February 23, 2016
Rob Schouten Gallery presents “Evoking Ireland” by Alexandra Morosco, a sculptural pilgrimage inspired by the people, place and spirit of the Irish Landscape through the eyes of a sculptor from March 4 through March 28.
An Artist’s Reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 4, during “First Friday at Greenbank Farm.” Light refreshments will be served. The reception will feature Irish Fiddle Music by Randal Bays & Friends.
Rob Schouten Gallery is pleased to present the debut exhibit of Alexandra Morosco’s sculpture on Whidbey Island. Alexandra has lived on Whidbey Island for 14 years, but is just now revealing her work to her community. Works include sculptures in stone and bronze inspired by the land which has captured Morosco’s imagination, presented along with photographs of Ireland.
“I turn to mediums that speak of the landscape; stone, metal, lime plasters and fiber,” Morosco said. “Less tangible are water, wind and sky, which are part of my visual vocabulary as inherent elements of the west of Ireland. The voice of the Celtic landscape is heard through music, poetry, prayer, work, blessings and iconic design.”
“Ireland—especially the West Country—speaks to me in profound ways” she added. “Since young adulthood I have experienced a palatable longing for the beautiful and fierce land and the people it holds—a people who contain the same fierceness and endurance of the landscape balanced by an inherently gentle countenance.”
“Evoking Ireland” is an abbreviated version of the full-scale exhibition, which will be in production through 2016. When completed, the work will travel to Chicago, Boston and eventually return “home” to make an appearance in Cork City and Galway, Ireland.
Any visual journey to Ireland would be incomplete without a tune or two from the Master Fiddler. Randal Bays and Friends will share the opening night celebration on March 4. The true voice of the Irish landscape will fill the air.
There will also be a St. Patrick’s weekend Artist’s Presentation from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday March 20. You’ll have a chance to hear Morosco speak about her work, process and inspiration. Whidbey singer, Joni Takanikos, will open the afternoon with a musical Irish blessing.
Rob Schouten Gallery, a premier showcase for Whidbey Island and Northwest artists, is located at 765 Wonn Road, #C-103 at the historic Greenbank Farm. The Gallery’s winter hours are weekends 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays by appointment only. For further information, call 360-222-3070 or email info@robschoutengallery.com.
