by Elizabeth Monks Hack
Our community is in for a treat this month. Any “June gloom” that most certainly lies ahead will be immediately dispersed by “To Bamboo...An Homage” at the Cypress Gallery. Lompoc Valley Art Association artists Beverly Messenger-Harte and Carol Wood have created an immersive show that focuses on the subject of bamboo, a time-honored theme of art. The warmth and color of bamboo infuses their pieces, as it bathes the gallery in a golden light.
The two artists have partnered their distinct styles and creative energies, putting together a cohesive exhibition that is exceptional. The work of Messenger-Harte consists of three-dimensional assemblage wall pieces, organized into highly structured compositions with a metaphysical theme. Wood is an expressionist painter, whose dynamic brushstrokes and collage elements find unity and strength in asymmetrical balance.
The art of Beverly Messenger-Harte evolved from a life-long emotional attachment to bamboo, to its leaves, its nodes, its colors, its sound. Her pieces are exquisitely crafted. They incorporate carefully selected bamboo “culms,” as well as collected treasures, crystals and mirrors. A patina is added to attached, hand-cut copper pieces. These are artworks made to inspire meditation. They can also be commanding, such as the magnificent three foot octagonal Ba-gua mirror entitled “A Portal of Balance and Harmony.”
Carol Wood has been immersed in art throughout her life. To categorize her as “a painter” is somewhat misleading. Not only does she work with oils and acrylic, but on display in this show are works of pastel, collage, ceramics, and printmaking. Wood has a particular love of Japanese design and textiles, and has over the years amassed a large body of work with this theme.
Bamboo as a metaphor is revered in the arts of Asia. Its resilience and adaptability embodies spiritual meaning. Bamboo can “bend, but not break.” Throughout the gallery Wood has more than two dozen small collage-paintings of bamboo that exemplify this concept. Full of energy and imagination these images dazzle, in color, composition and variety. Whimsy is plentiful as well, found especially in the painting of a panda entitled “Lovin’ My Bamboo.” Don’t miss this intimate and exhilarating show. Meet the artists at their reception on Sunday, June 8, 1:00 – 3:00 pm.
Throughout the main galleries are works of artistic intelligence and charm. Three paintings by Lee Hill are a case in point. Hill has many preferred subjects, but his paintings of animals are particularly touching. “This is Water Son,” of a mother bear with her cub is sincerely felt.
The watercolors of Diane Atturio are always strong, but she has outdone herself with this month’s “Yucca Bloom.” It is simply painted, emphasizing the mathematical order of its powerful geometry. Another flower in this month’s show is Valerie De Mille’s “Bleeding Rose,” an intense statement that calls out violence against women. Up close the work is fragmented with collage elements and angry words, but from a distance the bleeding rose itself comes into focus.
The Cypress Gallery is supported by the Lompoc Valley Art Association and its members. This valuable asset to our community, however, cannot function without your support! Please visit us, add some art to your home, or give art as a gift. Support us by taking a class. Consider our unique gift shop a first stop when you need a special something for someone. Deborah Breedon’s exquisite pastels are now available as prints, as are many paintings by gallery artists. Glassware, jewelry, journals, ceramics and cards are to be found here.
Bring a friend, tell a friend, buy from a local. Bask in the glow of art, this month and every month!
The Cypress Gallery is a 501c(3) non-profit organization operated by the members of the Lompoc Valley Art Association, committed to supporting and expanding access to the arts in Lompoc and the Santa Ynez Valley. Open Thursday – Sunday, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm. 119 E. Cypress Ave., Lompoc, (805) 737-1129 <lompocart.org> @cypressgallerylompoc
CAPTIONS
Beverly Messenger-Harte “A Portal of Balance and Harmony” Mixed media
Carol Wood “Lovin’ My Bamboo” Mixed media
Lee Hill “This is Water Son” Acrylic
Diane Atturio “Yucca Bloom” Watercolor
Valerie De Mille “Bleeding Rose” Mixed media