It has been two years since I joined the community of resident artists at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. What was once a weapons manufacturing facility was transformed into an arts center 50 years ago, and it remains open to the public nearly every day of the year. The center showcases a variety of works by artists from different backgrounds across many mediums. One of the most interesting aspects of working here is that the artist studios are designed with glass windows, allowing for a unique sense of openness. From my studio, for instance, I can see into the studios of three other artists while still enjoying a stunning view of the Potomac River.
This environment has profoundly influenced my paintings. I often feel the presence of others in my work, as if their shadows fall over me while I paint. It gives me a shifting sense of authorship and ownership of the pieces I create. It reminds me of the masquerades from my village, where the stage and the crowds constantly shift as they cheer on the dancing masquerade, which occasionally turns and chases them back.
It was here, at the Torpedo Factory, that I met Charlene Nield, and we came up with the idea to collaborate on paintings. Her expressionistic works, filled with joyful dashes of color and faceless portraits, contrast with my own pieces that depict intertwining, unrestrained figures with bold, dark lines. We began collaborating by exchanging paintings between our studios, each of us adding to or reworking what the other had started. Sometimes it feels like we are erasing each other’s memories, but at other times, I am thrilled by the new color palettes or textures she introduces.
Our collaborative paintings have been shown at the Touchstone Gallery in Washington, DC, and now, 6 of the paintings will be featured in an exhibition at the Spilsbury Gallery as part of the season’s opening at the Arts Club of Washington. We would love for you to join us this Friday, October 4, from 5-7pm, for the opening reception. The exhibition is open to the public, but registration is required. The Arts Club is located at 2017 I St NW, Washington, DC. Please use this link to RSVP with the Club - https://artsclubofwashington.org/events/details/?event_id=5869665.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
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