Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Review of the Inaugural Opening at PGAC

Friday night I attended the Pitman Gallery and Art Center's inaugural opening reception. I went with my friend and mentor, Janice Chassier, and my middle school art teacher, Lorraine Hill. These women were very influential in helping me become an artist and art teacher. I was so glad to spend the evening exploring this new gallery space with them.

When we first walked into the gallery, there was a very welcoming sitting area with couches and featured works of art. After going up a few steps, guests were welcomed with delicious hors d'oeuvres and refreshments in the foyer. The Greater Pitman Chamber of Commerce had a table setup with information about all of the great things Pitman businesses have to offer. I spoke with the owner of the Inn on Holly, Yvonne. She was very nice and even introduced me to one of the gallery board members, Lisa Morgey. Lisa then introduced me to gallery founders Tina and Albert Magonagle. It was great to put a face with their names!

While viewing the artwork, we were immediately impressed with the size of the gallery space. The artists that were exhibiting together had three very different styles. The gallery's size and layout displayed them all very well together. Each artist had their own section or wall. On the left side of the gallery was fantasy work by Scott Kirschner, in the center was photorealistic artwork by Robert Hochgertel, and on the right side was abstract work by Chuck Hosier. The most versatile part of the gallery were the mobile walls that can be reconfigured! I can't wait to see how they utilize them in future exhibitions.

The opening was very well attended! Although the gallery is very spacious, you inevitably bumped into some fellow art lovers on Friday night. I found this aspect to be very exciting because you are all there for the same reason: to view artwork, reflect, and talk about art!

After the opening, we strolled down Broadway and explored the businesses that were open. Below are some pictures from our evening out in Pitman.

Outside of Pitman Gallery & Art Center

Looking in toward the gallery from the foyer

Looking from the back corner toward the foyer

Pitman Broadway Theater at night
Fahrenheit Ceramic Studio mural by friend, Nick LeDonne

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