June 24, 2016

Rob Schouten Gallery is pleased to feature the evocative sculpture of Sharon Spencer, and the graceful and unique paintings on silk by Keiichi Nishimura. Join for an artists’ reception for Spencer and Nishimura during ‘First Friday at Greenbank Farm’ on Friday, July 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. The show continues July 1 — Aug 1.

Spencer’s stylized works in bronze range from bird and human forms to more abstract pieces. She finishes her bronzes sculptures with an unusual variety of colorful patinas and patterns that make her work instantly recognizable. Her natural fiber and mixed media works also are part of of this exhibit.

Reflecting on her creative process, the artist said, “Carving is an exciting process for me. It is sometimes planned and thought-out, and sometimes totally free-wheeling. The spirit of the piece seems to be within the material I use, as well as from inside me. I’m best known for my bronzes but also love working in mixed media. The process of building the structure, gathering natural materials and handmade paper, mixing it all to a textured pulp, applying it to the structure, then finish, feels fresh and enlivening for me. And that energy in turn benefits my bronze carvings as well.” Spencer is celebrating 40 years as a professional artist.

A resident of Whidbey Island, Nishimura was born in Kyoto, Japan. He is known for his uniquely Asian imagery and his use of metal leaf within his one-of-a-kind paintings on silk. His medium is a water-based pigment derived from suihigofun (a mineral), which the artist grinds and then mixes with a delicate balance of nikawa (melted pine sap). The nikawa is what gives the pigment its rich color and also enables it to adhere to the silk. Nishimura’s work is a modern interpretation of traditional images and techniques. He understands deeply both the discipline of his Eastern culture, and the freedom of Western expression, a combination he integrates beautifully into his work.

During the reception light refreshments will be served. The Farm’s other galleries and shops will all be open until 7 p.m. as well. There will be live music in several spots, and delicious food by Island Mexican Food Truck, Whidbey Island Kettle Corn, and of course, dessert at Whidbey Pies Cafe.

Rob Schouten Gallery, a premier showcase for Whidbey Island and Northwest artists, is located at 765 Wonn Rd., #C-103 at the historic Greenbank Farm. The Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For further information, call 360-222-3070 or email info@robschoutengallery.com.