by Elizabeth Monks Hack
Greetings from the Cypress Gallery, situated on one of the loveliest corners of Lompoc. It is particularly beautiful in the golden light of fall. Our display this month is full of warmth, with works charged with autumnal glow. A walk around the Cypress proves again the rich abundance of talent and creativity in our midst.
November brings to the gallery a unique featured show by local artist Liz Poulin Alvarez, entitled “Canine Companions.” These lively paintings clearly demonstrate Poulin Alvarez loves the act of painting – that she knows her way around the canvas, and understands the potential of color and brush. They also show that she really loves her dogs Jack and Fred!
Poulin Alvarez often brings her dogs along while painting on location. She uses her signature gestural technique to its best effect in these animated paintings. Even when a pooch is seated he emanates movement, suggesting the adage, “a happy dog is a tired dog.” When in action, the gleeful, bounding pups are rendered in strokes of genius, as in “Competition Dogs,” a small work with several dogs leaping in midair.
Poulin Alvarez is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, UCSB and Whitecliffe College in New Zealand. Her expertise and continued practice ensure that these whimsical paintings are skillfully and thoughtfully rendered. A Poulin Alvarez painting typically entrances us with brilliant color to feast our eyes upon. Several works in this show are situated on Jalama Beach, rendered in blue and gold, and contrasted with the black and white of Jack. Jack also brings out the glow of poppies, of green grass, and flowers against a fence.
Art lovers and dog lovers alike will not want to miss “Canine Companions.” It runs through November 24, with an artist reception held on November 17.
Several of the works in the main galleries seem to have a certain pensive outlook. It may be that the month of November acts as an augury, suggesting the ending of another year, and a time for reflection. Rich color acts as a “dying glow.” George Kreutz’s “Bountiful Harvest” is a close-up of beckoning capsicum, painted in jewel tones. Michael Corob mysteriously names his still-life “The Glow,” and includes his signature symbolic doves.
Kathy Badrak’s “Dream Within” is a carved gourd with a window, curtained by a dream catcher. Claudette Carlton’s “The Sentinel” depicts what might be Jerusalem's skyline, silhouetted by a red and orange sky. Linda Gooch’s paintings of La Purisima Mission interiors depict a shadowy but glowing sacred space.
And, as it is November, it is not too early to begin your holiday shopping. The Cypress Gallery is the best gift store in town. Cards, glassware, mosaics, journals, magnets, jewellery and small works of art are hand crafted. Among her many other works of decorative art, glass artist Joellen Chrones has put together charming sets of jewellery, made with with small beads and dangling charms. Beverly Messenger-Harte offers her artfully arranged photographic still-life. The delightful variety of art is endless. Experience it at the Cypress Gallery. Purchase it and you can take it home!
All photos by Bill Morson