Local Artists Create a Sense of “Place” at Lubeznik Center

The relationship between people and nature is the focus of Place, an exhibition of recent works by area artists Phillip Shore and Sherry Giryotas, opening at Lubeznik Center for the Arts on Saturday, July 17. place

Shore, an artist and educator, takes inspiration from a rich variety of experiences and locales—from ancient Greece to his own backyards (both rural and urban). His palette includes a variety of materials: seeds, flowers and branches join with metal, resin and wood in sculptural works that seamlessly blend human form with items from the natural world—blurring the arbitrary lines between man and nature.

Sculptural and painted works by Sherry Giryotas reflect her intimate connection to, and careful observation of, the environment she calls home. Water, and the lush ecosystems supported by it, inspire Giryotas. Her creations evoke the sensory experience of the outdoors, rather than a specific item or vista. Large scale installations like the quietly floating boats of Journey are complimented by paintings that incorporate dried, locally collected plant matter.

Like Spring Creek which runs through their backyard, the works of Shore and Giryotas create an environment in which one can quietly contemplate our connection to the natural world. Place opens on July 17 and runs through September 12. Meet the artists and get a first look at the new exhibitions at a free opening reception on Saturday, July 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. (Chicago time).

The Lubeznik Center is located at 101 W. 2nd St., at the lakefront in Michigan City, IN. Gallery Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Galleries are closed on Mondays. For more information please visit www.lubeznikcenter.org or call 219-874-4900. All times are based on Chicago time.