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Noriko Hirayama returns with Smith Rock
Village Frame and Gallery is pleased to present Noriko Hirayama’s show, Smith Rock, in the gallery in April. Read more about Noriko here.
Smith Rock
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From an early age, I have had an interest in archeology and geology. I am thrilled by the sophistication of ancient cultures and the raw power of the natural forces on the earth beneath them. In my travels to India, Cambodia, Indonesia, China, Egypt, Greece, and Central America, I was amazed by mankind’s highly developed artistic capacity and ability to harness nature in such a long time ago.
Since leaving my homeland in Japan and moving to Oregon, my interests have shifted towards gaining a fuller understanding of the monumental powers of nature separate from culture. I soak in the natural landscapes of the Western United States in my hikes and camping, I am continuously surprised by the geological treasures of Central and Eastern Oregon. Among these surprises is Smith Rock, which I saw for the first time two years ago.
Hearing that Smith Rock was a rock climber’s paradise of cliffs, I sought out more majestic geological forms to explore in the region. Upon visiting Smith Rock State Park to satisfy my curiosity about climbers rather than their medium, I was mesmerized by nature’s beautiful arrangement of large groups of rock faces. Each rock stands proudly with dignity after overcoming such long and cruel, climatic changes and geological forces.
In my return trips to the park at different times of the year, each rock face presents to me a personalized character and keeps me attracted. After struggling with painting these strong characters, I am gradually familiar to them. Whenever I now see them, I feel like “I am beginning to know you.”
–Noriko Hirayama
Spring has sprung with “Summer” and mosaic flower pots by Denise Sirchie!
We are all feeling it. The need to get out in the garden, feel the dirt between our fingers and dodge the raindrops. Yes, spring has arrived! What better way to celebrate than gorgeous new mosaic flower pots by Denise Sirchie. Joining these new works in our large display window is “Nesting,” a mosaic wall hanging designed for the bird lover at heart and “Summer,” a complex and lovely mosaic that harkens warm days and cool lemonade. Read about Denise and see more of her work at mosaicsnw.com.
Also in the window – Sculpture by Chas Martin
Chas Martin returns with “Free” and “Curiosity.” Chas’ playful and colorful sculptures seem to dance and swing in our display window. Read about Chas and see more of his work at chasmartin.com.
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It’s First Friday in the Village!
Village Frame and Gallery will be open late to host an artist’s reception in honor of Noriko’s new show! Stop in after 6 pm on Friday April 5th to see the show and speak with Noriko. It’s also a great time to see our cool spring window!
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The exhibit is open to the public and runs throughout the month during regular business hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm. We are located at 7808 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97219.