Northern Daughters Gallery presents “Winter White” this holiday season. The exhibit features the work of artists Julia Jensen, Matthew Monk, Hannah Morris, Erika Lawlor Schmidt, Hannah Sessions, Pamela Smith, and Susanne Strater and will be exhibited through Jan. 15 at Northern Daughters Gallery in Vergennes, and Jan. 16 to Feb. 28 at the Annex Gallery at Village Wine and Coffee in Shelburne.
“As curators we approached this exhibit from an aesthetic standpoint, with the muted colors of winter putting emphasis on composition and texture of work,” noted Sophie Pickens and Justine Jackson. “And though this element remains compelling within the body of work that has come together through this prompt, there is a sentiment that is threaded through the work as well. Many of the artists referenced their approach to embracing winter, as Vermonters must, and what it has to offer. It is true that in order to enjoy the sometimes nine-month period when snow may fly, it is helpful to follow winter’s lead. To do as winter does.”
As a gallery supporting artists in pursuing their own direction it is rare to offer a group exhibit that asks artists to consider, not only a particular theme, but a specific color palette. 
“NoDa contacted me in the spring with news that the theme of this year’s winter show was to be — white,” said artist Pamela Smith. “Thereafter I started imagining white. But also the introspection and reflection which comes when our earth in Vermont is covered in snow. A quieter and more still time of year. From my imaginings the white paintings came into being reflecting my musings.” 
Artist Hannah Morris explained her process. “I think my work is mostly about prompts to begin with since what I do is piece together new visual stories based on found images. But the prompt of using a mainly white palette was a challenge because it came down to color overlays — of using whites to shape what was quite vivid and multicolored underneath… Making this work felt a bit like the reenactment of winter itself — layering on the whites to give shape to a new visual forms based on what lies beneath it.”
Having seen Hannah Sessions’ winter work before, it came as no surprise that the artist would lovingly move from her rich saturated green fields to the winterscapes. “I relished the opportunity to paint winter scenes,” Sessions said. “Some people say the winter is drab, and though the darkness can be challenging, I in fact love the colors of winter… Winter colors are subtle but so rich and diverse when you really take the time to look… There’s also something fitting about living with a winter painting, reminding us to appreciate a harsh and beautiful season from the comfort of our home and shelter.”
For more information about the exhibit contact [email protected], (802) 877-2173 or visit northerndaughters.com.