North Suburban YMCA Welcomes Painter Erin Kaya for New Art Exhibit
Artist Erin Kaya will have her dramatic abstract paintings showcased at the North Suburban YMCA throughout the month of September. Kaya brings a passion for large canvasses and globally-influenced techniques to her work, now on display in the Community Gallery at the Y, 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook. Many of her pieces are available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Y's Visual Arts programs.
An alumna of Glenbrook North High School, Kaya has traveled widely and incorporates techniques and themes of other cultures in her work. She then adapts traditional methods with contemporary twists to create her signature pieces.
"Traveling throughout Europe, Turkey, Israel, and Africa for three years, I was introduced to and experienced their cultured and artistic methods," she explains. "Marbling is a technique I learned while in Turkey. It is the art of creating colorful patterns and designs by sprinkling and brushing pigments on a pan of oily water. In the days of the Ottoman Empire artists would dip paper and fabric into the water but I have taken this technique to a new modern level and photograph the water to capture the movement, depth, and texture."
Her work has a deeply personal connection, as she explained in an interview with Voyage Chicago earlier in 2018. "Painting and creating are my therapy, my passion, a piece of my soul. I can't always say how I feel but I try to express it through my work. Painting is a way to let me stop analyzing or stressing. Just relax and release my inner thoughts. Everyday objects intrigue me, looking beyond the form and seeing the abstract. My favorite paintings are always the ones I don't remember painting, I'm someplace else."
The YMCA's Community Gallery presents monthly exhibits highlighting the work of artists living in the northern suburbs. The Y also offers a wide variety of visual arts classes and opportunities for all ages. To register for fall programs, visit NSYMCA.org.
About the North Suburban YMCA
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2018/19, the North Suburban YMCA provides individuals in Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help them become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.