Explore Art and Memories at West Bloomfield’s Janice Charach Gallery
In the heart of West Bloomfield, art lovers and community members have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of memories and emotions at the Janice Charach Gallery. The new exhibit, aptly titled Recollection, is on display through December 11, showcasing the remarkable work of four talented artists who have interwoven their personal stories and experiences into their art.
Meet the Artists
The exhibition features the stunning pieces of Peggy Stulberg, Marci Bykat, Judi Mindell, and Nancy Wanchik. Each artist brings a different perspective and emotional depth to their work, inviting viewers to reflect on their own memories and connections. With a collective of 46 artists participating, the exhibit promises to be a feast for the senses.
Family Ties and Personal Histories
Peggy Stulberg, who returned to Michigan in 2017 after a successful career in litigation support, is excited to share her series that focuses on family dynamics through the lens of cherished vehicles and home life. One standout piece, Just Us Girls, captures a heartfelt moment on her Oak Park front porch with her mother and sister, dressed up for a special occasion.
Stulberg’s artistic style shifts between realistic oil paintings and lively acrylics, depending on the mood she wants to convey. “These paintings are all oil,” she explains. “I work with acrylic for mainly more abstract work… For me, it’s harder to do that in oil because oil takes more time to dry.” It’s clear that her passion for art shines through every brushstroke.
A Daughter’s Tribute
Marci Bykat takes a more intimate approach in her piece, Voicemail from My Mom, January 2019. This emotional artwork combines bright colors and a powerful message from her late mother. Bykat reflected on her creative process, sharing that she has sought ways to bring the essence of her parents’ voices into her artistic world. “These voicemails are saved in an email file, and I wanted to find a way to bring them to the forefront of the world that I live in,” she explained.
This painting not only celebrates her mother’s life but also delves into deeper emotions like grief and gratitude. Bykat employs a variety of techniques, including acrylics, bleeding paper, and sewn thread, showcasing her mastery of mixed media to communicate her feelings.
Watercolors and Family Prayer
Next up is Judi Mindell, who drew inspiration from her family’s traditions after the passing of her brother-in-law. Her piece features a poignant depiction of men sitting shivah, crafted solely with watercolors. Mindell, who has been painting since childhood, took a long hiatus due to her dedication to equestrian pursuits but returned to her artistic roots 30 years ago.
“I’ve done lots of shows because that’s what the Birmingham group does,” she said about her involvement in the artistic community. Mindell’s work resonates deeply with anyone familiar with loss and the importance of honoring family connections during difficult times.
The Iconic Docs
Finally, we have Nancy Wanchik, whose fun creativity shines through her piece, The Iconic Docs. Rather than a traditional portrait, Wanchik presents a single pair of Doc Martens shoes, a nod to her late husband Larry. “One of the things that was very important for him and for me was to remember the good times,” she recalled, tying fond memories to the signature footwear that represented youthful laughter in their lives.
Wanchik used acrylics on canvas to capture the essence of the shoes, marking them as a symbol of her cherished memories. Her artwork is both whimsical and poignant, showcasing the impact of nostalgia in her journey.
Visit the Exhibit!
Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious, Recollection at the Janice Charach Gallery is not to be missed. Open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, there’s ample opportunity to explore these heartfelt works through December 11. So, take a moment, step in, and let the stories and emotions captured in these pieces resonate with you.
