Icons of Place

Childs + Clark Gallery in Great Barrington presents “Icons of Place”, works in paint and glass by painters Richard Britell and Jessica Hess and glass artist Dan Alexander. The show opens with an Artists Talk, Thursday, July 16 from 5-6:30pm. Please also join us for a Reception for the Artists, Friday, July 17th from 5-7pm. All are welcome. Light refreshments as always.

Painter, musician, curator, teacher, writer—call him Renaissance Man. Well known Berkshire artist Richard Britell is known to paint in several distinct styles, landscape, portraiture, architectural. Icons of Place focuses on his exacting yet painterly works depicting iconic New York City architecture. Primarily focusing on architectural details, the paintings identify areas of interest found within the greater structure. Subway station tiles included.

Utilizing classical painting techniques, Jessica Hess interrupts her landscapes with digital aesthetics. The alternative reality created in the works examines censorship, free speech and the pervasiveness of technology in everyday life. The tightly rendered paintings offer a hyperbolic and perfected version of the scene that extends beyond its reality - flora springs from barren land, idyllic clouds sway across blue skies, the environment takes on a deeper saturation and pixels obscure graffiti. The inclusion of pixelization within the work emphasizes the artist’s intervention within the scene while also asking the viewer to question “What is reality?”

Dan Alexander is a renowned glass artist whose career spans nearly two decades. His journey in the world of glass art began in his home state of Ohio, where he first witnessed a glass blowing demonstration that ignited his passion for the medium. Since 2016, Alexander has focused on establishing himself as an independent artist, creating a diverse body of work that ranges from large, patterned vases to small, intricate flowers. His artistic philosophy centers on challenging himself and pushing the boundaries of his craft. Alexander’s work is inspired by nature, textiles, travel, historical objects, and architecture, with a particular focus on patterns.

“Icons of Place”, July 17 through August 16th. Childs + Clark Gallery, 684 Main Street, Unit 1, Gt. Barrington, MA. Reception for the Artists, Friday, July 17th from 5-7pm. Refreshments as always, all are welcome. For more information visit ChildsandClarkGallery.com or call 413-645-3450