The Pilsen area on the near south side of Chicago has been evolving into a significant arts destination, partly due to the presence of the Chicago Arts District on Halsted Street and the National Museum of Mexican Art which is a kind of anchor for the neighborhood’s art community.
A number of small art galleries there are gathering attention and contributing to Chicago’s vibrant urban art scene including the LALUZ Gallery on 18th Street.
On Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017, LALUZ Gallery opened its newest show, “Visions of Wisconson” to feature artists Sara Strozinsky, Anne Horjus, Katie Schofield and Laura Annis.
The four artists who have distinctly different aesthetics are friends and collaborators from the Baraboo/Madison area.
Watercolors depicting calming close-up views of Wisconsin prairie grass, watery rocks and trees by artist Sara Strozinsky offer a sharp contrast to the bustling Ashland Avenue traffic just outside the door.
Dutch born artist and current Wisconsin resident Anne (pronounced ON-eh) Horjus is exhibiting two series, each inspired by the choral works of composer Eric Whitacre. Horjus is a singer and a visual artist, so working the two disciplines together is a natural fit for him.
His first series entitled “Sleep” combines fine-lined sketch work with muted colors that depict the thoughts of a slumbering boy. Done in black Derwent pencils and airbrush it has a wonderfully light touch. “Sleep” is now available in book form with a poem by Charles Anthony Silvestri and includes a link to Whitacre’s musical composition.
The artist’s second series, bolder with more highly-saturated colors, is “Leonardo Dreams of his Flying Machine.” Inspired by the works of DaVinci, it complements another Whitacre composition.
When viewed side by side it is difficult to imagine that they are works by the same artist, but Horjus is nothing if not versatile. Friends describe him as a “Renaissance Man.”
The show also features the works of artist Katie Schofield who is primarily known for her natural forms that usually are showcased in outdoor venues, and Laura Annis’ known for her bold colors to depict nature and mythology in an animation/illustration style.
“Visions of Wisconsin” at LALUZ Gallery 1545 W. 18th Street. through September 2, 2017. For hours and other information visit LALUZ or call (312) 401-344.
Reno Lovison