Lauralee Franco: Uniting the Internal and External Worlds

Lauralee Franco: Uniting the Internal and External Worlds

Exhibition Details

Location: Agora Gallery, 530 West 25th St, Chelsea, New YorkDates: April 1, 2017 – April 21, 2017Opening Reception: Thursday, April 6, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmGallery Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 am – 6:00 pmEvent URL: Agora Gallery - Lauralee Franco

The Artistic Vision of Lauralee Franco

Lauralee Franco's oil paintings are a testament to her ability to create a dialogue through art. "I use paint to begin a conversation," Franco explains. Her work is characterized by a dynamic interplay of textures, colors, and forms, which she uses to convey both external scenes and internal emotions. Her paintings range from serene outdoor landscapes to abstract pieces that vividly express internal moods.

Franco's art is heavily influenced by dance, which is evident in the rhythm and movement of her brushstrokes. The physical freedom and energy of dance are mirrored in her vibrant color combinations and dynamic compositions. This influence brings a unique liveliness to her work, drawing viewers into a world where contrasts are harmoniously balanced.

The Harmony in Franco's Work

Despite the energetic nature of her paintings, Franco achieves a remarkable sense of harmony. Her balanced compositions create a sense of unity and order, making the contrasts within her work even more powerful. "I hope to illuminate our true desires," she says, and her paintings indeed shed light on the hidden aspects of our inner selves. Franco resides and works in Sea Cliff, Long Island, where she continues to explore the depths of human emotion through her art.

Contemporary Perspectives: The New Art History

Agora Gallery's "Contemporary Perspectives" exhibition showcases a diverse group of artists who bridge the gap between past and present. This collective exhibition highlights how contemporary artists reinterpret classic themes with a modern twist. The exhibition features six artists, each bringing a unique perspective to traditional subject matter.

Featured Artists

• Lauralee Franco: Known for her dynamic oil paintings that balance gesture, motion, and energy.
• Fariba Baghi: Creates romantic landscapes with highly stylized patterns.
• Craig Frankowski: Paints florals with hyperrealism on irregular canvases.
• Stephanie E. Graham: Composes traditional portraits with saturated colors and animated body language, focusing on women of color.
• Gail Comes: Uses acrylics to create dramatic, imaginary forest scenes.
• Bobbie See: Places realistic figures in foggy, abstracted landscapes.
• Additional Artist: Works in ink and mixed-media to create meticulous botanicals reminiscent of scientific catalogues and 19th-century watercolor works.

The Intersection of Past and Present

"Contemporary Perspectives" is a testament to the ongoing dialogue between past and present in the art world. The exhibition features artists who draw inspiration from art history while pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. This blend of old and new creates a rich tapestry of visual experiences that challenge and inspire viewers.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Art Market Growth: The global art market was valued at $64.1 billion in 2019, showing a steady increase in the appreciation and investment in art (Source: Statista).
• Women in Art: Despite making up 51% of visual artists, women only account for 13.7% of artists represented in galleries in Europe and North America (Source: National Museum of Women in the Arts).
• Art and Mental Health: Studies have shown that engaging with visual art can reduce stress and improve mental health, highlighting the therapeutic potential of art (Source: American Journal of Public Health).

By exploring the works of Lauralee Franco and her contemporaries, visitors to Agora Gallery can experience the powerful intersection of internal and external worlds, past and present, in contemporary art.