ELORA – Assembled in the Minarovich Gallery at The Elora Centre for the Arts, the work of award winning artists Chris Ahlers, David Brown and Laurie Skantzos calls the viewer’s attention and requests their presence.
The works, called Gesture and Geometry: Navigating the threshold between observation and abstraction will be in the gallery until Feb. 17.
“Gesture and Geometry features the work of three abstract painters,” said Dawn Owen, curator at Guelph Museums in an essay.
“They share a mode of expression and have parallel interests in materiality and process, as well as techniques.
“This exhibition marks the first instance in which the paintings of Ahlers, Brown, and Skantzos share physical space, where the distinctions in their practices supersede the similarities.
She continued saying, “This show is perhaps one of the most beautiful that I’ve experienced at ECFTA – an incredible array of colour, shape and texture – large open canvasses that attract the eye and hold your attention.
“This exhibition is a fabulous promotion for the power of creativity and collaboration.”
Guelph artist Chris Ahlers’ acrylic and mixed media paintings employ geometric and geomorphic abstraction, colour play and the exploration of materials to invite interpretation both as scenes and surfaces.
Toronto based artist David Brown’s abstract encaustic paintings utilize beeswax, oil, and spray paint to construct a multi-layered, multi-sensory experience.
Guelph artist Laurie Skantzos’ process driven painting is largely inspired by the interactions of colour, shape and application. She works with oil and cold wax medium, layering shapes upon shapes, adding richness and textures to the surface.
