September 2 – October 23, 2011

Exhibition Reception: Friday, September 2, 5 - 8pm

Suggested Admission: $6 per adult; Members and children 12 & under are free

This exhibition features two artists from the Finger Lakes region that share long standing and prolific artistic careers.  Both painters depict tranquil scenes best described as “quietude.”  Derived from the title of Harry Bliss’ painting “Quietude,” – this state of stillness or calm is reflected in outdoor landscapes, interiors, and contemplative portraits.

Chris Baker (Weedsport, NY) paints primarily with gouache, an opaque watercolor.  Baker’s landscapes and interior scenes inspire the viewer to investigate the visual richness of familiar scenes.  He explains, “I try to engage the viewer to look more closely, listening for the “whispers” contained in the subtle quiet passages of my painting.”   Baker taught art for over 38 years in Cato-Meridian Central Schools.

Harry Bliss (Pittsford, NY) is known for his award-winning paintings as well as his illustrations for The New Yorker and National Geographic magazines.  His subjects include landscape, interiors, and a series of portraits in pencil.  His work is still, quiet, and meditative.  Bliss encourages the viewer to consider each detail of the objects depicted in carefully composed scenes.  Bliss states, “Learning art is learning to see.”