Staff Pick: Sculpture by Rebecca Rich

By Jacki Coleman

Ceramic Set, 2014

Rebecca Bella Rich does it again with this beautiful eye catching sculpture set.  This piece of art embodies Rich’s lively and empathetic spirit. The tactile quality of pottery allows Rebecca to capture tranquility through the methodical process and display freedom through her expressive construction. 

The craftsmanship is distinctive and her evident use of pressure builds abstractions of the deconstructed human form.  The largest sculptural form is reminiscent of  a woman’s silhouette, exaggerated extremities mimic dancing arms swinging freely in the air; freedom and independence are themes often visited in Rich’s work. The two additional figurines are not equal in size, but when placed in close proximity with the main sculpture provide balance and pathways for the viewer’s eyes to travel over the three pieces together. 

Rebecca’s choice of muted tones makes these pieces visually stunning while the relationship of the hues creates a tranquil sense. The yellow demands attention on specific planes while the blue and purple create a sense of a soft form.  I purchased this piece after instantly falling in love with its both dreamy and energetic composition.

Surprisingly dark, imaginative, and autonomous themes can be seen throughout all of Rich’s work. This set of sculptures is a well executed sample of Rich’s ability to juxtapose the softer, more compassionate side of life to the often harsh reality she faces.  Rich’s work gives her the outlet to express herself freely and without prejudice.

Gateway Artist Fran Brown Participates in Panel Discussion at Cotting School!

By Jenine Shereos

Earlier this month, Gateway Artist Fran Brown had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion at her Alma Mater, Cotting School in Lexington Massachusetts.

The “Visions of the Future” panel was held on Wednesday, April 2^nd in the Cotting School auditorium. The visiting panel of alumni and other adults with disabilities shared with current students their experiences with the transition process, independent living and working, post-secondary education, transportation and recreation and other aspects of life after high school.

Fran gave a wonderful power point presentation with many photos about her life after graduating from Cotting in 2005.  The presentation included her many hobbies, adventures with family and friends, expreiences living in a group home, her life-long love of art, and her current employment and success as an exhibiting artist at Gateway Arts! 

Barn, colored pencil on rag paper 2013

The Northern Lights, watercolor on rag paper, 2013

After giving her presentation, Fran did a great job answering questions from current Cotting School students in the audience. Way to go Franny, we are so proud of you!

Artist of the Month: Matthew Treggiari

By River Cortes

Matthew working in the Up the Ladder Studio, December 2013.

Hybrid characters, careful detail, and many, many cats can be found in the increasingly popular work of Matthew Treggiari. The subject matter he devises may find its way onto pillows, sculptures, bowls, stretched canvases, clothing and printed fabric, but drawing is his most natural medium.

Untitled, hand-stitched felt and cotton puppet, 2012

A native of Salem, Massachusetts, Matthew is a born artist. He began attending Gateway in 2005 but has been drawing for much longer. Matthew is captivated by a rotating array of subjects, often derived from movies, television and video games. He alters these subjects according to his whims. . . which often means that he combines them with cats. Despite the mischievous humor found in his themes, Matthew takes his work very seriously.

This duality is reflected in his personality. A deceptively quiet young man, Matthew experiences emotions intensely. Whatever his feelings, they rarely interfere with his need to create.

Emperor Krill, acrylic and paint marker on canvas, 2013

Catman, acrylic and paint marker on canvas board, 2014

Matthew's work has been shown at the Gateway Gallery in Brookline, MA, Drive-By Projects in Waltham, MA, the New Art Center in Newton, and at the Mall at Chestnut Hill in Chestnut Hill, MA.  See more of Matthew's work here.