12-09-2024 4:56am

Studio B Art Gallery Announces Award Winners in "Glisten"

Lesley Misko Editor

by Jane Stahl

Studio B, 39 E. Philadelphia Ave. in Boyertown, PA, congratulates the award winners in the current art exhibit entitled “Glisten.”Artists submitted work that brings light to life for the holiday gifting season.

Juror for the show is Emily Thiel, programs manager at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. Thiel is a graduate of Kutztown University with a degree in English and a concentration in cultural and media studies. You will find her representing GoggleWorksat local community events and festivals.

“Water Dancer,”Mixed Media by Crystal Domino

Emily appreciated the joy expressed in Crystal's painting. She noted that having part of the bird's wing extending beyond the canvas, the off-center placement of the bird, and the sparkles surrounding the dancers feet attracted her eye. She admitted that birds are a family favorite.

“Moonrise Over 3rd Avenue,”Mixed Media by Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan's humor attracted Emily found in the curmudgeonly gentleman fighting the wind and escaping bananas that, along with his untied shoes, are sure to trip him up. The size of Jim's mixed media illustration created on cardboard featuring old photos of storefronts impressed her.

“Afterwards,” Oil by Mary Ann Mengel

Mary Ann presented a nostalgic, sweet look at ordinary family life enhanced by her rosy color palette, light and shadow, the glistening pink/red color reflected off the shoes of the individuals on their way somewhere. Emily saw life and beauty in this snapshot of faceless people in an everyday moment that made her pause, feeling as if she were walking with them.

“Urban Order,” Photograph by Sharon Merkel

Emily described Sharon Merkel's photograph as "painterly," commenting, "It's hard to believe it's a photograph." Sharon's photograph was awarded a Best in Show Image at the Lehigh Valley Photography Club exhibit in 2024. Emily found visual interest in the contrast of colors, the sharp lines of the building, the angles of light, the stark white lines in the roof and expressed interest in visiting the spot where the photo was taken to fully appreciate Sharon's ability to frame the art in the moment.

“Boats at Rest.”Watercolor by Barbara Post

In the sky's rainbow of color--pinks and blues and purples, the golden warmth of the sun casting shadows, Barbara Post accomplishes a tough assignment in creating a winter scene of boats on the water that feels cozy and warm.

“Dancing Pot A,” Stoneware by Karen Palcho

Emily noted that Karen Palcho's mushroom "looks alive" through the patterns along the edge of the mushroom and the pot on top, creating depth and a contrast of texture.

Awards were sponsored by the Colebrookdale Railroad. Josh Alderfer, Director of Operations, values collaboration with the community’s efforts toward enhancing arts and culture, bringing visitors and influencers from across the country to the Boyertown community.

The show continues through January 26, 2025. Normal gallery hours are Saturday and Sunday 12-2pm or by appointment by contacting Jane 610-563-7879. Learn more about Studio B by visiting the website https://www.studiobbb.org/

Studio B:
Studio B, located in the heart of historic Boyertown, is the home of the Arts and Activities Alliance, a committee of Building a Better Boyertown, a nonprofit Main Street program dedicated to revitalizing small towns.

Studio B celebrates lifelong learning, creativity and personal involvement in the visual and literary arts, offers opportunities to enhance creativity, health, and wellness through the arts and seeks to be a dynamic part of Boyertown community, a “go to” destination for learning, fun and friendship. The studio seeks to showcase the work of fine artists in themed exhibits—some juried, some open to all—and welcomes art in diverse media. In addition to art exhibits and classes, Studio B also hosts catered dinners for service clubs and small groups, gallery talks, and “Getting to Know You” opportunities.

Visitors are always welcome to view the changing exhibits; take lessons in the visual, literary, and communication arts offered by highly-trained local artists and teachers; and schedule small events or parties.