The Arts Council of Big Sky will be hosting an opening reception on Monday, October 2, from 6-8 p.m. in the BASE Art Gallery. The reception is for the gallery’s newest exhibit featuring paintings from Sue Moncada, Carrie French and LeAnn Ramey. All of the artists will be present for the reception.
Susan Moncada returned to her Montana roots in 2017 after a 20-year absence. Following a career in Medical Laboratory Science, she abandoned her left brain self and has been working to develop her right brain muse. After several workshops with Bozeman artist Kara Tripp, she found palette knife technique to be the perfect medium for combining her love of vibrant color and rich textures. Studying with artists David Mensing and Robert Moore has provided inspiration for her landscapes, and her oil-based art captures the subject matter in a way that resembles a complex mosaic; an impressionistic whole made up of beautiful variegated parts.
Carrie French's work meanders along the border between representation and abstraction and reflects her impressions of place while examining the implications of a changing world. A native of Bozeman and graduate of MSU's School of Art, her color palette mirrors the Gallatin Valley's rivers, lakes, mountains and fields, while her imagery reaches for connection between spaces both urban and rural.
A native Nashvillian, LeeAnn Ramey worked as a graphic designer in the country music industry for over 25 years while also painting part-time. After relocating to Bozeman in 2014, she decided to pursue her passion for art and is a self-taught contemporary oil, acrylic, and mixed media painter. Ramey’s paintings are contemporary expressions of color and texture. She is curious by nature and loves the prospect of discovering something new when she paints — whether it’s experimenting with different mediums, paints, or subjects, she likes to have fun and explore. Her use of bold energetic colors and brushstrokes creates a fresh, vibrant and graphic quality in her paintings. LeeAnn is inspired by the beauty and wildlife found in Montana and enjoys painting abstracts, landscapes, animals and figures.
The exhibit can be seen in the Arts and Culture wing of the BASE Community Center. No BASE membership is needed to explore the exhibit, which will be open until December 1.