MIDDLETOWN >> A new exhibit, “Driven to Abstraction,” opens on Saturday night at the Middletown Art Center.
This new exhibit will highlight a variety of abstract art works that do not represent external reality but work through shapes, form, color and texture. It marks the 15th exhibit since the art center — known colloquially as “the MAC” — opened its doors in March of 2015.
“The exhibitions and caliber of work keep getting better,” said Lisa Kaplan, Director at MAC. “It’s really exciting to curate the shows and see it all come together.”
The Middletown Art Center is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to providing artistic and cultural opportunities to the residents and visitors of South Lake County while contributing to the community’s health and economic vitality. In its short history it has witnessed fire and recovery. Much of the MAC’s Eco Arts exhibit was destroyed during the Valley Fire. The downtown Middletown facility was not damaged and quickly reopened.
On the anniversary of the fire the MAC premiered “Ashes to Art,” intentionally timed and featuring highly personal artwork related to the Valley Fire — including pieces incorporating items found in its wake.
The exhibit drew one of the center’s largest crowds to the opening.
Not all of the exhibits have been as dramatic. But each of the 15 exhibits has focused on a different theme and showcased work by contemporary artists living or working in Lake County. The MAC issues calls for submissions in the months leading up to the opening reception.
For Driven to Abstraction, the opening reception begins at 6 p.m. on Saturday with music and screening of work by experimental filmmaker Stan Brahkage. The screenings take place in the classroom-studio area of the MAC.
“We invite everyone to come out and join us at our openings, which are always a terrific local cultural event, or to visit the gallery during regular business hours,” said Kaplan.
Refreshments and wine will be available to enjoy.
The reception ends at 8 p.m. The exhibit itself runs through March 5.
MAC is located at the junction of Highways 29 and 175 in Middletown. MAC is open Thursday 12-6 p.m., Friday-Saturday 12-7 p.m., Sunday 1-6 p.m. or by appointment.
