Two gallery artists whose work manifests intriguing surfaces and seductive textures that conjure summer days are the focus of the gallery’s fall show, What I Did on My Summer Vacation, beginning September 14 and running through October 19. Kelly Jean Ohl’s ceramic pieces
are abstract objects with textures that reference biological entities, intricate lace or otherworldly patterning. Julie Snidle’s encaustic (melted beeswax) paintings are luminous with abstracted light, color, and surface intrigue. Together, their work reflects on and looks back at summer. The artist reception for the show will be held on Saturday, September 21, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
“The summery nature of Snidle’s luminosity and the remarkable textures in Ohl’s objects—which remind me of something I might have found on the beach during vacation—are the perfect complement to a show that looks back at our wonderful yet fleeting summers,” says Patrick Pryor, co-owner of Kolman & Pryor Gallery, and the show’s curator. “We’re so looking forward to showcasing these two artists for collectors and visitors.”
Ohl creates all of her ceramic pieces by hand. “I carve the intricate designs on each piece, often using household utensils or handmade textiles, then individually burnish and sand them before firing,” she explains. “After the work cools from the first firing, each piece is washed, waxed, hand painted with oxides, and then fired a final time up to 2400 degrees.” Her rattles, bowls, and multi-piece installations remind collectors and visitors of something found on a beach or in a tide pool.
Snidle utilizes encaustic, and oil and cold wax, mediums she feels best express the light, spaciousness, and mystery she seeks to convey in her abstract paintings. “I am captivated by the process of color placement and creating luscious layers that can be excavated in order to reveal their hidden gems,” she says. “My work begins with a spark of an idea that continues to evolve as I consider a variety of possibilities and respond sensitively to what is before me.”
Ohl has been a gallery artist for almost 10 years. “Kelly Jean keeps delighting us with new variations on her shapes and textures, which also keeps people coming back to collect her work,” says Pryor. Snidle is a recent addition to the gallery’s roster, and its second encaustic artist.
“Julie’s work is so seductive, with magical tonality and textures that really reflect the light and colors of a summer day,” says Pryor. “The encaustic world is growing, and collectors are fascinated with the surfaces artists can create with this material. We’re thrilled to be acknowledging the expanding field of artists working in this medium by adding Julie as one of our gallery artists.”