March 27, 2024

Animal and Landscape Paintings at Artists’ Gallery

“THIS WAY THROUGH”: This watercolor by Beatrice Bork is featured in “Immersion,” her dual exhibition with Michael Schweigart, on view April 4 through May 5 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville. An opening reception is on April 6 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Artists’ Gallery, 18 Bridge Street in Lambertville, will present “Immersion,” a joint exhibition featuring the works of Beatrice Bork and Michael Schweigart, April 4 through May 5. An opening reception is on Saturday, April 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

In this exhibit, Bork delves deeper into nature close to heart and home. Her watercolors go beyond her meticulously rendered subjects, with underlying themes that make her art both poetic and captivating. In regards to her work, she said, “The careful rendering of my subject and its character, for me, is a reflection of the love and respect I have for animals. The themes in my paintings are imbued with personal reflection — and tend to resonate with nostalgia, humor, hope, or a moment in time.”

“NEAR CAPE PORPOISE”: This acrylic by Michael Schweigart is part of “Immersion,” his joint exhibition with Beatirce Bork, on view April 4 through May 5 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville.

Schweigart explores new dimensions in artistic processes, particularly in the early stages of painting. His intricate landscapes and seascapes are rooted in familiar scenes, and take on a  fresh perspective. Schweigart combines multiple views of a scene, remaining true to the essence of the place. “Some of the work I have for this show involves new ways in the process,” he said. “My goal is to pay more attention to space, atmosphere, and light with the result of added depth and a moody luminous quality to the work.”

Renowned for her animal art, Bork’s water media creations are a visual journey reflecting her lifelong connection with nature. With a 30-year career, Bork holds a signature status with the Society of Animal Artists (SAA) and has received acclaim in international exhibitions, including the prestigious “Art and the Animal.” Notably, she earned the Don Eckelberry Award for exceptional bird art, leading her to explore Trinidad and Tobago’s neo-tropical rainforest. Bork’s artwork has earned accolades both in regional and global exhibits.

A versatile artist, Schweigart draws inspiration from various landscapes, creating scenes that characterize the regions he explores. His studio work, often a composite of memory, plein air sketches, and photographic images, is a testament to his deep appreciation for nature. Schweigart’s focus on Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maine captures the unique way of life associated with these regions. He works in acrylic on 300-pound hot-pressed watercolor paper and oil on various supports. Schweigart’s pieces are featured in public and private collections.

Artists’ Gallery is located at 18 Bridge Street in Lambertville. It is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit lambertvillearts.com.