Lisa Riordon is the featured artist in the gallery space at the YWCA of Newburyport through October 31st. More than 40 pieces from her “Children in Silhouette” series are included, all inspired by childhood images of kids playing and exploring their world. The show, which began on September 1st, has been a perfect addition to the walls of the family center.
The artwork is comprised of scratchy, colorful silhouettes of
children in motion on top of backgrounds often painted by her
children. For Lisa, silhouettes are an opportunity to explore
positive and negative spaces, realistic details and abstract shapes.
She has found a niche for painting commissioned portraits or taking
nostalgic photos of children from long ago to create lasting memories
for every generation. The unique appeal to many will be that because
they are figures without distinct features, each viewer is able to
see themselves, their children or grandchildren in every scene. A day
in the park, playing hopscotch on the hot sidewalk, chasing pigeons
or friends… these concepts are universal and capture a moment we
can all relate to. We’re encouraged to reach further and remember
what it was like to stretch our imaginations and discover where
reality blends with shadows and dreams.
Lisa says, ” I’m often asked how it’s done, my process. My secret
weapon? Kids. Not just as subjects and inspiration, but my children
actually have a hand in creating some of the art. I’ll spread smooth
white boards outside on the grass so they can swirl paint around with
giant brushes. For purely selfish reasons this prevents me from ever
staring at a blank canvas. These pre-painted panels then become the
figures in the work as I paint what’s around the action, or the
negative space. Hopefully what shows through in the figures is the
random playfulness of childhood – each painting capturing a moment
of mystery, mischief and fun.”
To view more work and information about commissions, visit her website at: www.joppacreArative.com
The extended show at the YWCA will include new paintings to replace sold pieces. A 10% donation of all pieces sold during the show will go toward funding YWCA programs. The work can be viewed throughout September and October during their normal hours: Monday – Friday from 5:30 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday from 7 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from 7 am to 3 pm. Location: 13 Market St, Newburyport, MA.
