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September Issue 2004
Manor Theatre in Charlotte, NC, Features Works by Marlene Hecht-Simmons
The Manor Theatre in Charlotte, NC, will present the exhibit, The Female Form and Beyond, featuring large oil and acrylic works by impressionistic/contemporary artist, Marlene Hecht-Simmons. The exhibit will be on view through Oct. 30, 2004.
Hecht-Simmons offer the following about her beginning in the arts. "In my youth, there were times when my mother could occasionally take a break from the Midwestern farm work to sit and relax next to her only daughter. I was thrilled as she would draw with a simple pencil, anything from a horse in full gallop, to a beautiful woman wearing the latest fashion. Her career as an illustrator had been short lived due to the war, marriage, and motherhood. My artistic passions and talents reflected those of my mother."
"During my early education, art in any form, was a vital part of me," says Hecht-Simmons. "Upon graduation, I was offered a scholarship to the Layton School of Art and Design. However, history repeats itself. Marriage, motherhood, and a business career (to pay the bills) took center stage out of necessity. My passion to create was left to haunt me. I worked with my husband, both in law and then in the women's garment industry. I found some creative outlet writing a column for a local paper and articles for monthly publications. Additionally over the next twenty plus years, I managed to take group and private lessons at the highly acclaimed Milwaukee Art Museum."
"When cancer stole my husband, I realized, like so many others who have lost a loved one, that life, indeed, is short," says Hecht-Simmons, adding. "His words to me were, 'I'm giving you your wingsnow soar!'. For the first time in years, I could pursue something deep within me. Selling everything, I moved to Sarasota, Florida where the renowned Ringling School of Art and Design provided the additional education I was looking for. I was honored to work with many fine artists, including, internationally known sculptor, Jack Dowd. I also had time to fall in love and marry. This time, however, marriage and business would not thwart my progress. Now I had a built in fan, critic, and someone sharing my vision.my husband."
Hecht-Simmons has exhibited and won awards at various juried shows. These include: The Longboat Center of the Arts, Bradenton Gallery of Fine Arts, Ringling School of Art and Design, Venice Art Center, various public showings, and private collections. Since becoming a resident of Denver, NC, Hecht-Simmons has become a proud member of The Charlotte Art League and has begun exhibiting in the Charlotte area, while continuing to contribute work to various exhibitions and personal collections throughout the country.
"I truly have reached a point where I will never again be confined or sidetracked," says Hecht-Simmons. "In viewing my work, you will see my surrealistic and contemporary sides. Though I love the aroma and flow of oils, acrylics and pencil lend a different texture and style to the identical subject. You will see my fondness for expressing the human form celebrating its curves and shadows. The eyes of my subjects reflect the hidden passions and emotions that we all are too familiar with, while my abstract and impressionist works reflect the spontaneity and uncertainties in lifewith all its joys, disappointments, and promises. I hope you enjoy."
For further information check our NC Institutional Gallery listings or call the Theatre at 704/334-1324.
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