Four established photographers with strong ties to Mendocino County offer a selection of images that reflect on their careers while also exploring new work. Our featured artists have different approaches and discernibly distinctive aesthetics. Aryan Chappell’s semi-abstract shots of nature often strike a balance between what the physical eye sees with what the inner eye comprehends. Roger Franklin, on the other hand, finds a home with people as subjects, capturing their passions in the performance of life. Amy Melious gently pushes on the boundaries photography, manipulating landscapes into something close to enchanted fairy tale images. As for Robert Taylor, he adeptly explores light, natural forms, and elements of nostalgia in elegant black and white landscapes. Combined, these artists have produced bodies of work that are both eye-popping and contemplative. Spanning widespread areas of natural beauty and its colorful inhabitants, all four cite Mendocino County as a place of lasting inspiration.
Gathering Light is made possible through the efforts and generosity of the Sun House Guild.
Click here for a feature article from the Feb 28, 2019 issue of the Ukiah Daily Journal.
Exhibition Programs:
Sunday, March 3, 2:00–3:00 PM
Gathering Light with Amy Melious and Robert Taylor
Two of Gathering Light’s featured artists provide a tour of the exhibition. Limited to 20 visitors. Reservations required. Call the Museum at (707) 467-2836 to reserve a spot. Free with Museum admission.
Friday, April 5, 6:00–7:30 PM
Tim’s Vermeer Film Screening and First Friday Art Walk
Produced by illusionists Penn & Teller, the 2014 documentary Tim’s Vermeer explores how optical devices may have helped Dutch master painter Johannes Vermeer achieve his spectacular sense of visual realism. Art historians are split on whether Vermeer used optical technologically to create his masterpieces. Revelation or hoax? You decide. Museum open from 5:00 to 8:00 PM for First Friday. Museum admission and the film screening are Free.
Saturday, April 13, 2:00–3:00 PM
A Brief History of California Photography
An illustrated talk by Drew Johnson, Curator of Photography at the Oakland Museum of California. Free with Museum admission.
Friday, May 3, 5:00–7:00 PM
Make a Solar Photo and First Friday Art Walk
Cathy Monroe leads a workshop where visitors learn the art of creating a photo with sunlight. Fun for the whole family. Museum open from 5:00 to 8:00 PM for First Friday. Workshop gord from 5:00 to 7:00. Museum admission and workshop are Free.
Sunday, May 26, 2:00–3:00 PM
Gathering Light with Aryan Chappell and Roger Franklin
Two of Gathering Light’s featured artists provide visitors with a tour of the exhibition. Limited to 20 visitors. Reservations required. Call the Museum at (707) 467-2836 to reserve a spot. Free with Museum admission.