Joint Art Exhibition by Jodiann Strmiska and Jessica Hughes

Human nature and the gamut of emotions that are inherently part of the human experience are powerfully and beautifully expressed in "Forging a Work of One's Own,"  the next exhibition to open at New Canaan Library's Curtis Gallery. The exhibition runs from November 3 through December 31, 2016. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, November 3 at 6 p.m. in the Curtis Gallery; all are welcome to attend.

Though distinct from each other visually and in medium, Strmiska and Hughes create a cohesive exhibition that merges through the inspirations behind their work.

"My work focuses on a self-made, highly personal visual language," says Hughes.  As one who struggled with auditory processing disorder from an early age, Hughes' vibrant abstracts are busy and alive with movement, reflecting what might have been her earlier experience with communication.

I have an affinity for working with organic shapes that echo those found in nature and find a sensual, tactile satisfaction in drawing from a model I have made from fabric and other fibers, " states Strmiska. Her graphite drawings of bunny heads from her Dyad series, with their crudely stitched craniums and floppy ears, symbolize the psyche and the essential vulnerability of human nature and also touch upon her interest in the relationship between the artist and the model.

"Forging a Work of One's Own" is sponsored by the Art Committee of New Canaan Library, and is curated by Sveinn Bragason and Greg Welz. For additional information please contact Christle Chumney at 203.594.5075 or visit newcanaanlibrary.org.