The square, with its equal sides and angles, may seem the most rigid of the quadrilaterals, but within the confines of this elemental shape the creative possibilities are boundless. For proof of that, just take a 90-degree turn into Gallery 621 this month, as it hosts its popular holiday exhibit, The Perfect Square.
The gallery’s third-annual Perfect Square exhibit showcases 55 works, all 12 x 12 inches in size and created by the gallery’s 11 artist members in a variety of media, including oil painting, pastels, acrylics, ceramics, mixed media, and collage. Another unique aspect of this event, all the work is priced at $250, and the purchased pieces can be taken at the time of sale.
Painting by Margorie Lutz |
“We get excited putting on this exhibit,” said Linda Stevenson Dunlop, an artist who has been with the gallery almost since the beginning. “It's the artists’ favorite show, as it's a way of thanking our clients and enticing new patrons to purchase a piece.”
Painting by Stephen Schumm |
One of the most enduring membership-run galleries in Benicia, Gallery 621 opened a decade ago—just up the street at 621, before settling into its current residence at 309 First Street. The gallery’s focus is original, contemporary fine art of various media, from painting and printmaking to 3D ceramic sculpture. “The artists are very professional and supportive of each other and create work that pushes the envelope,” according to Dunlop. “Everybody is putting their heart and soul into it, and that’s what art is about.” She added that Benicia is a nurturing community where “there’s a place for everybody in the arts. Everyone’s finding their voice. It feels good here.”
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Nikki Basch Davis |
Running from November 1 through December 30, The Perfect Square exhibit is timed just right for those holiday shoppers who would like to give someone an original work of art. A reception for the exhibit is slated for Saturday, November 10, from 3 to 6, and a special holiday reception will be held Saturday, December 8, also 3 to 6.
Visit Gallery 621 at 309 First Street, in Benicia, during its new hours, 12 to 6 Thursday to Sunday. More information is online at www.gallery621.com, and you can call the gallery at 707-297-6860 or email g621crew@gmail.com.
