Dreamscapes

Dreamscapes is an exploration of dreamy landscapes—the succession of thoughts, images, sounds or emotions that the mind experiences while creating. Like the logic of a dream—which relies on connection rather than closure—this exhibition brings together works that do not immediately announce their commonality. Dreamscapes include artists, Lee Herring, Sally West, and Dana Oldfather. Through their juxtaposition, the artworks on view offer new ways to think about the content and purpose of dreamy creations on numerous levels: physiological, psychological, cultural, and spiritual.  

Specializing in vibrant, textured, and abstract landscapes that convey fleeting moments, Lee Herring’s energetic works are inspired by everyday moments and memories as he captures these ephemeral spaces within the context of a spontaneous, imaginary landscape. Herring’s paintings evolve through an unpremeditated process as the physicality of his work is evident in the visceral nature of his work.

Throughout her lifelong explorations throughout both Europe and South East Asia, Sally West’s pastel-colored oil paintings are recognizable in the combination of texture, abstraction and calming colors. The movement of the paint strokes on canvas is reminiscent of a light breeze or waves with a purpose to convey a feeling of comfort associated with familiarity and softness.

Dana Oldfather’s dream-like contemporary abstract paintings give rise to her focus on the themes of femininity and motherhood.  Influenced by contemporary art pioneer, Yoshitomo Nara, who expresses children in a range of emotional complexities from resistance and rebellion to quietude and contemplation, Oldfather exercises an intuitive use of color and gesture to celebrate the introspective freedom of the imagination and the female individual.