THE ABSTRACT IN REALISM:
Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, Mimo Gordon Riley, Gretchen Dow Simpson

September 4 - January 2, 2010
Members' Reception September 10

Gretchen Dow Simpson Maine XXIII, 2010, Oil on Canvas; 30 x 36 in.

Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, Mimo Gordon Riley and Gretchen Dow Simpson are accomplished artists who paint and draw in the realist manner. Their styles are distinctive, but they share a strong sense of composition, an appreciation for mystery, and an approach to their representational work that is informed by elements of abstract art.

For the first time, the three friends and colleagues will be exhibiting their work together in "The Abstract in Realism" at the Newport Art Museum. The exhibition includes watercolors and dramatic portraits drawn in charcoal on Mylar by Gaucher-Thomas, Simpson's meditations on architectural details and the landscape, and a progression of Riley's colorful, mosaic-like tree paintings.

Gaucher-Thomas is the founder and president emerita of the Art League of Rhode Island and a signature member of the National Watercolor Society. Simpson is well-known for her crisp, geometric New Yorker magazine covers. Riley found inspiration in East Coast architecture and landscapes for many years before beginning her exploration of trees as subject matter.

Meet the Artists

Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, Mimo Gordon Riley and Gretchen Dow Simpson will speak about their work on Sunday, September 19 - 2 pm. FREE with Museum admission.

We'd love to hear from you!

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