Embracing Space

“We are a way for the cosmos to know itself.” – Dr. Carl Sagan

The Gualala Arts Center is pleased to present Embracing Space, an exhibition of large- scale oil paintings by artist Johanna Baruch. These works are part of Johanna’s ongoing Cosmos Series, paintings inspired by the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescope.

Johanna explores the intersection where science and art meet. Integrated into her work is her study of astronomy, whose astonishing revelations lead her to explore her own experience of the beauty, mystery and majesty of the universe around us. These combine to create visually powerful and moving works. She begins each painting by looking at images of far-off galaxies, nebulae, supernovae, and other celestial events. Then, in her distinctive style interprets them to create emotionally compelling abstractions that transport viewers into their own inner territories.

She has developed a unique approach to painting. Originally trained in the old master’s technique, she applies many layers of thin, translucent colored glazes onto aluminum panels to present jewel toned, veil-like surfaces. This technique allows for the brilliant luminosity of the light tones beneath to shine through while building up vibrant saturated colors and rich darks. Her work is detailed and meticulous, moving from moments of tranquility into dynamic explosiveness. She writes: “I look through the hundreds of extraordinary photographs taken by the space telescopes and read about the science and theories behind them. Then, I wait for one to hit me viscerally. That is the place I begin. I feel their breathtaking beauty, their mystery and tension of opposites – from blinding light to utter darkness, from supreme heat to inconceivable cold, from razor-sharp hardness to insubstantial nebulousness – all traveling at unimaginable speeds into the infinite boundlessness of our cosmos. I try to dance these experiences with paint and brush upon my panels.”

Johanna Baruch has exhibited her paintings and created site-specific installations nationally in galleries, museums, and other public spaces, with work in private and corporate collections. In addition to her artistic practice, she is a life-long student of the psychologist Carl Jung’s teachings, whose exploration of the complexity of the psyche and embrace of symbology informs and suffuses her work with depth and breadth. She has served on the Boards of the C. G. Jung Institute of SF, the California College of the Arts and the Djerassi Resident Artists Program.  She is also a former committee member of the SFMOMA Accessions Committee. She currently splits her time between Inverness and San Francisco, CA.

There will be an Opening Reception on Friday, October 13 at 4 pm. The artist will be present, along with performances by internationally known pianist, composer and presenter Kayleen Asbo.