TRANQUILITY - Small Group Show
September 1 - October 14, 2023
Featuring the work of Edward Acosta, Emily Martin,
Michael Sansone & Hillary Serota Needle
Edward Acosta
Artist Statement:
In my work, I am interested in expressing fluidity. As an abstract painter I create shapes and linear forms, which are meant to evoke of a range of motion. By utilizing high contrast in each of my acrylic paintings one of my goals is it to express a sense of optimism with bright, colorful and clearly defined shapes that are often times overlaid creating an interesting dynamic. I enjoy recreating the sense of light breaking through darkness, drawing inspiration from the beauty in sunrises and sunsets.
Bio:
Edward Acosta (b. 1982) is a New York-based Visual Artist whose work, unique style and technique are instantly recognizable for his perfectionist approach to line work and masterful use of color. Acosta has always been intrigued with art and has a strong passion for bold design. Acosta has worked with an array of techniques and styles that incorporates Pop Art, Street Art, Graffiti, Abstract Expressionism and Geometric Abstraction.
Emily Martin
Artist Statement:
I recently asked myself what is peace?
Is it an idea? Is it people? Is it a specific place? Is it just a feeling?
My current work explores these questions through a train of thought woven or printed into the surface of cloth. The work welcomes the viewer into moments and places of peace that I observe in the midst of the chaos and brokenness in the world around me. As I explore these places of peace, I realize that I find respite in nature. I’m consistently drawn to the textures, colors, and shapes that I find in the natural world.I collage materials to create sculptural surfaces that mimic the layers and shapes of landscape foliage in order to invite the viewer to take a pause and enter into theseplaces of peace.
Bio:
Emily Martin is a textile artist and educator currently working out of Long Island, NY. Drawinginspiration from textures found in the world around her, Martin strives to create multimedia work that incorporates mundane, natural textures in new contexts. Emily abstracts these texture’s qualities, inviting
the viewer to pay attention to the relationship between pattern and color. Emily is passionate about sharing her love of textiles with others. When she is not in her studio, Emily can be found hiking and enjoying nature while gathering more inspiration.
Michael Sansone
Artist Statement:
Working with transparent-watercolor and gouache, I have been creating a series of paintings exploring the preserve at Caumsett State Park on Lloyds Neck. Initially the work was driven by a need to find open space, fresh air and the rejuvenating forces of nature during the lockdown and isolation caused by the COVID pandemic. After observing the effects of passing hours, atmospheric conditions and changing seasons for long periods of time, the work has become a study of the forces of nature and the effects they have on the land and our psychic whims. As I continue to explore the geology, flora and fauna in the preserve, I have come to realize that the Caumsett narrative is without end.
Bio:
Michael Sansone, a Huntington, NY resident, attended the School of Visual Arts, and earned an undergraduate and graduate degree from Queens college, CUNY. From 1990 to 2019 Mr. Sansone was a Studio Art teacher at Manhasset Senior High School, Manhasset NY. In addition to general Studio Arts, Mr. Sansone created and was the instructor for the Pre-AP and AP Studio art program. He also created a comprehensive, year-long Life Drawing program held after school, two, three-hour sessions per night, two nights per week. In 2016, Mr. Sansone designed and developed “The Gallery of Fine Art at Manhasset Schools”. The gallery exhibited works by professional artists who are in national as well as international collections, local artists and Manhasset students. Prior to teaching, Mr. Sansone was an art director and freelance illustrator. Since retiring from his position at Manhasset High School in 2019, he has been focused solely on exploring his personal creative vision. His work has been exhibited in various group shows including the Firehouse Plaza Gallery, NCC, Woodstock Artist Association Gallery, New York Colosseum, National Arts Club, Huntington Art Council Gallery.
Hillary Serota Needle
Artist Statement:
Drawing inspiration and direction from my photographs, I trained myself to really see what I’m looking at. By breaking down an image into shadows, light, movement and color, I discovered the ability to breathe life into something of one dimension. I especially enjoy isolating an up-close perspective on flowers, whose patterns and complexities continue to amaze and delight – nature’s formula for the creation of something unique, imperfect and random.
Bio:
Hillary Serota Needle is an artist based in Long Island, NY, whose work in oil paint is reflective of architecture, flora, landscape and street scenes that she has photographed in her travels, however, the beauty of Long Island offers unsurpassed opportunities to create. The serenity of the East End, whether it’s on one of the undulating sea shores or in a bright lavender field, brings her to the canvas. Butterflies and birds take sanctuary in her backyard and she’s delighted to capture a moment of stillness amidst the frenetic flapping of wings.
She began painting in 2017 upon receiving a gift of an easel and supplies from her father, also an artist. Since then, her work has appeared in numerous shows and juried exhibitions. She is an active member of the Huntington Arts Council, Art League of Long Island, LIMArts, and the Smithtown Arts Council.
Main Street Gallery is open to the public Tuesday – Friday, 11:00AM – 4:00PM, and some weekends. Please call 631-271-8423 in advance.
With additional support from:
