The Whitewater Arts Alliance is hosting “Seasoned: Three Artists, Three Lifetimes in Art” Feb. 5-28, an art exhibition that showcases the hard work of three artists who have spent decades honoring their craft.
A public reception was held Feb. 7, which welcomed community members and offered an opportunity to meet the artists and engage directly with their work.
According to gallery director Kim Adams, the idea came from the artists’ deep rooted involvement in the Arts Alliance.
“They’ve all been long-time members of the Arts alliance; none of them knew each other, but they’ve all been very involved with the arts alliance over the years,” Adams said. “We thought it would be fun to bring their talents together in a three-person show.”
The exhibition features Gary Kincaid, Sylvia Hall Linton, and Caryl Yasko. Each artist comes from a different background and works with various mediums, which creates a unique exhibition. The showcase emphasizes the idea that art is not simply something one does, but something one becomes over time.
Kincaid is a Whitewater architect, farmer and artist who was raised surrounded by art and creativity. His architectural training influences the balance of his work, while his connection to farming keeps him grounded in natural landscapes. Kincaid’s pieces honor materials, landscapes and legacy.
Linton’s career follows a different path. After a long career as a librarian and educator, she began to reexplore her passion for painting. She found a welcoming community in Whitewater, where she was encouraged to experiment artistically. Her paintings often feature natural imagery and incorporate certain memories from her life.
Yasko has spent her lifetime devoted to public art and was one of the developers of the Chicago mural group in the early 1970’s. Her mural under City Stone remains one of Chicago’s most recognized public artworks.
“This Arts Alliance is the first time that the community itself has standalone dedicated to the arts,” Yasko said. “It’s wonderful to have a standalone community arts center.”
The Arts Alliance’s mission is to support, promote and develop the arts as an essential part of the community.
“Our brand slogan is celebrating the arts and creating community, and we are doing both by hosting this exhibition,” Adams said.
The Arts Alliance welcomes all members of the community to reflect on artistic expression and experiences.
The exhibition invites community members of all ages and backgrounds to engage with art that is shaped by time, experience and personal history. Through a range of mediums and perspectives, “Seasoned” highlights the role of long term creativity and how that can strengthen community connection.
The exhibition serves as a reminder of the role local artists play in giving creative expression a voice and providing accessible spaces to showcase their work.
