Striking art exhibit in Bartlett Village Hall on display through March 20
The new thing in movies is 3D productions. "My Bloody Valentine" and "Coraline" are the latest three dimensionals coming out of Hollywood, with more promised in the works.
However, artists in the Bartlett area knew it was hot long before La-la-land did. That knowledge resulted in the 2D and 3D "The Call of The Wild" art exhibit going on now through March 20 at the Bartlett Village Gallery.
"Everything old is new again," said artist Sharon Bechtold, who considers her entries to have a 3D aspect to them. "3D art really hits home. It makes you feel like you're there."
Bechtold, whose father and grandfather are also artists, began her journey in the genre when, at 4, she kept a journal filled with drawings of people and animals. Now, she uses a pyrographic method.
"Pyrographic art is painting, drawing, and engraving with heat. It's very unique," said the Bartlett resident.
Her work on display includes "Black Bear," which was inspired by a trip to the Piedmonts. "Wolf Family," came to be because of the animal's social interaction and expressiveness.
However, "Soaring Eagle" is her favorite.
"My passion is birds of prey," said the 43-year-old. "They are beautiful animals unbelievably engineered."
Streamwood artist Marlene Kessel has a watercolor displayed at the exhibit.
"I was just studying animals and insects and came across a photo of a wolf," said Kessel. "I wanted to work on one because of their thick fur and the light and dark contrasts on their face."
Cecilia Green is the coordinator for Arts in Bartlett, which is responsible for the exhibit. Green enjoyed Kessel's painting so much she purchased it at an art show.
"I love to share my artwork," said the 66-year-old. "It is my way of representing my view on life. I want to show the detail in things that people take for granted."
Green appreciates the artists' contributions. However, she is quick to point out that the show is chock-full of other things.
"Six local well-known people posed for a portrait reading 'The Call of the Wild' to dogs," said Green.
Some of those who posed included the mayor and fire chief. Additionally, local businessperson Jay Schack was involved.
"Being a biker, he wore biking attire," Green said. "He's shown reading to a puppy."
Teen Pierre Soler posed with a skateboard while narrating to his pet.
"We picked these two because people may not have an image of them reading classic literature," said Green. "They played a role in making reading appealing."
The display also includes a photograph done by Kevin Idarius, an Alaskan drum, and a bronze statue of a moose.
Winner's entries from a children's drawing contest are also posted. Winners include Shea Margaret Frawley, Morgan Speagle and Regina Lomonaco.