In the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, May ushers in a wave of artistic expressions and cultural events that promise to captivate audiences. The month features an array of exhibitions, from magical realism in print media to historical photographic documentation of urban renewal. Visitors can explore new perspectives through mediums such as sculptures, paintings, and collages, each offering unique insights into the human experience and the evolution of art. Among the highlights are exhibits showcasing the work of Patricia Bellan-Gillen and her contemporaries, W. Glen Davis's gritty portrayal of Pittsburgh’s rebirth, and John A. Rice's spiritual exploration through tarot-inspired landscapes. Additionally, interactive events like Art Battle and community pottery sales invite participation and engagement with local artists.
An exhibition titled "Magical Realism in Print Media" invites viewers to delve into an imaginative world where reality bends under the influence of creativity. From May 3 through June 14, works by Patricia Bellan-Gillen, Leslie Golomb, Valerie Lueth, and Tresa Varner will be on display, employing diverse techniques including woodcut, lithography, intaglio, and screen printing. Each artist draws inspiration from literary sources, mythology, and personal narratives, crafting pieces that hint at deeper mysteries beneath their surfaces. This fusion of methods results in artworks that challenge perceptions and encourage deeper contemplation.
Another significant event is the presentation of "W. Glen Davis: Eyes on the Point," which runs from May 17 to August 17. Curated by Pat McArdle, this collection provides a fascinating glimpse into Pittsburgh's initial urban renewal efforts during the mid-20th century. Through photographs taken by Davis, who documented changes while working as an accountant in downtown Pittsburgh, audiences gain access to raw scenes of construction and demolition. These images capture not only physical transformations but also the essence of a city reinventing itself, using debris and rubble as textures for artistic interpretation.
Further enriching the cultural landscape is "Beyond Words: A Homecoming Exhibition by John A. Rice." Running from May 10 through May 31, this retrospective includes all 80 original artworks from Rice's Mindscapes Tarot series, reimagining traditional tarot cards within classical landscape painting styles. Accompanying these pieces are recent creations inspired by séance sessions conducted in Lily Dale, NY. By translating received messages into visually evocative paintings, Rice crafts a multisensory experience bridging spirituality and visual art.
Lastly, Chuck Olson's "Alternative Landscapes" exhibit opens on May 8, presenting abstract expressionist works that push boundaries in form and technique. Olson describes his process as one driven by decision-making and reaction, resulting in canvases layered with traces of deliberation. Meanwhile, Manos Gallery hosts three concurrent shows featuring Wayne Niemi's emotionally charged sculptures, Freddie Bainbridge's innovative takes on familiar landmarks, and New Kensington Camera Club's collective photography showcase, celebrating captured moments through varied lenses.
Beyond formal gallery settings, May offers numerous opportunities for direct interaction with artists. Events such as Unblurred: First Fridays on Penn Avenue, Associated Artists of Pittsburgh's Spring Thaw fundraiser, Union Project's Mother of All Pottery Sale, SPACE Gallery's preview of Three Rivers Arts Festival finalists, and Atithi Studios' Art Battle foster connections between creators and enthusiasts alike. As May progresses, additional openings continue to highlight both established and emerging talents across various disciplines, ensuring there's something for every art lover to enjoy.