On my visit to the Studio Around the Corner’s latest exhibit, “Relational Perspectives,” I had the pleasure to meet and speak with the 2 artists exhibiting there. The work of Paul DeRuvo is to the left. Photographs by J Dice are on the right. You will also find a book by J on a lecturn near the door.
With limited knowledge of printmaking, I learned a great deal on the subject as Paul explained the processes of etching, aquatint, and lithography. Unless you have good knowledge of this form of printing, definitely do some research beforehand. It will make the experience of viewing these works much more interesting.
Paul spoke less about his subject matter than the process. His love of creating art in this way was thoroughly engaging. It has been a passion for him since he was very young. These works are stunningly contrasted with rich blacks, soft grays tones, white, and texture.
His enthusiasm for this process is in the uniqueness of each print. It is this way of creating art that sent him to study art more seriously. And it shows.
Different from other forms of printing, the processes used to create these images are done by hand and controlled by the artist. Although the same plate, paint, and general process may be used, the artist makes decisions along the way that distinguish one print from the next. It’s the inconsistency Paul finds interesting and inspiring. In other words, the process is not separate from the art, it is an equal partner of the art.
While Paul’s work seemed more about the physical work itself and enthusiasm for the process, J Dice’s work has a more spiritual message in mind. The entire exhibit revolves around a book J wrote describing a community of people who are beginning to understand about themselves and becoming comfortable with who they are. The book is not only a directory of terms, but contains stories of people J has come to know and then photograph.
The photos are of J’s community, their stories, journeys through discovering their place in the world as well as dealing with life and the perceived notions and attitudes from others outside their community. In an effort to include the viewer into this journey, J adhered small objects—objects from personal collections—to the photos. “From my home to your eyes. You become a part of who I am.”
While the works of these 2 artists are very different, what began to emerge as a theme for this particular show, was community. A sense that people of like minds working together can create an environment where all learn. A sharing of thoughts and ideas. As I made my way through the works and spoke with the artists themselves, it was as much about community as it was about art. In Paul’s case, the expensive equipment and common work space used to shape these works enables artists from all around to work together and share ideas as well as instruments. In J’s case, the book, photos, and objects are all symbols of a desire to be who they are as well as a gesture in the direction of inclusion.
Stefani Gosselink teaches piano in Brewster, NY. She is the author of several books, and has written several articles on art and local artists in the area.
Click here to check out other articles on art, performance, and music here or StefaniGosselink.com.
Here is a links to Paul DeRuvo's Instagram page. Here are links to J Dice's Instagram page.
The Cultural Arts Coalition manages Studio Around the Corner located at 67 Main Street, Suite 101, Brewster, NY 10509. For more information visit www.CulturalArtsCo.com, call (845) 363-8330 or email info@CulturalArtsCo.com
Keep in the loop! Click here to sign up Brewster HamletHub's free Nightly Newsletter, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.