Lynn Duryea, Slant #9, Terracotta slab construction, 24.5" x 8" x 6" © Lynn Duryea
Lynn Duryea, Slant #9, Terracotta slab construction, 24.5″ x 8″ x 6″ © Lynn Duryea

This new exhibition features new work from fiber artist Sondra Bogdonoff, the ceramics of Lynn Duryea and Paul Heroux, new abstract paintings by Jaap Eduard Helder and mixed media constructions by Jamie Johnston.

Fiber artist Sondra Bogdonoff will be exhibiting at the Turtle Gallery for the first time. Portland based, Bogdonoff has returned to the studio after a 20 year hiatus from full-time weaving. She describes the new work as a beginning and each weaving as it’s own short story. In addition to the weavings, Bogdonoff explores working on paper in a series titled “Stilled Life” which explores the grid structures and linear sensibilities of weaving in wax pastels.

Gallery artist Lynn Duryea will be exhibiting a new body of work she has completed since retiring from her tenure of teaching ceramics at Appalachian State and returning to Maine full-time. Through elemental shape and form, Duryea’s reference is to architectural, structural and mechanical elements.

Jaap Eduard Helder, Behind the Scenes, Acrylic on wood panel, 24" x 24", 2017 © Jaap Helder
Jaap Eduard Helder, Behind the Scenes, Acrylic on wood panel, 24″ x 24″, 2017 © Jaap Helder

Abstract painter Jaap Eduard Helder returns to the Gallery with a vibrant new series of paintings. Created over the winter and spring, he refers to the work as a re-emergence and re-commitment to his art. Helder creates in layers, working to create balance with new materials, on a new scale and with with new mark making methods. Largely working in square formats on wood panels, Helder creates vivid landscapes of abstractions.

Ceramic artist Paul Heroux returns with a new series of his distinctive forms and abstract compositions. Having worked with ceramic vessels as a painting surface for over twenty years, Heroux continues to reinvent the work using photo transfers, underglaze decals and metallic lusters. His folded vessels not only speak to his abilities as a painter but to his sculptural awareness – the folds of each vessel taking new lines and each foot finding a different path to the surface it rests on.

Paul Heroux, Folded double vase, soda-fired stoneware, 8" x 15" x 6", 2016 © Paul Heroux
Paul Heroux, Folded double vase, soda-fired stoneware, 8″ x 15″ x 6″, 2016 © Paul Heroux

Woodworker Jamie Johnston joins the Turtle Gallery with his show Constructions. His minimalist approach to design allows the woods inherent beauty to speak all while controlled by a masterful understanding of design.

In addition, Jewelers Glenda Arentzen and Heather Guidero will have full collections on display.

Opening Reception Sunday, August 6 from 2 to 6 PM – A vast collection of jewelry and contemporary craft, print collections and Sculpture Garden will also be on display. Light refreshments will be served.

Show runs through Saturday, September 2nd. For more information visit www.theturtlegallery.com