May 13 – June 24
Opening Reception June 7, 6:30-9pm
Ron Hicks, Juror

Faces, forms, movement, and life find their way onto The Art Center’s walls in this exhibition focusing on the portrayal of the figure. Join The Art Center on June 7 for the Biennial Contemporary Exhibition, juried by nationally recognized artist and former Art Center exhibitor Ron Hicks. Hicks’ appreciation and knowledge of a wide array of figurative works varying in style, medium, and portrayal of the subject matter are  evident in his selection. Of over 450 submitted works, 61 were selected for this exhibition showcasing 43 artists from across the nation. Photography, realism, impressionism, oil paintings, and abstract works will be represented.

Hicks’ work can be described as the seamless fusion between abstraction and realism reminiscent of academic impressionist paintings of the 19th century, yet communicating strong contemporary content. The rendering of figures in their moments of intimacy seem frozen in time, giving the viewer a stolen glimpse of romantic encounters, which are often overlooked. His poetic brush strokes marrying the layers of crisp colors and muted grey tones enhance the dramatic atmospheres in the scenes.

‘Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is painting that speaks.”
̴Plutarch