Modern quilting and abstract painting might not seem related — but a unique exhibition opening April 22 demonstrates that they are. Add poetry and music to the mix, and you have “Echoes & Reflections: From Abstract Painting to Modern Quilting and Beyond.” The exhibit features four painters, four quilters, four poets, and two musicians.
Ruth Fischer, co-owner of Contoocook Quiltworks, conceived the idea while talking with artist James Wolcott in his Penacook studio.
“How does a work in one medium inspire another? How does an idea or image resonate through different groups of makers?” she wondered. Wolcott was intrigued as well. The result is an exhibit in which paintings are displayed alongside their echo quilts, as well as with poems inspired by the pairings.
“I find a collaborative approach to art as very rewarding, both for the ultimate richness of the product and for the interpersonal feelings that the artists may experience even if they don’t really know each other,” Jim Wolcott says.
The painters are Jim Wolcott, Pamela Tarbell, Emily Fischer Field, and Ann Saunderson. Quilters are Ruth Fischer, Diane Chartier, Hester Campbell, and Kathy Smith. The poetry of L.R. Berger, Nancy Stewart, Dotty Holcomb Doherty, and David Allen Sullivan will be on display.
Visitors can hear selected poems and comments from the makers through the use of QR codes and mobile phones. They also can listen “Reflections,” an album of instrumental works by Hopkinton musician and composer Brad Myrick and Italian musician Nicola Cipriani. The songs provide a sonic and thematic extension to the visual works.
“This blend of artistic mediums is something we haven’t tried before,” said curator Rick Lugg. “We hope this will enhance the exhibit and highlight the connections and resonances among these works.”
“Echoes & Reflections” is on display April 22 to May 14 at the Bates Building, 846 Main St., Hopkinton. The gallery is open to the public Thursday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. There will be an opening reception with the artists April 23 from noon to 2 p.m. A related program of live music and poetry will take place April 30 at 5 p.m.
More information, including artist bios, visit twovillagesart.org.