Show Preview | Small Works Show

Kirkland, WA
Howard/Mandville Gallery, October 18-November 2

Craig Kosak, Raven and Butterfly, oil, 12 x 12.

This story was featured in the October 2014 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art October 2014 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story!

Howard/Mandville Gallery continues a popular tradition with the presentation of its annual Small Works Show this month. The event kicks off with an opening reception for the artists from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on October 18. Over the years the show has become well known among collectors because it features reasonably priced smaller works by nationally recognized painters.

This year’s invitational brings together more than 90 artists from across the country. “I am very excited about the show,” says gallery owner Pat Howard. “We have changed the format from a sale by draw to first-come-first-served on opening night, and we’ve invited quite a few new artists as well as our usual outstanding roster. With over 200 paintings, there will be a treasure trove of little gems for every collector’s taste.”

Indeed, the presentation includes works ranging from classic figurative paintings by Mary Qian to atmospheric landscapes by Richard McKinley. Colorado-based figurative artist Dean Buhler says it’s an honor to join a cadre of so many impressive artists. This is Buhler’s first year as a participant, and his painting THE BARD is featured in the show. The work is part of a recent series in which the artist wants to capture an “old-world feel” in his portraits. “THE BARD is a perfect addition to the series because the model has a wry expression that is Shakespearean, hence the title,” Buhler says. “I also was fascinated with the shadows, particularly how the right side fades into shadow, and with the placement of the face, which is close to the left-hand side of the painting.”

Jhenna Quinn Lewis is known for her delicate, minimalist still lifes that often include birds. MOMENTARY RESPITE, on view in the show, is a quintessential Lewis work. The painting depicts a single hummingbird along with two toy blocks. For Lewis, hummingbirds are similar to children. “They are always flitting and darting about,” she says. “It’s rare to catch one being still. For me, depicting birds is a way to make a statement about protecting the environment and the creatures that live on this earth.” —Bonnie Gangelhoff

contact information
800.544.4712
www.howardmandville.com

Featured in the October 2014 issue of Southwest Art magazine–click below to purchase:
Southwest Art October 2014 print issue or digital download Or subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss a story!