Arts & Entertainment
ArtSquare Reception to Mark Opening of New Exhibit
Paintings by local artists Courtney Murphy and Jessica Wilson featured until April 8.
ArtSquare is gearing up for an opening reception on Friday, March 9, which will feature the work of Courtney Murphy and Jessica Wilson.
Murphy’s work includes figure painting, which she says is because she finds herself “inspired by body language and is drawn to people”.
The artist explains she is also “inspired by telling a story, but not giving the ending.
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“I set a theme, create an environment and give a glimpse of the people and actions,” Murphy said.
Murphy’s style comes from old portraits, the Renaissance, as well as artists such as Velasquez, Vermeer and Ingres. Her palettes change as she contrasts severe light and shadows.
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Murphy grew up in California where she began drawing at the age of 12. Murphy has studied at the California Art Institute, the Art Center of Pasadena, The University of California at Davis and the New York Academy of Art, where she received her Masters of Fine Arts in Painting. She also studied at the Pont Aven School of Contemporary Art in Brittany, France.
Wilson has a degree in Art History from George Washington University and has worked in the field of graphic design. She has had formal training in painting, sculpture and printmaking.
This month's exhibit focuses on her landscape art.
“What interests me is the way a particular angle of light defines the subject by the shadows imposed and the making of new shapes,” Wilson said.
ArtSquare operates classes, studios and gallery space for local artists. It is located at 12 Cardinal Park Drive, SE in Leesburg.
The public is invited to meet the artists, view an incredible display of artwork, while enjoying light refreshments on Friday, March 9 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
There will be an additional opportunity to meet both artists on Sunday, March 18, at 2 p.m. Both Murphy and Wilson will lead a gallery talk at ArtSquare to discuss their work.
For more information, visit Loudounartsquare.org. To learn more about Murphy and Wilson, visit their websites at courtneymurphyart.com and jessicawilsonfineart.com.
