 "RETROSPECTIVE" The Addison Center for the Arts proudly presented its featured Arts DuPage Month artist Annette Perone Leiber and her solo exhibit “Retrospective”. Her gorgeous artworks were on display at the Addison Center for the Arts Gallery from October 9 through November 9, 2024. The highlight of the exhibit was the opening reception on October 11. All the proceeds from the sale of Leiber's art will be donated in her name for scholarships for students at Addison Trail High School, continuing their education in one or more of the arts, including music, theater, and visual arts. The founder of numerous artist groups, including the Addison Center for the Arts, the award-winning professional artist and educator, Annette Perone Leiber has been fascinated by exploring all dimensions of artistic expression. The artist says, “I have spent most of my life experimenting with all media. The world we see affords an ever-changing subject from which to draw inspiration.” Leiber’s desire to discover not only the amazing world around her but its hidden mysteries led her to begin research, using an electron microscope. Observing the objects through the microscope's lenses opened a new world to her, full of intricacy and captivating details that later on were reflected in the artist’s paintings. In her art, Leiber incorporates the “trapped air” imagery and strives to have others view these mysteries as she does, by using their imagination and perception. She also embraces contemporary techniques, while combining concepts, materials, and images from many sources to unveil the beauty of the invisible world and share it with us through her exquisite art. Annette Perone Leiber's work has graced many private, civic, and corporate collections across the United States and abroad. 
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 "OUR WONDERFUL WORLD" The Addison Center for the Arts presented “Our Wonderful World”, a solo exhibition by Iryna Shkrobach. It ran from September 4 through October 5, 2024, with the opening reception on September 6. Through the artistry of Iryna in this “Our Wonderful World” exhibition, she took us on a close look at our environment with the use of acrylic and oil on canvas that pop with color. Not only does Iryna paint the landscapes of our communities but tries to show in vivid color through abstract and pop art, that there is much hidden, surprise, and wonder in a lot of things we take for granted around us. She is very aware that things are not all as we would like them to be. There is plenty of suffering going on, due to wars, which she has tried to capture from a female’s perspective in her artwork of her previous homeland in Ukraine. The colors she uses to describe the war scenes vary dramatically from the majority of her art.  Born in Ivano-Frankivsvk, Ukraine, and completed her PhD in Education, Iryna taught mathematics and science in high school and college. In 1997, she immigrated to the USA and enjoyed employment in security, real estate, and nursing fields until her retirement in 2015 when she went from part-time to full-time painting. Iryna has become proficient in capturing the intricacies of the landscapes of the various places she has visited in both Europe, West, and Midwest regions of the USA. Her daily inspiration, motivation, and innovation for her paintings come from her year-round hiking, golfing, fishing, and swimming adventures. Since February 24, 2022, the first day of the Russian army invasion of Ukraine, she has devoted significant time to painting scenes of the daily life in Ukraine where she still has immediate family and a home. Iryna is a member of the Elk Grove and Arlington Heights Art Guilds. She has had many solo and group exhibitions in local libraries, senior centers, churches, and local commercial galleries.   "ARTISTRY IN WOOD: SCULPTURES FROM THE HEART" The Addison Center for the Arts was delighted to announce its exhibition, "Artistry in Wood: Sculptures from the Heart," a showcase of the art of wood carving. The exhibit ran from May 22 through June 15, 2024, inviting art enthusiasts of all ages to explore the timeless beauty and intricate craftsmanship of wood sculpture. Inspired by the age-old tradition of carving, "Artistry in Wood" celebrated the enduring legacy of this ancient art form, echoing the sentiment of a well-known carving quote: “Carving is an ancient art. There is little that is new. Only things that have been forgotten. And there are no secrets." (Unknown Author) With each stroke of the blade, our talented artisans breathed life into wood, revealing its hidden stories and timeless beauty. The exhibit was proudly presented in collaboration with North Suburban Carvers, a non-profit group of carving enthusiasts founded in the 1970s. Committed to promoting the art of carving and contributing to children's charities, NSC boasts a diverse membership, including professional carvers, beginners, and everyone in between. With a passion for craftsmanship and a dedication to preserving tradition, NSC members represent a rich tapestry of talent and expertise in the art of wood carving. For more information, visit North Suburban Carvers on Facebook. "Woodworkers, furniture builders, lathe turners, and artists of all kinds are drawn to the art of carving," says Paul Gratzke, President of NSC. "Whether they're curious beginners or seasoned professionals, our members share a common love for the craft and a desire to create something beautiful with their hands. 'Artistry in Wood' is a celebration of that passion and creativity, showcasing the diverse styles and talents of our members." The gallery display featured a wide range of carving styles, types of wood, and unique sculptures crafted by NSC members of all ages and skill levels. From intricate relief carvings to whimsical figurines, each piece reflected the heart and soul of its creator, offering a glimpse into the rich experiences that inspired their work. The highlight of the exhibition was the opening reception on Friday, May 24, 2024, from 6 to 8 pm. Guests had the opportunity to meet the talented artisans behind the artwork, gain insights into their creative process, and immerse themselves in the vibrant world of wood sculpture.   THE ADDISON SCHOOL DISTRICT #4 STUDENT ART SHOW The Addison Center for the Arts was excited to announce its annual Addison School District #4 Student Art Show. The exhibition ran from May 1 through May 18, 2024 at the ACA's Gallery. Visitors had a chance to explore over 100 gorgeous mixed-media artworks by creative students from Indian Trail, Lincoln, Stone, Ardmore, Army Trail, Fullerton, and Wesley Schools.   "CHICAGO FREEDOM MOVEMENT: PHOTOGRAPHS BY BERNARD KLEINA" The Addison Center for the Arts was proud to announce the opening of an exhibition featuring the remarkable color photographs of the American Civil Rights movement captured by Bernard Kleina. "Chicago Freedom Movement" was displayed from March 27 to April 27, 2024. During the tumultuous 1960s, when black and white photography dominated, Bernard Kleina broke the mold by documenting pivotal moments of the civil rights movement in vibrant color. His lens captured the passion, determination, and struggle for equality that defined an era. The collection, graciously loaned to the ACA by the Elmhurst Art Museum with the photographer's consent, showcased Kleina's unique perspective as a photographer, equal housing activist, and ally to the civil rights cause. Among the luminaries depicted in Kleina's photographs are iconic figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King, Rep. John Lewis, Mahalia Jackson, and many others who shaped the course of history with their unwavering commitment to justice and equality. On April 19, students from Addison Trail and Willowbrook High Schools were able to engage with Kleina. This experience gave students a historical perspective on the civil rights movement through Kleina’s first hand encounters with prominent leaders. Kleina's journey as a civil rights activist and insights into the struggles for equality in Chicago and Selma inspired and encouraged students to become socially conscious and politically engaged. Bernard J. Kleina's journey as a civil rights activist began in 1965 when he witnessed the brutality of "Bloody Sunday" in Selma, Alabama. Moved to action, Kleina, then a Catholic priest, joined the struggle for voting rights and was arrested for peacefully protesting. Since that pivotal moment, he has dedicated his life to pursuing justice, facing threats, attacks, and adversity with resolve. As the Executive Director of HOPE Fair Housing Center in Wheaton, IL, for over four decades, Kleina has been a leading voice in the fight against housing discrimination. His advocacy extends beyond fair housing to encompass broader social issues, earning him acclaim as "a champion of fair housing and other social concerns." Kleina's impact transcends traditional boundaries. His photography and multimedia presentations serve as powerful tools for education and outreach. His work has been exhibited worldwide, inspiring dialogue and action on civil rights, fair housing, and social justice.   EXPRESSIONS: ART & VERSE 2024 The Addison Center for the Arts was pleased to announce "Expressions: Art & Verse 2024" , our fourth collaboration between Illinois artists and the Illinois State Poetry Society. In February, the ACA hosted the program in which ISPS poets recited ekphrastic poems they’d written about pieces of art. It was an enriching melding of two art forms — poetry and visual art. The art exhibit opened Friday, February 23, 2024 and continued through March 23, 2024. Participating artists displayed original artworks that had inspired a poem by an ISPS poet. ISPS poets juried the prospective artists by choosing their favorite from the candidates’ entry images. The reception was on Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 1 to 4 pm. During this event, the public was invited to enjoy the art exhibit in the gallery and then attend the poetry recital by members of the ISPS in the adjacent studio theater.  In the photo: the members of the Illinois State Poetry Society at the "Expressions: Art & Verse 2024" reception.
 The Addison Center for the Arts was excited to announce "There and Back (and Back Again)," a solo exhibition featuring the mixed media works of Joseph Hladik. Running from January 10 to February 17, 2024, the exhibition included a public artist reception on January 13, 2024, from 6 to 8 pm. Joseph Hladik is known for blending various mediums and styles into evocative art. Trained at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he has showcased his work in numerous solo and group exhibitions, merging traditional techniques with modern concepts. "We are thrilled to host Joseph Hladik's solo exhibition at the Addison Center for the Arts," said Communications Director Julie Mars. "His work exudes a young, tactile, and lighthearted charisma, drawing viewers into a nostalgic reverie." Hladik's solo show, "There and Back (and Back Again)," invited art enthusiasts on an evocative trip down Memory Lane, weaving mementos and emotionally charged ephemera into his sculptures. "As an artist and storyteller, I explore connections between identity, memories, and shared experiences. Nostalgia anchors my work, encouraging nuanced perceptions of the past. I aim to create art that is both familiar and unexpected, challenging our understanding of self," says Hladik. The exhibition featured a captivating collection exploring the intricate relationship between time, memory, and physical objects. Using familiar materials and playful compositions, Hladik invited viewers to reflect on their own experiences and consider nostalgia's role in shaping identity. Joseph Hladik, an artist and educator based in the Chicagoland area, graduated from the University of Missouri and holds a Master of Art in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.   The Addison Art Guild Fall Members’ Exhibition The Addison Center for the Arts presented the Addison Art Guild Fall Members’ Show on display November 9 – December 9, 2023. The artist reception was on Thursday, November 9 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm., when the Best of Show and other prizes were awarded. There were refreshments and a critique by the judge. The reception was free and open to the public. This year’s distinguished judge was Lynne Kornecki, the publisher of ArtBeat, a web magazine devoted to regional art and artists. You can get on the ArtBeat email newsletter online at foxvalleyartbeat.com. The exhibit consisted of artwork from member artists, representing a wide range of art mediums – oils, pastels, acrylics, colored pencil, mixed media, watercolor, and bead mosaic on acrylic convex mirror. “Our members work in a wide variety of styles and themes that should resonate with nearly everybody,” commented AAG founder and president emeritus, Annette Leiber. The Addison Art Guild welcomes new members, visitors and supporters of the visual arts to join. The AAG meets on the second Thursday of the month from September through May at 7:00 p.m. The meeting includes a lecture or demonstration by a professional artist.   Melina Scotte Featured at Addison Center for the Arts in Celebration of Arts DuPage Month The Addison Center for the Arts was proud to unveil a solo exhibition featuring the gracious paintings of Melina Scotte as part of their annual Arts DuPage Month celebration. This exhibition, that was from September 20 to October 28, shined a spotlight on the captivating artworks by renowned painter and muralist, Melina Scotte. The exhibition was highlighted by an artist reception on Saturday, October 7, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, providing an invaluable opportunity to engage with the artist. Julie Mars, the ACA’s director of communications praised Scotte’s work, “Originally from Argentina, Scotte has a true multicultural grasp of how people from around the world have so much in common. Work like hers can bridge cultural differences and unite communities.” The exhibit displayed the artist’s intent to allow viewers to see something from their own perspective and to be able to transmit beauty and imagination through each piece. “I believe that society expresses change in relation to what is around us, and what surrounds us affects what we become. If people surround themselves with beauty and harmony, we as a society will be more inclined to be kind to one another. I am always looking to inspire people to be creative and to look for those things that feed the soul.” Melina Scotte not only serves as an embodiment of individual artistic expression but also stands as a testament to the vibrant arts landscape of the western suburbs of Chicago. The artist reception on October 7th provided an opportunity to engage directly with Melina Scotte, gain insights into her creative process, and explore the inspirations behind her vibrant artworks. Melina Scotte's creations, characterized by gestural brushwork, intricate textures, and glorious color, have garnered her a distinguished position within the art community. Through this dedicated exhibition, we celebrated her contributions to the world of art and culture, aligning seamlessly with the Addison Center for the Arts’ mission to nurture creativity and enhance lives through the arts.   Solo Art Show "Lines and Healing Circles" by Jeanne Garrett at the Addison Center for the Art
The Addison Center for the Arts presented "Lines and Healing Circles," a solo art exhibition by accomplished photographer Jeanne Garrett. This captivating exhibition ran from August 9 to September 9, showcasing an extraordinary collection of mixed-media, semi-abstract works that push the boundaries of traditional photographic technique. The artist reception for "Lines and Healing Circles" took place on August 12, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm. The event provided art enthusiasts, collectors, and the community with the opportunity to meet Jeanne Garrett and engage with her poignant and elegant work. Jeanne Garrett's artistic journey combines her formal studies at Barat College with a self-taught perspective, resulting in a unique approach to photography. Her deep connection to the landscape and environment has been a consistent theme in her work, which has been displayed in museums and galleries across the United States. Garrett's lyrical imagery has garnered recognition and acclaim, featured in publications such as the Daily Herald, Birds and Blooms, and Black & White magazines. Her talent has even captured the attention of prestigious platforms like the BBC and National Geographic. Notably, she was honored as a Merit Award winner in Black and White magazine in both 2021 and 2022. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Jeanne Garrett actively engages in public projects that promote inclusivity and community upliftment. She has made significant contributions to projects such as replacing graffiti with inspiring artwork in her hometown and spearheading a mural project at Chicago Tech Academy, empowering minority low-income students in the pursuit of science, technology, and engineering. With her latest mixed media art project, "Healing Circles," Garrett ventures into the realm of abstract art, exploring the human condition through symbolism and technique. Inspired by personal experiences, including her husband's open-heart surgery and the isolation of the Covid pandemic, she layers gauze, stitching, paper, and found objects onto her photographic foundation. The resulting compositions represent the stages of healing, from chaos to hope, transformation, and acceptance, with the circle symbolizing hope and stitching suggesting surgical sutures while unifying the composition. "Lines and Healing Circles" challenges the conventions of photography, blurring the line between the captured image and artistic transformation. Garrett's abstract creations invite viewers on a visual journey that sparks contemplation and evokes deep emotions. Thanks to everyone who joined us at the Addison Center for the Arts to experience the transformative power of "Lines and Healing Circles" by Jeanne Garrett. This exhibition was a truly immersive and thought-provoking artistic exploration. |
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