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A new art show at Art First opens Date published: 4/30/2009
BY DAVE SMALLEY There's something about this show that stands out. To be sure, there's a plethora of brilliant, inspiring images--paintings in pastel, oil or gold-leaf patina, all the way to wire sculptures. But that's only part of the story. What's particularly nice about the new show at Art First is the juxtaposition of styles and visions between the two artists, Patte Ormsby and Helen Butler. At first glance, there seems to be little connection between the two--Ormsby's work here rooted in the übercool abstract, Butler's more in realism and evocative landscapes. And, truth be told, there needn't always be a "connecting theme" between two artists showing together. Yet there are some understated commonalities in this "New Works" show. Most notably, viewers will see color and texture themes between some of the side- by-side works that serve almost as warm nods of approval between one work and the next. "We got put together and I was so happy because I knew her work would look good," said Butler. "Two different styles that mesh so well, we could hang it together--it works." There is something for everyone in this show of top-caliber artists at the top of their game. And, since human beings are not one-dimensional, it's quite likely one will move between the different works with an equal appreciation. Certainly the artists have poured--sometimes literally--themselves into the work. Ormsby's pieces, for instance, can take weeks to complete, due to the multiple layers of oil glazes, patina, spray paint and more, often on surfaces like aluminum. "There's no easy button," laughed Ormsby. "There are probably 20 to 30 layers of stuff" on some of her works, including "Shelter From the Storm," a compelling vertical piece with an evolution of color from copper in the lower section to aqua at the top. While that piece abstractly takes the viewer to a thundering sky and small safe spot in the ground, Butler's "Vermont Farm," shown above, transports one instantly to a more peaceful place. A black-and-white page cannot do justice to the rich hues and depth of field in this pastoral piece. It must be seen with the naked eye. "I love depth in a landscape painting," said Butler. She achieves that in all of her works on display here. Likewise, via totally different media, Ormsby magically hits home. There are so many works it's hard to single out just a few, but certainly "Copper Wood," above, is noteworthy. Aqua, deep blue, purple and her trademark copper become woods at once lonely and yet inviting--like no woods you've seen before, and still reminiscent of the warmest trees you've ever seen. And, more connections: Butler's wonderful "Road to Jan's Cabin" shows a road passing lazily, beautifully, through very different kinds of trees.
Read more stories about Fredericksburg Date published: 4/30/2009
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