Found Spaces: New Paintings by Robert Ross will have its opening reception at Arts on Douglas Fine Art and Collectables (123 Douglas Street, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168.) I have been fascinated by Robert’s work for years. He creates oil paintings that depict empty interiors and exteriors. They break up the canvas into well defined, sharp-edged shapes, with warm and cool colors playing off of each other along with warm and cool greys. They create a sense of deep space while evoking, to me, a lonely atmosphere.

This sketch is of an opening at Mills Gallery in Orlando. Robert walked through the exhibit with guests explaining his process. I liked his response to one patron’s esoteric question about the underlying meaning of what he paints. He explained that he simply loves the process of painting. Years from now the critics can read what they want into the paintings but his goal is to keep creating. He said, “My paintings reveal the beauty, mystery, and hidden life in ordinary,
overlooked places. My paintings often convey a quiet stillness, a sense
that something has just happened, or is about to happen. While good
design is always my starting point, I also want my paintings to transmit
the pleasures of light and color.”

Artist Dana Hargrove will also be exhibiting in the galleries alt_space. Dana’s work questions the ties that surround our daily lives, whether cultural,
political, religious, or social. She looks at how our ideals and values are
shaped by the fabric of our society and our identity within a nation. To me, her work looks like colorful shipping container architectural communities. 

The opening will be on on Saturday, September 7, between 4-7 PM. During this event, Arts on Douglas will be featuring the smooth jazz stylings of Trio with Ron Gilotti on the upright bass, Howard Post on the guitar, and Tyler Rosenke on the drums. Light refreshments will also be served.