The art of Rivers & Shores unveiled at Reflections Gallery
Abstraction and representation. Normally, these two things do not coexist, but on Friday, they will. Beginning at 5 p.m., Reflections Gallery will host a reception for painters Renel Plouffe and James Tucker, with in-studio musical accompaniment by pianist Luke Simmons. And although Plouffe and Tucker are radically different artists, each has a passion for revealing the natural world in their own distinct way.
Plouffe’s work is abstract expressionism. In no way is her art supposed to be a depiction of reality in the “normal” sense. The way she goes about creating her pieces is magnificent. “I break down what I see to it’s visual essentials—light, dark, color, tone, movements, and textures. The reflection is a reflection of my true essence and outlook.”
She then goes on to say something just as beautiful as her paintings: “Painting is my speech, my playground, my reality.” Her art has been shown all over the place, from Houston to Montreal to Chattanooga. Her use of vivid color is entrancing and inventive. How could you not want to see her art up close and personal?
Tucker’s work leans the other way completely, but in the best way possible. While he relies on the tangibility of materials he gathers whilst sailing on the Tennessee River, he paints from the emotions he experiences while on the river. The paintings are direct representations of the river, but the inspirations behind them are abstract emotions.
Tucker has no shortage of academic prowess, studying at The University of Georgia, The Atlanta College of Art, and the Callanwolde Arts Center. He utilizes several mediums to get his thoughts across including acrylic, oil, and pen and ink. There is no shortage of creativity or virtuosity when it comes to this seasoned painter.