Transporting the viewer to a picturesque island off the coast of Maine, "Impressions of Monhegan," a collection of 16 works by artist Paul Niemiec Jr., will open March 15 at the gallery at Imago Beauty Group in Hoboken. Niemiec, who takes his inspiration from personal experiences in upstate New York and coastal Maine, works in a variety of techniques including watercolor, oil, egg tempera, and print making.
Well known and established in the New England area, Niemiec has been represented in galleries and taken part in shows nationwide. According to Imago’s owner Stephen Cunniff, "It is an honor for us to be involved with someone of Mr. Niemiec’s stature. His work is so stunning and full of emotion that I am sure anyone who experiences it will be drawn into the beauty and depth of his work."
Cunniff founded Imago in 1997. Although the space is an upscale salon, art has enhanced its atmosphere since its inception.
"The art in the salon is a vital component because it not only adds beauty to the space, but it is our way of supporting the arts and artists who often need and deserve recognition," Cunniff said.
The Monhegan show will reflect both Niemiec’s talent and versatility. In addition to two original watercolors, the show features two iris giclees (museum-quality reproductions in which the image is digitized and a continuous spray of tiny droplets produces clear and accurate results) and 12 prints, including drypoints and etchings. The giclees and the prints are signed and numbered limited editions.
Cunniff, who is very familiar with Maine, said the artist’s paintings and images invoke a sense of calm and mystique.
"I can stare at any of his Monhegan Island works and be transported to a magical place, which would certainly be a fair description of Monhegan Island," Cunniff said. "His work is simple in a way, but it’s also so technically strong and evokes a lot of emotion. It has depth."
When selecting work for the gallery looks for a sense of simplicity and elegance and seeks to create an uplifting and inspiring experience for salon clients.
"I think it should be something that gives a sense of hope, wonder, and adventure…. Art can just transport you to someplace else – that’s the greatest thing about art," he said.
Past shows at Imago have included "Men and Boys" and "Lit: A Study of Light and Shadow," both exhibitions of black and white photography by Cunniff’s sister, M. Cunniff.
The most recent show was "Butterflies of the Jungle," a collection of museum-quality, hand set rare butterflies from around the globe by local butterfly collector Jerry Howard.
An opening reception will be held at Imago on March 15 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. The show will continue through May. Imago Beauty Group is located at 113 Washington St. in Hoboken. For information call (201) 222-9355. For information about Niemiec’s work or to see additional images visit www.paulniemiec.com. q