KAT HOUSEMAN | MARCEIL DELACY
EXHIBIT DATE | NOVEMBER 2-26, 2023
ARTIST RECEPTION: NOVEMBER 4, 2023 3-5 PM
We are delighted to present artists Kat Houseman and Marceil DeLacy at Smith & Vallee Gallery. This exhibit explores the unique perspectives and artistic approaches of these two talented artists.
Marceil DeLacy's work has always been marked by her distinctive style of carving birds and animals in the round. The intricacy and skill with which she brings these creatures to life is truly captivating. In this exhibition, she presents her signature sculptures displayed on pedestals, allowing viewers to carefully observe and appreciate the depth and detail of her carvings. Each piece of wood she works with has its own character and voice, and as they emerge from her studio, they become her welcoming companions. Through her art, DeLacy strives to release the unique voices of her creations, allowing them to resonate and communicate with others.
In the past two years, DeLacy's artistic exploration has led her to embrace a new technique that incorporates color into her work. She has developed a method of carving into solid boards and pouring epoxy inside, resulting in a smooth and glassy surface. This technique allows her to expand her artistic expression onto the walls. The sculptures presented on the walls in this exhibition showcase her mastery of this innovative technique. The vibrant colors and intricate designs create a visually stunning contrast to her carved sculptures on pedestals.
Complementing DeLacy's work is the vibrant and expressive art of Kat Houseman. Inspired by her upbringing and passion for wildlife and western art, Houseman's paintings capture the beauty and energy of nature. Having studied contemporary art in college, her personal style has evolved to emphasize bright colors, loose brush strokes, and a sense of movement. Houseman's connection to the Pacific Northwest is evident in her studies of shore birds and ocean mammals, which she translates onto canvas with striking realism and emotion.
Houseman works exclusively in the Alla Prima style, allowing the paint to flow and interact organically. The use of drips, washes, and build-up adds depth and texture to her paintings, creating a dynamic visual experience for the viewer. Her commitment to producing original one-of-a-kind paintings ensures that each work is a unique and deeply personal expression of her connection to nature.
We invite viewers to explore the diverse perspectives and artistic processes of these two exceptional artists. While DeLacy's sculptures invite contemplation and engagement, Houseman's paintings offer a vibrant and immediate connection to the natural world. Together, they present a compelling narrative of the intricate and multifaceted relationships between humans and the creatures that inhabit our world.
