MIDDLEBURY — Edgewater Gallery on the Green presents its first group exhibition, “Of The Land,” on view for the month of October. This show features six Vermont artists representing a range of mediums. Jessie Stark, of Edgewater, described the artists who are to be featured: “There’s Julia Purinton with her romantic landscape paintings; Tom Marrinson working with clay from the earth to create vividly colored sculptures; Sabra Field whose work tells the story of the land and life within; Tom Dunne, manipulating woods of Vermont into stunning vessels; Gary Hall who focuses his lens on his surroundings and capturing the drama that lies within the shadows and light; and Jen Violette whose mixed media sculptures of glass, wood and metal explores all the riches that come from working it.”
“A group show provides an opportunity for additional interest and tension,” said Kate Smith, of Edgewater Gallery on the Falls (this show draws from artist who regularly exhibit at both Edgewater locations in Middlebury). “Each artist’s impulse, process and result is unique, of course, and so an exhibit of works from several artists has the potential to be especially exciting; portrayals of similar subject matter through each artist’s differing focus, technique and medium create a fun contrast. Including three-dimensional works adds to the tangible nature of the subject, and to the exhibit itself.”
The theme came about organically, as Stark explained: “For this particular group show the title really evolved from the artists we wanted to feature instead of from a particular theme that we had in mind beforehand. Once we knew what group we had in mind, a common theme came through, the interpretation of the land through the eyes of Vermont artists.”
Of course, this time of the year the changing season brings the land to the forefront of many of our imaginations. “‘Of the Land’ seemed an appropriate way to celebrate the seasonal harvest and the gratitude we feel,” reflected Smith. “Artists find inspiration in the dynamic beauty of the Vermont landscape, both in its natural state and when it is being worked.”
Each of these artists use vastly different media, and draw from a broad array of inspirations. When asked how “Of The Land” connects to their work, it is clear that the respect and admiration for Vermont’s landscape has united them here, not just physically, but through the art they create.