Reproduction of "Inspired by Sibelius (Violin Concerto)", 1998, by Catherine Parker, on flyer for Theme and Variations exhibition. Image courtesy of the Burchfield Penney Art Center Archives.
Theme and Variations: The Art of Catherine Parker
Past
May 1, 1999 - Jul 11, 1999
This exhibition examined work by watercolorist Catherine Parker, whose interpretation of landscape is characterized by bold brushwork and rich color contrasts. This series explored an emotional response to music in highly abstracted compositions. Direct references to music were reflected in some of her titles, with Bach, Beethoven, Copland, Messiaen and Sibelius identified as primary influences. In a symphonic manner, some of her work is melancholic, while most is permeated with optimism and a sanguine reverence for the land. Parker draws her subjects from New England, Western New York, the Southwest, California, and France. Related programs included a studio tour, artist lecture, and concert performance of a new work by Persis Parshall Vehar, “Parker Treescapes (Gallery Walk II),” which responded musically to Parker’s painting.
A smaller touring exhibition version was presented at the Western New York Public Broadcasting Association, (known as the WNED studios) at Horizons Plaza, Buffalo, NY January 17-March 31, 2000.
Both exhibitions were curated by Nancy Weekly.