An intriguing collection of local artistry awaits visitors at the RP Funding Center, courtesy of a collaboration with the Lakeland Arts Association.
The collaborative exhibition, aptly named “Express Yourself,” showcases the diverse talents of local artists. According to Vicky Lauffman, Lakeland Arts Association’s Show Director, the goal is to instill greater confidence among artists, encouraging them to publicly display their work. Established in 1958, the association—formerly the Lakeland Art Guild—supports artists through various workshops, exhibitions, and monthly gatherings, building a community of around 160 members. Over the past decade, the association has organized five exhibitions annually at the center.
William Araujo, a painter featured in the exhibition, seizes moments of expression in his work. He recalls capturing a rare playful moment of a normally calm friend, describing it as a unique shift in perception. His enthusiasm for different forms of expression is shared by fellow artists like Mary Worsley, who explores family dynamics through detailed portraits of her grandchildren using graphite, charcoal, and colored pencils.
The artwork presented by Tifane Worsley offers a distinctive subtractive technique. Utilizing a scratch board—a clay base with Indian ink—she creates intricate designs by removing individual strokes. A standout piece depicting an insect on a flower required over 5,000 meticulous strokes, highlighting the labor-intensive and time-consuming nature of this approach.
Meanwhile, painters Wayne Chunat and John Salamone draw inspiration from their respective environments. Salamone, a veteran painter of 40 years, offers a scene of flowing water and vibrant trees, conveying a sense of tranquility. Chunat, who focuses on wildlife art, embraces the plein air technique, painting outdoors to immerse himself fully in nature’s elements. He finds the sensory engagement essential to his artistic process, capturing the ambient atmosphere within his artwork.
Feedback remains central to the artists’ experience, whether from expert judges or casual visitors. Araujo emphasizes the importance of interacting with viewers to gauge reactions to his work, a sentiment echoed by many at the exhibition. “,Express Yourself” remains a fixture at the RP Funding Center until mid-January, inviting audiences to engage with the creative expressions on display.
The “Express Yourself” exhibition exemplifies the rich tapestry of local artistic expression, providing a space for artists to share their unique perspectives with the community.
Source: Fox13news
