Blue Skies: Now More Than Ever

The world we inhabit is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry, with its ever-changing blue skies and the gift of clean, fresh air. In an artistic endeavor that transcends canvas and paint, C. Parker Gallery unveils our latest exhibition, “Blue Skies: Now More Than Ever.” Through this unique fusion of artistic expression and environmental advocacy, C. Parker we aim to spotlight a matter of global concern – the quality of the air we breathe. This exhibition assembles works of art from a diverse array of artists, each offering their unique interpretation of the theme. 

The opening reception on Sept. 7th aligns with the United Nations’ Blue Skies Clean Air Day and we are delighted to welcome a special guest, Jamil Ahmad, the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs of the United Nations Environment Programme. The United Nations’ initiative emphasizes the vital importance of clean air for the well-being and the sustainability of our planet and brings together governments, organizations, and individuals to address the urgent need for cleaner air and healthier environments. This exhibition stands as a testament to the beauty that clean air and art brings to our lives, and aligns the United Nations’ goals with the mission of many individuals and organizations within Greenwich. 

Highlights of the exhibition are Rick Garcia’s paintings which ignite a sense of purpose and invite viewers to join hands in safeguarding the skies above us. His art captures the essence of optimism, transcending the confines of space and time ‒ exploring the boundless grandeur that the horizon holds. Garcia’s art was previously commissioned by the United Nations Postal Administration. His stamps brought awareness to the growing extinction of the rainforest and its inhabitants and the vanishing supply of freshwater, earning him the prestigious award of “Most Beautiful Stamp Series of 2003.”

Kay Griffith, who was also selected for her fourth consecutive year for the 2023 London Art Biennale, shares her artworks that dance with life, capturing the movement of air and the ever-changing hues of the sky. She embraces the color blue with unwavering dedication. A color synonymous with both the heavens and the purity of air, blue becomes the primary vehicle for her expression, as she conveys the awe-inspiring expanse of our atmosphere. 

In a world where our environment’s fragility has become increasingly evident, local Greenwich artist Felicity Kostakis uses her creative voice to raise awareness and inspire change. From her tranquil seascapes to her bold resin paintings, her broad range showcases her artistic versatility and ability to capture the essence of nature. Her resin abstracts urge us to dive deep into the intricacies of the artwork, inviting us to explore the layers and textures as we would explore the layers of our atmosphere. As the world grapples with the consequences of air pollution, climate change, and other environmental issues, Felicity’s artwork invites us to reflect on the clarity and purity of the air we need.

 

Lisa Cuscuna’s works are an invitation to escape into a realm where the sky knows no bounds. Her surrealism features ethereal clouds suspended in hypnotic skies, invoking a sense of wonder and serenity, portraying the sky with the hues of a thousand dreams. Cuscuna’s artworks capture nature’s essence, and remind us that the sky’s purity is a gift worth protecting.

Miami based Hamilton Aguiar runs the gamut between seascapes, landscapes, florals, and abstracts to evoke the natural elements. The sights and limitless vistas, smells, and sounds of the coast serve as tangible points of inspiration. 

California based artist Stephanie Paige’s love for nature has inspired a mesmerizing series, masterfully created with thick, textured acrylic on canvas. Her depictions of the environment reflect her personal journey into connecting to the world through meditation and presence ‒ cultivating gratitude, and existing in the moment, with the peace and harmony of our relationship with nature. Compelling meditation circles and serene sunsets invite the viewer to appreciate our planetary splendor.

Each painting in this exhibition echoes the urgency for change, reminding us that clean air and clear skies are not just idyllic aspirations, but essential requirements for our well-being and the well-being of our planet. So mark your calendars for September 7th and join C. Parker Gallery in this artistic journey that breathes life into the conversation about clean air and a sustainable world. 

International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies

#WorldCleanAirDay & #TogetherforCleanAir