Nuances of Landscape

An intimate look at work by two Chicago artists. Mary Porterfield’s paintings question what makes an act heroic in the midst of circumstances beyond our control - symbolized in her pieces by natural phenomena such as geysers, storm clouds, and volcanoes. But take a closer look: the larger landscape is comprised of hundreds of small figures. Some depict religious individuals and saints whose heroic acts involved giving unconditionally. Others represent the struggle to balance such ideals with the need to nurture oneself. Inspired by the open spaces and far-off horizons of the Midwest, Nina Weiss creates powerful, expressionistic paintings. Going beyond the traditional “green landscape,” she presents a heightened vision of the natural world, using colors that are intense, lush, and dramatic. Weiss’ paintings capture her travels through the “everyday” vistas of the Midwest and beyond – teasing out the complexity of nature and creating layers of contrast, line, and form.

Public Reception: Thursday, December 6, 5 - 8 p.m.

Museum hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday.

For more information, call 847.635.2633, or visit www.oakton.edu/museum.