“Mask Off” by Linda S. Fitz Gibbon. (Courtesy)
YoloArts’ The Barn Gallery in Woodland is set to unveil a new group show titled “Artists in Critique” on Nov. 16.
Using the language of critique, the artists, who hail mostly from Sacramento and the Bay Area region, met once a month to present their artwork and receive feedback. The monthly meetings provided not only validation of their artistic endeavors but also allowed for accountability and increased motivation.
“These artists meet monthly to support one another and expand their creativity, resulting in a provocative and accomplished collection of work that clearly reveals the driving passions and skill of each artist,” said Janice Purnell, YoloArts creative director, in a press release.
The artists featured in the show, and members of the critique group, are: Joy Bertinuson, Linda S. Fitz Gibbon, Ianna Nova Frisby, Anne Gregory, Lisa Jetonne, Jennifer Kim Sohn and Susan Silvester.
Artworks include painting, pen and ink, ceramics, mixed media, assemblage, sculpture, and installation art. A wide variety of themes range from the environment, social justice, and gender stereotypes to geological wonderment and nature.
According to the press release, the critique group was also developed as a way to counteract the isolation that can be experienced by professional creatives.
“Creating art can be a lonely endeavor at times, and having a community that understands the challenges and triumphs of being an artist is invaluable,” Silvester said. “The group consists of artists with various backgrounds and styles which bring a diverse range of perspectives. The diversity has broadened my horizons.”
In addition to the artwork in this exhibition, “The Art Advice Booth” will be open in The Barn Gallery on select Saturdays during the show’s run. Modeled after the Lucy’s Psychiatric Help booth in the Peanuts comic strip, “The Art Advice Booth” was created in 2015 by artists Gioia Fonda and Ianna Frisby and has since become a nomadic community resource for artists and communities.
“’The Art Advice Booth’ was created to provide a safe space for visitors to feel free to ask artists questions about art and although it had its beginnings as a cheeky way to begin conversing about art, we have actually provided needed advice to many of our visitors, so it does feel like we’ve saved a few souls by the end of the shift!” Frisby enthused.
An opening reception with the artists in attendance is scheduled for Nov. 16 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments and Yolo County wine will be available with music provided by Jon Spivack. At 6 p.m. each artist will talk briefly about their work.
“Artists in Critique” continues at The Barn Gallery through Feb. 24, 2024.
The artwork can also be viewed (and purchased) online at yoloarts.org/online-galleries.
