Juni Van Dyke | Alternative Colors for Dark Times: An exhibition of paintings that gives rise to positive emotions, Jane Deering Gallery, 19 Pleasant Street , Gloucester, MA.

Opening Reception Oct. 2nd, 2-5pm

Both nature and music are driving forces in my art. And, as I work, these words by Spanish painter Joan Miro are never far away: “I try to apply colors like words that shape poems, like notes that shape music.”

It has been said that one can live in the dreariest corners of the world all the while performing color miracles on the dreariest of days. German artists Nolde and Kandinsky did just that during the dark impending doom of war suggesting color to be more a matter of preference for expression rather than allegiance to source. Perhaps, color for these courageous artists was embedded in a sense of optimism and hope despite all odds.

I am blessed to live here on Cape Ann where the geography and the light has informed my work for many years. The natural beauty of Cape Ann sweeping across granite; coastal views; hillside vistas is an ever present force in my work. On the way to my job in Gloucester, I travel over the Annisquam river bridge where the ocean below is an ever changing marvel of light and activity awaiting interpretation. Using abstract forms, I invite the viewer to experience my work without interruption of title. Energized by the interaction, I find viewer interpretation fascinating and exciting — valid without exception.

— Juni Van Dyke, October 2021

About the artist

Juni Van Dyke is a graduate of the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and holds an MAT from Tufts University. Since 1996, she has been the Director of the Arts Program at the Rose Baker Senior Center, Gloucester Massachusetts; under her direction, work created by the senior citizens has been exhibited in museums and public institutions in New England. She is the recipient of several awards and grants, including the St. Botolph Foundation Award, Boston; the Massachusetts Cultural Council Grant; and an honorary citation from the Massachusetts Senate for her outstanding contribution to the arts. VanDyke’s work is held in the permanent collection of the Cape Ann Museum, Gloucester, Massachusetts and in numerous private collections. Her work was selected by Room&Board for inclusion in its limited edition art series and is on view throughout the US in Room&Board locations. Van Dyke lives and works in Manchester, MA. This is her fifth solo show with the gallery .

Gallery hours: Friday & Saturday 1:00-5:00 . Sunday: 1:00-4:00
and by appointment @ 978-526-7248 junivandyke@yahoo.com