Gail Ingis-Claus, Corner of Stillwell and Surf 24x18, oil on canvas
The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will present the exhibition, Places and Politics, Oct. 17 through Dec. 27, 2012 at 295 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT. Free Admission, Wed.-Sun. 12-4 p.m. An opening reception will be held on Nov. 1, 5-7 p.m. Reservation required.
Inspired by the vibrant political climate, LMMM Art Director Gail Ingis-Claus has organized and curated the exhibition, Places and Politics. Artists and aspiring artists were asked, via social media and arts websites, to join in the discussion with their own interpretation on the subject matter of politics and the environment. Some of the themes suggested in the artist’s prospectus were: natural and man-made environments, forests, glaciers melting, animals at risk of extinction, wetlands, rain forests, bodies of water, political figures, parks, and landmarks. “Participating artists are providing, with their work, an explanation of the political ramifications the place depicted represents,” said Gail Ingis-Claus.
“Best in Show” will be selected by juror David Dunlop. A renowned landscape painter, Mr. Dunlop is a modern-day old master whose luminous landscapes draw from both Renaissance techniques and contemporary science. His paintings have been shown internationally and are held in the collections of major corporations including Aetna Insurance, Citibank, Colgate Palmolive, Delta Airlines, GE Capital Corporation, IBM, Mobil and more.
A Connecticut native, David Messner divides his week between Stamford and Beacon Falls. A graduate of Paier College of Art, he is a member of Fairfield County Artists Association, where he holds the position of treasurer. “I find that I am drawn to paint buildings” David says, “that in some way speak to me and allow me to tell their story.”
David Messner, Waiting for Teddy, 24h x 27w, acrylic on masonite
The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is a National Historic Landmark and regarded as one of the earliest and most significant surviving Second Empire Style country houses ever built in the United States. It predates by 20 years the Vanderbilt homes in New York and Newport, R.I. and has been the set for movies and TV shows including Hollywood’s Stepford Wives, House of Dark Shadows and A&E’s America’s Castles.
During the season, full tours at the Mansion are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $6 for children and young adults ages 8-18. Children under 8 are admitted free. Tour hours are 12- 4 p.m., Wed.-Sun. Tours are on the hour, and the last tour is at 3 pm. For information on educational programs, events and rentals, call 203-838-9799 or e-mail: info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com.
