Nature's Resonance
August 10, 2024

Nature's Resonance

It’s no secret that our gallery has a taste for artworks that depict our local environment. But what is it that makes artwork depicting nature so special? Let’s explore this powerful penchant as we share about our new exhibition:

NATURE’S RESONANCE

Featuring Landscape Paintings by Michael Orwick & Bronze Sculptures by Rip Caswell

In this exhibition, “Nature’s Resonance”, two iconic Oregon artists portray the lively spirits of the local flora and fauna. The beauty and bounty found here in the Pacific Northwest has a ring of legend to it; creative imagination is a natural response to its fascination. In that sense, these artworks can be thought of as a product of nature’s gifts. With bright colors, Michael Orwick depicts the subtle language of our environment in his landscape paintings, while Rip Caswell captures the spirits of native creatures in expert and expressive bronze. Enter into a thoughtful encounter with the natural world through these artists' inspired visions.

 

When it comes to landscapes, painters can capture not only what a scene looked like, but also what it felt like to experience. Each artist has their own mode of mark making that they use to achieve this kind of image. Michael Orwick plays with a variety of textures and emphasizes unique colors to create striking scenes. With these techniques, the moments of light in his paintings feel ethereal.

Here’s what Michael has to say about his work for this exhibition:

“My oil paintings celebrate the interplay of light and atmosphere, capturing nature's intangible beauty. Through diverse oil paint techniques, textures, and applications, I strive to convey landscapes' profound emotional resonance. Each piece invites viewers to experience the natural world's multifaceted moods and fleeting moments.”

Rip Caswell achieves a related effect with his bronze. His sculptures go beyond basic realism as he captures the unique spirits of the creatures he sculpts. In his work, you can sense the individual attitude of the animal, truly bringing them to life.

 

“Rip’s body of work reflects not only the planet's wildlife, but the spirits within each subject he casts in bronze. His ability to capture emotion and to reflect a spirit in the eyes of his sculptures is his most noted achievement. Passionate about conservation, he uses his artwork as a way to support organizations that protect wild habitats.
For Rip, nature is a sanctuary that renews and fosters artistic inspiration and is a source for living, breathing reference material. He hopes that through his artwork, he can share a deep appreciation for the animals he loves, and that the eyes of his sculptures may serve as a window into the life, spirit, and personality of the subjects he casts in bronze.
His mission is that through his artwork he can revitalize the bond between man, animal, and the wild environment that surrounds us.”


We hope that you will enjoy this special collection of original Oregon artwork!