October Issue 2000
New Exhibits at Somerhill Gallery in Chapel Hill, NC
Somerhill Gallery in Chapel Hill, NC, announces a two-person exhibit for artists Mark Chatterley and Rodger Bechtold. New figurative sculptures by Chatterley and recent representational paintings by Bechtold will be on exhibit through Oct. 28.
Mark
Chatterley
Mark Chatterley describes his own work as "ancient representations of the soul." His abstracted figures sculpted in clay are often life sized. His most recent works delve into connections with dreams and Chatterley admits they are highly autobiographical. Chatterley wants his viewers to visualize what his sculptures are thinking about. His textures range from shiny metallic to crusty, weathered surfaces. Each piece has its own unique identities which build personality and character to create a stimulating journey for the eye.
With dominant brushstrokes and a viscous application
of paint, Rodger Bechtold produces compelling landscapes. His
masterful handling of color enhances his pieces and adds interest
to somewhat simplistic compositions. He generally works on large
canvases, thoroughly filling the space, providing a visual harmony
for his viewers.
An Illinois resident, Bechtold has studied at the American Academy of Art, Chicago, IL, and the School of the Art Institute also in Chicago. In addition, he has studied extensively with artist Wolf Kahn. He has exhibited throughout the United States and is a recipient of numerous awards. His work is included in many NC collections including Central Carolina Bank. Recently, Bechtold was honored by being included in the First Glance Books publication The Artist and the American Landscape, by John Driscoll and Arnold Skolnick. This book is the most comprehensive survey of contemporary landscape painting in the United States. The artist resides in both northern Illinois and Washington Island, WI.
This will be Bechtold's second feature exhibit at Somerhill Gallery.
Mark Chatterley received both his BA and MFA degrees from Michigan State University. He has exhibited widely throughout the eastern United States. Included in this list are exhibits at Penn State University, The Pearl Conrad Gallery at Ohio State University, the Michigan Potters Association, the National Ceramics Invitational Exhibit at Bowling Green(OH) State University Fine Arts Gallery, and the Michigan Arts Competition in Battle Creek, MI. His works can be found in many collections, both public and private, including the Duke Weeks Corporation in Morrisville, NC. In addition, he has also taught advanced-level ceramics at Michigan State University.
Previously, Chatterley has been featured in one-person exhibits in 1994 and 1997, along with several group exhibits at Somerhill Gallery.
Samantha
Grisdale
And, this exhibition features an extra visual bonus. New art jewelry discovery, California artist Samantha Grisdale, will be exhibiting a special collection for Somerhill including gold, silver and gemstone enhanced jewelry inspired by the sea.
For further information check our NC Commercial
Gallery listings or call the gallery at 919/968-8868.
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