With images ranging from way-out contemporary to earth-hugging, blue-sky landscapes, a dozen outstanding painters are honoring their craft with a new exhibition at the Earl & Birdie Taylor Library, 4275 Cass St.
“Pure Painting” is on display through July 23 and features works created by longtime and locally celebrated painters.
Jeanne Dunn, professor of art at San Diego state University, enchants with the oil alkyd “Pear Dance Series.” Each painted fruit appears to burst with ripeness, despite the artist’s uncharacteristic technique. Dunn opts for a heavy charcoal pencil to outline the sepia-toned oil pigments, a choice that adds a note of finality to her works.
Clear and detailed landscapes by Carol Lindemulder startle with their purity of color. More than three-fourths of her canvases are relegated to the sky, lending a clear, breathtaking view into the horizon. Lindemulder’s “Blue Dusk” and “Imperial Green” employ oil paints on linen canvas for a display of mastery and an absolute control of strokes. Her hilltop home in Fallbrook no doubt influences her work.
From landscapes to portraits, the exhibit showcases a wide range of talent. Pacific Beach resident Dan Camp’s sexy and edgy paintings narrate a story unfolding between its subjects. A highly lacquered finish of brilliant and dark reds add drama to the interactions and conversations taking place on the canvas.
Art teacher and Ocean Beach resident Ken Goldman provides a shift from his usual seascapes, instead presenting more abstract interpretations. Goldman mixed pumice with acrylic paint for the tropical-hued “Toucan.” Geometric details of flowers, leafs and boughs eclipse the bird’s striking and colorful tail.
Michael Wheelden’s passion for painting draws on his skills as engineer, architect and designer. His precise renderings of lines, shadows and puzzle pieces are stunning and ever-changing. Just when you think you have figured an image out, a second glance reveals a new dimension.
Marianela de la Hoz’s tiny, detailed egg tempera paintings about the subjugation of women in Mexican culture should not be overlooked. The same goes for works by John Abel, Richard Baker, Janet Cooling, Manny Farber, Alexia Markarian and Cheryl Parry.
The library’s gallery is open seven days a week, though library hours vary from day to day. For more information, call (858) 581-9934.