MacArthur Galleries offer double dose of ‘Perfection’

MacArthur Galleries presents Pat Boyer and Angela Oliveira in a show through March 10 called "In Perfection: Filling the Void".

Boyer, from Haverford, PA, exhibits her latest body of work, the "Arena Series". Done in mixed media on paper, the works in the series are studies of the coliseum, or arena, in Verona, Italy, which Boyer observed over the course of several summers.

Boyer's works reflect her fascination with architectural forms combined with an interest in motion and activity. The structural elements of the coliseum are visible, seen from a variety of perspectives, even as the structure seems to vibrate and rock with the viewer in some of the drawings.

In her quest for perfection, Oliveira paints layer upon layer of pigment, interspersed with found objects, on large planks. At some point during the process, she uses heat to bring out unusual textures. The result is a dramatic, well-balanced piece that expresses the artists intrigue with physical decay and structure.

"There's a lot of depth in something that appears so flat", said gallery director Sophia Nakis.

A native of Brazil, Oliveira is considered a major artist there. She has studied here and abroad and is represented in many private and corporate collections. Prices for her pieces in the exhibit range from $1,500 to $3,000.

While Oliveira's works emphasize structure, Boyer's drawings are more about movement and energy, perhaps a result of a childhood marked by a lot of moving from place to place. The drawings reflect her resolution of that childhood conflict, and range in price from $2,000 to $5,600.

Both artists present striking museum quality works, and both are exhibiting for the first time in Florida.

Appearing simultaneously with Oliveira and Boyer in the gallery is Haitian artist Philippe Dodard. His bold, colorful watercolors on paper reflect his fascination with the curves and substance of the female form.

The public is invited to a free reception to view the art from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday.

MaCArthur Galleries is at 100 Madison St, at Ashley Street, in downtown Tampa.

Hours are 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month. Or call (813) 221-5343 for an appointment.

Snyderman Gallery, 303 Cherry St. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Through April 26. 215-238-9576 or www.snyderman-works.com.