The month of May in Upstate New York is bustling with exciting art exhibitions that celebrate the beauty of springtime. From Hudson to Kingston, various galleries are showcasing a diverse range of artworks that captivate the senses and ignite the imagination.
At Hudson Hall and Front Room Gallery in Hudson, visitors can explore the richly hued photographs of Wolfgang Tillmans and the powerful train photos by Steven Mallon, respectively. Tillmans’ images capture everyday objects in a poetic light, while Mallon’s photos of trains evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. The juxtaposition of these two artists’ works offers a unique perspective on the passage of time and the beauty found in unexpected places.
Over at Opus 40 in Saugerties, Bruce Cahn’s bold and bright sacred geometries in gouache invite viewers to delve into the artist’s esoteric world. His intricate mandalas and geometric patterns exude a sense of harmony and balance, drawing the eye into a mesmerizing dance of shapes and colors.
In Germantown, Mendes Wood DM is hosting Peter Shear’s abstract adventures in oil paint. Shear’s paintings are a celebration of the medium itself, with each brushstroke and color choice adding to the overall composition. His works invite viewers to lose themselves in the dreamlike trance of abstract art and appreciate the boundless creativity of the human mind.
At the River Valley Arts Collective in Boiceville, Nicki Green’s ceramic sculptures take center stage in her solo show “Fruitful Vine.” Green’s works explore themes of identity and heritage, with each piece telling a unique story of transformation and growth. Her use of clay and glaze creates dynamic textures and forms that speak to the enduring power of nature and the human spirit.
Meanwhile, the Ruth and Elmer Wellin Museum of Art at Hamilton College in Clinton is showcasing an exhibition titled “Menagerie: Animals in Art.” This diverse collection of artworks features depictions of animals in various media, from ancient artifacts to contemporary paintings. Artists like Francisco de Goya and Shahzia Sikander are represented, offering a rich tapestry of animal imagery that spans centuries and cultures.
In Kingston, Green Kill is hosting Joanna Grabiarz’s solo show, featuring a series of etchings that blur the line between fantasy and reality. Grabiarz’s whimsical creatures and surreal landscapes invite viewers to step into a world where anything is possible and imagination knows no bounds.
Overall, the art scene in Upstate New York is alive and thriving this May, offering a feast for the eyes and a balm for the soul. Whether you’re a fan of photography, painting, sculpture, or ceramics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the vibrant art community of the region. So take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of Upstate New York’s spring art scene.
