exhibition titled "Meditative Surfaces". Meditative Surfaces is a powerfully inspirational exhibition focusing on meditative surface patterns. The exhibition brings together the work of Mixed-media Artist; Deanna Krueger, Photographer; Maggie Meiners and my surface paintings. All of the included work was inspired by our own—very different—individual passions, yet the work comes together to present a united statement of introspection.

I've spent more then a two decades exploring the serene qualities of the prehistoric stone circles that are found throughout Great Britain. 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.

I am inspired by the patterns found on the massive prehistoric megaliths. I reference and manipulate these patterns to create tranquil imagery. My latest body of work is influenced by the meditative qualities of the fluid surface patterns found on 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 two other artists presented in this exhibition are Mixed Media Artist, Deanna Krueger and Fine Art Photographer, Maggie Meiners.
 
Deanna Krueger produces powerful mixed media forms created from recycled medical diagnostic film layered with monotypes. The film is torn, repositioned, and then stapled together to create various multi-faceted surfaces. The semi-reflective surfaces create a mesmerizing, gem-like quality. Krueger’s given titles hint at the conceptual nuances, which imply humanity’s collective search for meaning. Krueger explains:

“I am interested in humanity's collective search for meaning in the absurdity that is this life, and in the pleasure to be found in the various manifestations of that search.”

“…Serving as a marker of this time of transition, the materials speak to the recent evolution of information storage. When virtual documents replace paper, the lowly staple will become an artifact of an earlier information age. Modes of diagnostic imagery are shifting as well: X-Rays and MRI scans are increasingly being recorded solely in the digital realm.”

The large-scale abstract photographs of Maggie Meiners come from her “Childhood Contemplations” series. The mere size of these forty-inch square digital c-prints, allows the viewer to become engulfed by the imagery and to explore their inner mind. The various color patterns are meant to trigger memories on which to contemplate. In defining this body of work, Meiners explains:

“Although the use of blurred imagery seems to defy logic, this intentional shift in focus is meant to transfix and then transport the viewer to a mind space where memories run wild. Various spectrums of color are used as a guide to revisit and explore memories of the past.”

"Meditative Surfaces" will be exhibited at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art from November 13 through January 14th with a panel discussion scheduled for Friday, November 15th. More on that in future posts.
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Charles Gniech at ZIA Gallery

Gniech Exhibition installation image provided by Anne Hughes of ZIA Gallery

An exhibition of my latest paintings, opened at ZIA Gallery last weekend. The work is based on the meditative qualities of the stone circles of Great Britain.   

I’ve spent roughly two decades researching and exploring the stone circles of Great Britain. Britain is littered with more than four hundred and thirty of these prehistoric sites. Each site seems to be placed in a strange segment of paradise… whether on the plateau of a mountain in the Lake District or in the back yard of an old farmhouse somewhere in the middle of the countryside. Each site has it’s own charm and personality. Each site is an experience.

This latest body of work is influenced by the meditative qualities of the fluid surface-patterns found on some of these monuments. I have taken artistic liberties in the replication, manipulation and abstraction of the surface patterns, yet the work continues to convey the serene qualities regularly associated with nature, harmony and inner peace.

The exhibition continues through November 24th. ZIA Gallery is located at 548 Chestnut in Winnetka, Illinois. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10-5. Street parking is readily available.
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Charles Gniech at ZIA Gallery

Subtle Breeze, acrylic on canvas, 36" x 72" 

A couple of weeks ago, I spent some time talking about my own fine art with Shannon Gallagher of ZIA Gallery in Winnetka. ZIA will be presenting a show of my recent work, opening October 19th with a reception from 5-7:30. Shannon was using our conversation to compose an article, which would offer some insights into my world as a fine artist. The article—titled “The Surface World of Charles Gniech”—is posted on the ZIA Gallery blog at: ziagallery.net/blog

ZIA Gallery is located at 548 Chestnut in Winnetka, IL. The exhibition runs through November 24. 
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Gallery H, Three Oaks, MI

Gallery H: Sheila Ganch sculpture, Charles Gniech: Anomaly, 40 x 60", acrylic on canvas

A number of years ago, I presented a series of large figurative paintings in a solo exhibition at the Fine Arts Building Gallery. The space included a secondary “members gallery” that presented one piece of work from each of the affiliated artists. After my solo show closed, I moved one the recently shown pieces—“The Actor Sleeps” to the “members gallery”. The substantial painting was eight-feet tall, four-feet wide, and dominated the space.

At the reception for the following exhibition—the work of Grace Cole, if I remember correctly—I was working the front desk. And that’s when I met Nancy Hoffman.

A beautiful woman approached me and asked about the very large painting in the members gallery. She asked me who the artist was and I smiled, extended my hand, and introduced myself. She responded in kind, and after some conversation, Nancy scheduled a meeting to see additional work. She later purchased “The Actor Sleeps” and with a common love for art, we became friends.

Nancy Hoffman is the Director of Gallery H in Three Oaks, Michigan. After seeing my recent exhibition at Gallery 180, she requested some of my work for her Michigan gallery. I was happy to be included. 

Gallery H: Sheila Oettinger, sculpture, Charles Gniech "Rise" 40 x 40" acrylic on canvas

I drove up to Three Oaks last week to deliver the work. Three Oaks is a little town located a few minutes over the Indiana – Michigan Border. The surrounding area is inhabited by the summer homes of Chicago’s affluent. The perfect getaway, Harbor Country offers its residents a quick and peaceful retreat from the chaos of their busy lives in the city. The area includes the beautiful Lake Michigan beaches, plenty of restaurants, antiques, and—or course—fine art.

Being a Curator, I helped to install the current exhibition at Gallery H, which includes the work of Deanna Krueger, Richard Laurent, Sheila Ganch, Audry Cramblit and Andrea Harris. The various paintings and sculptures work seamlessly to create a space of peaceful contemplation. The superior quality of the fine art presented, has resulted in a stellar reputation for Hoffman and her gallery. If you have an opportunity to head up to Harbor Country, take the time to explore Gallery H located at 15 S. Elm, Three Oaks, Michigan. It’s worth the trip. 

Gallery H: Sheila Ganch sculpture in the foreground Charles Gniech paintings

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