TORRINGTON, Conn.—Five Points Gallery is presenting three new exhibitions.
In the Torrington Savings Bank Gallery, Belgian artist Jan Beekman is showing his abstract works centered around socio-political themes and the wonders of the universe. The TDP Gallery features moody, atmospheric paintings by James Baker, who won Five Points’ “2024 Small Works Juried Exhibition,” and in the West Gallery, the Five Points Launchpad is featuring in the fourth Biennial Exhibition, featuring 12 artists working across various disciplines and themes.
There will be a reception Friday, June 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. and an Artist Talk Friday, June 27, at 6:30 p.m.
Beekman’s “Endless Voyage” exhibition invites viewers to contemplate fundamental questions about existence and the role of art in an imperfect world, echoing the artist’s inquiries into the perception of our relationship with life and the universe.
“Endless Voyage” showcases Beekman’s ongoing evolution as an artist, reflecting his continuous exploration of new ideas and forms. His work has evolved to incorporate a deeper engagement with nature and encompasses socio-political commentary, evident in works such as “Chorus for Peace,” a statement against war.
James Baker’s “Still Weather” oil paintings strive to find the extraordinary in the mundane in his rural landscapes and interior still-lives. Using direct observation and painterly representation, the work veers toward abstraction in its simplified form and minimalized detail.
Surface patterns merge with the suggestion of deep space and atmosphere. Baker states, “The color and paint handling of these pictures may suggest the climate, atmosphere and landscape of the Northeast where I live, but I’m equally compelled by the rhythm and balance of the picture. Rather than being guided by a preordained outcome or motif, I try to be responsive to the paint and let that drive its progress.”
Five Points’ Launchpad “Biennial Exhibition” features Ethan Brewerton, Daniel Baird-Miller, Christian Crowley, Arnethia Douglass, Karl Goulet, Kelsey Hill, Ethan Newman, Julie Pereira, Madeeha Sheikh, Alex Signori, AKS and Megan Tonucci.
The Five Points Launchpad initiative was formed nearly 10 years ago as a means to grant affordable studio space to emerging artists who have recently graduated from art school. The Launchpad, which has now grown to include more than 20 members from multiple colleges and universities, offers access to affordable shared studio spaces above Five Points Gallery and free access to the Five Points Arts Center.
Other benefits include a serious arts community, mentorship, teaching and management opportunities, as well as a biennial exhibition in Five Points Gallery. This is the fourth biennial exhibition, which features 12 emerging artists working in a variety of mediums including painting, photography, drawing, printmaking, digital art, mixed media art and jewelry design and more.
Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m., and by appointment (860-618-7222).
Five Points exhibitions and educational events are free and open to the public. There is no admission charge to the gallery. All artwork is for sale.
Five Points Gallery is located at 07 Water St. in the historic district of downtown Torrington. For more information about Five Points Arts, visit www.fivepointsarts.org.