St. Catharines, ON – September 20, 2024 –The John Mann Art Gallery is proud to present Passion and Ascension, a new exhibition featuring the works of Patricia Gagic, Blaise DeLong, and Carlo Amantea. Running from Oct. 12 to Nov. 9, 2024, the exhibition delves into themes of transformation and resilience. Visitors are invited to the opening reception on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. to meet the artists in person.
Each artist in Passion and Ascension brings a unique voice to the exhibition. Carlo Amantea reflects on the philosophical dimensions of painting, encouraging viewers to consider the significance of artistic practice:
"The discipline of painting can give us deeper understanding of our existence. Such knowledge is not available in any other way. For this very reason, genuine artists still paint, since the challenge is great and worth a life-long quest."
Amantea’s paintings embody this thoughtful approach, using form and colour to explore life’s deeper meanings.
In her new series, Blaise DeLong turns to the global stage, reacting to recent world events through a raw and expressive visual language:
"Internalizing today’s current affairs necessitated a different approach which had me working away from my typical geometric style. This exhibition will feature both new works and earlier works, showcasing the progression to a looser composition. This new process has allowed me to continue to build on my expressive vocabulary.”
DeLong’s emotionally charged works confront the viewer with their intensity, breaking from her usual geometric style and offering a powerful reflection on injustice.
Patricia Gagic, in contrast, taps into deeply personal experiences, channelling grief, change, and healing into her latest works:
"With the recent passing of my daughter Kyra Alexandra, and then gallery owner John Mann, I feel my voice is centred upon moving energy towards positivity with raw emotion. Thus, the feeling in my work is generous towards evoking this rise forward."
Her works in Passion and Ascension invite viewers to contemplate the healing power of art, as she explores transformation and renewal.
Additionally, the gallery will host an Artist Talk with Patricia Gagic on Thursday, Oct. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m., offering a deeper insight into her creative process. This free event is open to all. Reservations can be made at info@manngallery.ca.
Exhibition Dates: October 12 - November 9, 2024
Opening Reception: Saturday, October 12, 2-4 PM
Artist Talk with Patricia Gagic: Thursday, October 17, 6-8 PM
Location: John Mann Art Gallery, 1776 Fourth Ave, St. Catharines, ON
