The Abstract in Realism January 2, 2011

Nancy Gaucher-Thomas, founder and president emerita of the Art League of Rhode Island and a signature member of the National Watercolor Society, has worked in watercolor for more than twenty years and is best known for her unique approach utilizing the watercolor medium on plate bristol. This exhibition features new work by Gaucher-Thomas - portraits drawn in charcoal on Mylar. New England trees served as backdrops in Mimo Gordon Riley's paintings until three years ago when she began exploring them as subject matter through the use of simple, abstract shapes and high color. 'The Abstract in Realism' includes examples from multiple years, allowing the viewer to see Gordon Riley's artistic progression. Gretchen Dow Simpson is well-known for her crisp, geometric explorations of architectural details, many of which have appeared on the cover of New Yorker magazine. Her recent work is more painterly and voluminous yet retains the unmistakable Dow Simpson elements of the hidden staircase, or the glimpse through a window in the late afternoon sun.