Erica Hitzman, “Attempt 1,” acrylic on canvas, 6’x4’, 2017.

“Don’t Blink” pop-up exhibition features works by recent art grad

La Grande, Ore. February 21, 2017 – A pop-up exhibition of works by local artist and recent EOU graduate Erica Hitzman, of Pendleton, is coming to the gallery at 103 Fir Street in the Sac Annex next to Earth and Vine.

A showcase of Hitzman’s recent studio progress, the exhibit comprises acrylic paintings on un-stretched un-treated canvas featuring a spilling technique in combination with detached or sleeping figures. These techniques, in combination with one another, attempt to achieve a dreamlike break from reality.

Hitzman aims to show strength and fragility in combination with one another by painting highly rendered images of a woman onto a less precious and tattered canvas, commenting on the weight of reality and the feeling of being exposed. She aspires to express the desire so many have to disappear from reality into their own dreamscape while also acknowledging the impossibility to do so most of the time. For Hitzman, creating this body of work has been – somewhat ironically, she says – a reality check as well as a small escape from it.

The opening reception for “Don’t Blink” is from 6-9 p.m. Friday and refreshments will be provided. The gallery is also open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25.

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