QUINCY — Quincy Art Center is keeping busy this summer, with a river-themed exhibit running into early August and a call for artists and collectors to contribute to an upcoming exhibit exploring our connections to art, according to the center.
As part of the “Wonder and Praise: Sun Smith-Foret — Sculpture, Painting, SilverScreen Quilts, Roverwork Project” exhibit, a panel discussion from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday will feature its creator, Smith-Foret, and local and regional Riverwork Project contributors.
In the project, artists have joined more than 70 people who live along rivers and who have contributed to more than 300 feet of irregularly shaped quilts now adorning the gallery’s walls.
The Quincy-Hannibal Riverwork Project Panel features the work of participants from Quincy and Payson in Illinois and Hannibal, Missouri.
The project explores the “profound connection between humanity and water resources through intricate imagery and evocative text,” according to curator Jennifer Teter.
Sculpted vessels and painting by Smith-Foret are displayed alongside the quilts.
Panelists include Penelope Schmidt of Alton, a curator, collector, eco-art activist, Audubon Society board member and former New York City art gallery owner; Laura Strand of Worden, a professor, textile art chair and gallery director at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, textile artist and Riverwork Project artist; and Libby Reuter of Alton, an eco artist, author and lecturer on Watershed Cairns, a 10-year effort to mark and photograph the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio and Allegheny rivers.
The “Wonder and Praise” exhibit runs through Aug. 3. Exhibit hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
Following on the heels of that exhibit will be “Connections,” in which collectors and artists of all mediums are invited to submit works for display, according to the art center.
In an effort to “enrich the viewer’s experience and deepen the connection between the artist or collector and the audience,” those submitting art will be asked to provide a written statement or story about the piece and what about it says “connections” to the person providing it.
The intent is that the personal insights into the pieces will “help convey the inspiration and meaning behind each piece, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation.”
Submitted artwork should be delivered Aug. 7-10. An opening reception will be at 7 p.m. Aug. 23 and the exhibit will run through Oct. 26.
Quincy Art Center is at 1515 Jersey St.
