This month, a new Arts Benicia exhibit explores complex and nuanced relationships between people and plants, called In the Fields: Botanical Lore. The exhibit information narrative says that, “artists have been creating botanical lore for centuries, inspired by the forms, colors, myths, metaphors, science, and symbolism of plants. Artists working in all media are invited to share their botanical expressions and depictions.”
Lisa Quintero, Exhibitions and Public Program Manager for Arts Benicia, says they wanted participants to express the importance of plants and plant life in their artistic practices. She says, “For many, it’s a natural pairing; a partnership of sorts. The most obvious example is plein air painting and still life painting, but artists also are inspired by homesteading and growing their own food, by ocean plants, by forests, by floral scents, and microscopic plants.”
Kimberly McCarthy From Winter To Spring |
Each artist shares their unique lens through photographs, drawings, book art, paintings and sculptures in multiple mediums and video installations. One living sculpture depends on gallery visitors to keep the moss misted and alive. Every piece invites viewers to ponder and explore their own relationships with plants.
Steve Donegan
Cadmium Blue Hand |
This exhibit is jurored by Jennifer Perlmutter, and sponsored by Perfect Purée, Law Offices of Dana Dean, Benicia Cat Clinic and Ruszel Woodworks. There will be a members-only preview November 8, 6-7pm, and an opening reception for the public November 10, 6-8pm. Arts Benicia is a community-based nonprofit organization that offers creative workshops, public and educational programs and diverse, relevant artist exhibitions. Gallery hours are Wednesday-Sunday, 12-5pm during exhibitions.
