By Patricia Measer
Jamestown, NY – The Roger Tory Peterson Institute (RTPI) is kicking off the 2023 season of its “Art After 5” series on Friday, January 27th. This monthly event provides guests with a unique opportunity to view the latest exhibitions of nature in art at RTPI in a more intimate setting, accompanied by good music, food and drinks. “Art After 5” began nearly fifteen years ago and was such a hit that it has become a local tradition. A different musical artist and food are showcased at each event.
This month, enjoy a glass of wine and charcuterie provided by Elegant Edibles, while listening to the smooth jazz of featured artist, The Assembly. Take a guided tour of the current exhibitions: “Curious by Nature: Works by Charley and Edie Harper”; “Chautauqua County en Plein Air”; and “Beauty Seen is Never Lost: Margaret Braun’s Birds.”
“Curious By Nature”, a collection on loan from the Springfield Museum of Art in Cincinnati, features more than 80 iconic works that celebrate the wonders of the natural world with humor, wit and the Harpers’ signature style of “minimal realism.”
“Chautauqua County en Plein Air” includes works created during RTPI’s first annual en plein air festival last September. The artists gathered for two days, working outside to capture local scenery in Chautauqua County. “En plein air” means “in open air.” It is a style that captures the natural light outdoors, and was an important fundamental of impressionism in the late 1800s. Its popularity increased in the 1870s with the introduction of paints in tubes (resembling modern toothpaste tubes). Previously, painters made their own paints by grinding and mixing dry pigment powders with linseed oil, a much more laborious and messy process.
“Beauty Seen is Never Lost” is a collection by Fredonia artist Margaret Braun. These works focus on birds, primarily paintings on glass ornaments, and have never been exhibited before. Braun’s lively portraits of birds emulate the sophisticated design of Art Nouveau style.
In the summer months, attendees can meet on the patio of the institute to be closer to nature. However, in winter, guests will join their hosts inside the institute, a building that is a work of art in itself and is affectionally know as “The Lodge.” Designed by Robert A.M. Stern, the building reflects several influences, including national park lodges, Greek temples, and the Arts & Crafts movement. Completed in in 1994, it was constructed by GL Olson, a local firm that carries on the craftmanship traditions of Jamestown’s early Swedish furniture making industries. The beauty and sanctuary feel of the building, combined with the intimate gallery spaces, provide a unique museum experience.
Tickets for members of RTPI are $16 in advance or $18 at the door. For non-members, the price is $18 in advance or $20 at the door. Advance purchase is encouraged. If you can’t attend this month, don’t worry – the event is on the fourth Friday of every month, so you have plenty of opportunities. You can also see the exhibitions during normal business hours. Adult tickets for regular admission are just $12 for non-members, free for members. Normal business hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10am – 4pm; and Sunday, 1pm – 5 pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the website https://rtpi.org/events/aa5-jan272023/