Launching today, April 4th, ARC Select unveils an electrifying special exhibition at Rehs Contemporary, New York City. In partnership with the esteemed non-profit Art Renewal Center, ARC Select spotlights the extraordinary talents of eight contemporary artists. Situated in the heart of midtown, just off Fifth Avenue, the gallery warmly welcomes art enthusiasts and collectors to immerse themselves in the brilliance of these remarkable creations and their visionary creators.
Dan Chudzinski “The Reliquary of St. George” Mixed media sculpture. Photos – courtesy of Rehs Contemporary Galleries ©
The grand opening event unfolds on Thursday evening, April 4th, from 5 – 8 PM, extending its captivating allure until May 3rd, 2024. This marks the fifth instalment of ARC Select hosted by Rehs Contemporary, debuting in their expansive new gallery on West 55th Street. Additionally, for the first time, the exhibition will feature award-winning works from the latest ARC Salon, a prestigious realist art competition.
Dispel any notion that “academic art” is solely synonymous with “traditional art” – ARC Select shatters this misconception. Academic artists demonstrate an unparalleled capacity for innovation, pushing the boundaries of imagination. Renowned artists such as Mike Wimmer and Dan Chudzinski introduce an otherworldly dimension to the narrative.
Wimmer, an accomplished illustrator and art professor at SCAD, unveils his mesmerizing ‘Enchanted Art’ series. These enchanting works transport viewers into magical realms inhabited by fairies and gnomes. Take, for instance, “An Acorn Scurry,” where we witness a whimsical encounter between a fortunate gnome and young squirrels amid the forest floor. Beyond the enchanting subject matter, Wimmer’s adept use of texture and light showcases true mastery.
Margo Selski “Summer Goddess” Oil on linen ©
Similarly, Chudzinski’s oeuvre delves into imaginative realms, challenging our perceptions of reality. His latest creations in the ‘Reliquary Series’ pay homage to mythical beings like vampires, unicorns, and dragons. “The Reliquary of St. George,” a towering sculpture featuring a monstrous dragon skull atop a spike, is a mesmerizing feat of creativity and craftsmanship.
In a departure from the fantastical, artist Margo Selski captivates with her surreal compositions, seamlessly blending human figures with animal companions in ethereal settings. One of her standout works, “Summer Goddess,” draws inspiration from nature’s splendour, evoking a sense of awe and gratitude.
The lineup of participating artists extends to Greg Hildebrandt, Shana Levenson, Tina Spratt, Allen Douglas, and Christine Porter Lofaro, each contributing a unique aesthetic sensibility. With a diverse array of styles and subjects, ARC Select promises an unforgettable exhibition experience, embodying the pinnacle of artistic excellence.
