Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Archway Gallery: Opening--Aug 12



Archway Gallery presents ON THE VERGE
Featuring Paintings by Susan Spjut and Photography by Michael Bonagurio
Exhibition                   August 5 – August 31, 2017
Opening Reception
DATE:                         Saturday, August 12, 2017
TIME:                          5 – 8 p.m.
LOCATION:     Archway Gallery, 2305 Dunlavy, Houston, Texas 77006
Complimentary Valet Parking
& Light Refreshments
Houston, Texas (June 26, 2017) … Susan Spjut and Michael Bonagurio 's exhibition, ON THE VERGE, will be on view August 5 – August 31, 2017. The artists will be available to visit with guests during the opening reception on Saturday, August 12, 2017, from 5 – 8 p.m. with an Artists' Talk at 6:30 p.m.
ON THE VERGE puts the focus on endangered animals and is a tribute to the work of zoos in caring for animals, as well as their work in educating the public. Bringing attention to zoos and other wildlife facilities which persevere in the protection of wildlife is the artists' primary goal. The Houston Zoo receives a special nod as it has been a constant source of inspiration for Spjut.
"Many species are endangered, extinct in the wild, or extinct altogether. Once a species is gone, it is gone forever," explains Susan. Therefore, she uses her art to help raise awareness of this threat reminding us that, "human existence relates to all life forms on our planet." Michael Bonagurio's nature photography is a complementary balance to Susan Spjut's exquisite animal paintings.
The artwork for this show began with inspiration from the Galapagos Islands. "Since taking a family trip to some of the islands in the Galapagos archipelago in 2012, Michael and I have enjoyed photographing animals and nature. Our world is endless in its wonder; I find it to be a constant source of beauty, interest, and awe," comments Susan. In addition to the Galapagos Islands, the Houston Zoo and Texas State Parks have served as inspiration for Susan and Michael. Both artists have concerns about the Earth's environment and the dwindling of natural resources which in turn places many wildlife species "on the verge" of extinction.
Susan Spjut graduated from the University of St. Thomas in 1976 with a degree in nursing. Later she pursued her life-long passion by studying art at the University of Houston where her focus was on oil painting and texture. Through her paintings Susan tries to capture what it is about wild animals that fascinates her then shares that with viewers; the hope is to form a connection between humans and the wild.
Michael Bonagurio graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in Psychology and currently works with autistic children in Austin, Texas. Michael, born and raised in Houston, recalls the childhood trips he and his mother, Susan, took to the Houston Zoo. Mother and son appreciate the effort made by the zoo to create better environments for the animals in their care.
ABOUT ARCHWAY GALLERY  Artist owned and operated since 1976. Archway Gallery, one of Houston's and the nation's oldest artist-owned and operated galleries, is located at 2305 Dunlavy and is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m.  Since 1976, Archway Gallery has been exhibiting the work of the area's finest artists, providing a great selection of affordable, high quality art including sculpture, pottery and painting in a variety of media and styles. One of the more than 30 member artists is always on site, providing visitors a unique experience to meet the artists who created the work, offering a personal insight into the process. Each month features a special exhibition highlighting member artist(s). The public is invited to the monthly opening receptions that celebrate the new installations and work, usually held the first Saturday of each month from 5 – 8 p.m.  In addition to monthly exhibitions, Archway also hosts a variety of demonstrations and monthly readings for local writers and authors, as well as a "Tea and Tour" program, providing visitors with a free artist-led tour of the current exhibition, followed by tea and refreshments.  With 30 artist-members, Archway Gallery is THE destination in the Houston area for affordable art directly from the artist. For more information, visit ArchwayGallery.com or call 713.522.2409. Like Archway Gallery on Facebook.
donna e perkins