Local Artists and Friends Collaborate for September Show at YMCA Community Gallery
A group of longtime friends with a mutual passion for art will share their talents in a combined show at the North Suburban YMCA during the month of September. Their exhibit, whimsically titled "Seven Chicks and a Duck," features multiple pieces from each artist in a variety of media. The group will hold a public reception on Friday, September 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.
The artists featured in the show include Kittie Yohe of Northbrook, Shirley Hutchinson and Peggy Kullman of Glenview, Pam Lee of Grayslake, Cheryl Sachs of Lake Forest, Nicole Patke of Vernon Hills, Shelley Cohen of Buffalo Grove, and Wanda Arrellano of Chicago. They were brought together through as students of the late Jean Poklop, a well-known Chicago artist/watercolorist.
"Jean was our mother hen," recalls Yohe. "We followed her wherever she happened to be teaching; The Art Center of Highland Park, Oakton Community College, and her home studio in Park Ridge. She was an enormous influence on us, and when she passed away in 2012 it was a huge loss. As longtime students, some of us working with Jean for 17 years, we decided we wanted to keep our group together and paint."
The artists meet every other Saturday at a studio in Highland Park to paint, critique each other's work, discuss art, and more. Most of the members are experienced watercolorists, but many work in other media as well, such as acrylics, oils, clay, and pastel to name a few.
"As we have grown as artists, we have influenced each other to a great degree, and a spirit of experimentation is always present," notes Yohe. "We feel very fortunate to be able to have a compatible, energetic, and fun group who have a passion for art and who enjoy each other's company."
For the YMCA group show, the artists noted the current popularity of chickens as themes in art and agreed to each create a chicken painting for the exhibit. (One artist, Shirley Hutchinson, opted to be different and feature a duck in her art, leading to the show's title.) In keeping with the show's theme, the reception snacks will give a nod to their favorite fowl, with devilled eggs and cheese and "quackers" suggested for the menu.
Alongside the barnyard art, each member will show several works reflecting her unique style. The artwork is for sale, with a portion of proceeds benefiting visual arts programs at the YMCA.
The North Suburban YMCA is located at 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook. Its Community Gallery presents monthly exhibits showcasing the talented artists who live and work in the northern suburbs. The Y also offers a wide variety of visual arts classes for children and adults. For more information, visit NSYMCA.org or call 847 272 7250.
About the North Suburban YMCA
The North Suburban YMCA serves 15 northern suburbs of Chicago, and for over 48 years has provided programs and services that address youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility every day. Working together for good is who we are: An association of people united in a common effort to help individuals become healthier, more connected, and confident. There is no other nonprofit quite like the Y: We have the national and local presence and partnerships to not just promise, but deliver, positive change, making sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. For more information, visit NSYMCA.org.