Fallbrook –
Two new art shows, “Gods & Goddesses (and other Mythical Creatures)” and “Shaman” sculpture, hosted by Friends of the Fallbrook Library, will be on display from May 19 to June 27.
Our artists demonstrate how mythology inspires contemporary art. Reinterpreting mythical tales capture our imaginations with the retelling of ancient stories in painting and sculpture. These stories are a tapestry of creativity that speaks to both the past and present. The art of Sonny Lipps, Richard Stergulz, Marian Seiders, Adeola Davies-Aiyeoloja, Linda Herzog and Susan Frommer are a fusion of old and new, making their thought-provoking art timeless. Sonny Lipps says he is a process painter and often creates with no preconception, only realizing his subject upon completing his work. His whimsical style is colorfully geometric combined with organics and has a flat look without detail, shading or depth. In contrast, the paintings of Richard Stergulz are very detailed. He reaches deep to imagine what his mythical gods may have looked like and enthralls us with the energy he captures on canvas. He says “Interaction between gods and humans were nothing short of fantastic. Man worshipped and despised gods at the same time showing that man just needed to believe in himself”. Marian Seiders has been fascinated by fictional beings since she read fairy tales and mythology from other cultures as a child. Says Marian, “It’s fun to imagine the women in these fictional stories that we have all loved. There is an ancient feeling that appeals to my artist soul.” “Orisa Ibile”, just one of many by Adeola Davies-Aiyoeloja is a hand-crafted enamel mask on copper that honors rich traditions of Yoruba spirituality. Masks were used in ceremonies to celebrate gods and goddesses showing a deep connection between the physical and the divine. Says Adeola, “I pay tribute to the enduring power of tradition and the stories carried through generations”. Linda Herzog combines a hummingbird with Apollo’s Lyre symbolizing flight and mystical music. Her beautiful attention to detail is lyrical. The Shaman Sculpture on the Reading Patio was created by Susan Frommer. Says Susan, “Shamans play an important role in ancient and not so ancient tribal cultures serving as spiritual leaders, healers and acting as mediators between the human and spirit worlds, providing guidance, protection and healing for their communities.”
Please join us for an artist’s reception on May 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Fallbrook Library. Mingle with the artists and enjoy light bites and listen to live music and be spiritually energized. Everyone is welcome at this free event. The library is located at 124 S. Mission Rd.
