Immigration Issue Exhibit

Art can serve as more than a way to decorate your walls or express personal emotions…it can also serve to address important social and political issues and create a positive forum for discussion and exchange of ideas.  That’s why I’m proud to have 2 pieces in the IMMIGRATION ISSUE group art exhibit at Nails in the Wall Gallery in Metuchen, NJ opening this Saturday afternoon, 2-5pm (1/25/14).  Here’s all the details about this important show:

The Immigration Issue THEN & NOW will open at Nails in the Wall, the Gallery at St. Luke’s, 17 Oak Ave., SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2-5PM with a reception for artists.  It is free and open to the public.

Art works using many media and styles by artists from all over the country reflect on this ethical moral issue, a major justice concern of our day.  Spearheading the 150^th Anniversary celebration of the founding of St. Luke’s Church, this exhibit calls us to acknowledge that we have always been and continue to be a nation of immigrants….and what that means emotionally and psychically.

According to Gallery Director, Linda Vonderschmidt-LaStella, “I believe visitors to this exhibit will find themselves entering the gallery and catching their breath.  The images are so powerful and speak to the issue from so many and varied perspectives.  These are works that truly touch the heart.”

The Immigration Issue art exhibit flyer

Among the most poignant, is a series of sculptures by NJ artist Robert Lach.   His “Nestboxes” make use of antique suitcases hollowed out and supporting nest-like elements.  Like Lach’s sculptures, WV artist Victoria Pendragon’s collage connects strongly to the broad mythic experience of the immigrant as does the work of NJ artist Thelma Fried, FL artist Beau Wild and Allison Merriweather, who makes her home in Houston, TX.

The largest element in the show is a 10′ long print “Family Homestead” by the Chicago, IL artist Audrius  V. Plioplys., created from a photograph of the Plioplys family farmhouses in Lithuania.  His story of his family’s escape from persecution is woven in web-like fashion into the work, reflecting what was preserved…and what was lost.

Like Plioplys, many artists created work that connected directly with their family’s experiences of immigration:  NJ artists Lydia Congiu, Cornelia Dohse-Peck, Ellis Eisner, Lisa G. Westheimer, Roberta Rose, and NM artist Diego Rios.

Exploring additional aspects of the concept is the work by NJ artist Lauren Curtis, AK artist Jeannie Stone, and two Maryland artists Erich March and Johan Lowie. Refreshments for the Opening will be provided by our “Art Partner” the Metuchen Inn, and live music by Metuchen musician Steve Kaplan will add to the celebratory experience.

The exhibit continues through May 31, with the gallery open daily.  Check the website:  www.stlukesmetuchen.org/nails-in-the-wall.php  for times and for the two additional programs connected with this exhibit.