E L E M E N T S

Artists Leslie Landau and Suzanne Kirschner merge their perspectives and explore the potent forces of air, water, and ice, to capture the elegance and resilience of these natural elements. Their works create a layered experience of movement, light, and transformation, inviting viewers to contemplate the powerful yet transient qualities that define our natural world. 

Landau’s work centers on the ever-shifting effects of light upon landscape, drawing inspiration from atmospheric transformations that render the landscape momentarily visible, only to conceal it again in a new form. Her drawings and torn paper constructions encapsulate these fleeting interactions, offering visual interpretations of nature’s ephemerality. 

For Landau, atmosphere enveloping the landscape becomes a metaphor for life’s challenges and shifts in perspective—always evolving, shaping, and inspiring. 

Kirschner’s intricate, holistic compositions are informed by the patterns carved by water, air, and light. Her twisting lines and co-dependent layers evoke the rhythmic flow of water, the unpredictable play of air, and the illuminating touch of light. Using aluminum, copper, and gold leaf, she emphasizes memory, connection, and depth, allowing viewers to experience the resonance of emotion and reflection. 

Together, Elements provides a powerful space to consider the interwoven beauty of air, water, and ice, encouraging a mindful appreciation of these essential forces as both metaphors for life and sources of artistic inspiration.

A studio visit with Lori Barker

Lori Barker, approaching her 80th year, remains a living embodiment of the artist's spirit, continuing her daily visits to the studio with unwavering passion. Her commitment to her craft speaks not only to her dedication but to an enduring love for creation that transcends time.

Her home studio, a haven nestled in seclusion, is a space where creativity flows freely. Surrounded by the tranquility of nature, it is here that the whispers of the earth and the spirits of the forest inspire her evolving work. This intimate environment nurtures her artistic exploration, allowing her to experiment and push beyond familiar techniques.

When I arrive at her property, fresh-picked apples sit in a basket alongside Lori as she works on her front deck under a bright red umbrella. Her eyes sparkle with warmth, and her smile is as welcoming as ever. As we walk toward the labyrinth, Lori pauses to pick up a small treasure—a fallen leaf or a twisted branch—that she envisions weaving into a future piece of art. She walks with a quiet attentiveness, always open to the gifts nature provides.

Recently, Barker has embraced a new chapter in her artistic journey, venturing into uncharted territory with fresh materials and methods. This bold experimentation has infused her pieces with an ethereal, almost otherworldly quality. In her latest exhibition, R O O T E D, we see this transformation come to life in delicate, translucent forms that hover between fragility and expansiveness. Her studio, a place of deep reflection, mirrors the dynamic relationship between her art and the natural world that surrounds it. Here, Barker is in constant conversation with the trees and spirits that shape her creative process, drawing strength and inspiration from the silent wisdom they offer.

During a recent visit, Barker shared the significance of her walking meditation, a daily ritual that invites "spirit" into her work. As she moves through the labyrinth and later transitions into her studio, she enters a flow state where she feels most connected to the spiritual forces that guide her art. This flow state, a merging of mind, body, and spirit, is where her deepest creative energy comes to life. Each brushstroke or sculpted form becomes an extension of this meditative dialogue, a reflection of her communion with nature and the unseen.

A key element of Barker’s practice is the labyrinth she has crafted near her studio—a physical manifestation of her journey. Walking its path daily, she engages in a profound communion with nature, listening to the voices of the trees and the spirits that dwell within. These moments of introspection are imbued into her work, resulting in art that invites the viewer into her quiet world of reflection and connection.

When my visit draws to a close, it is golden hour, and the light on the leaves of a giant Ginkgo invites us both to stand beneath its towering canopy of changing colors. This final moment feels like a shared blessing, a quiet closing to the creative day. Much like the labyrinth, her art is a journey of discovery, leading us to explore unseen threads that tie together the self, nature, and the cosmos.

O P E N P O R T A L S

Artist Micky Jansen showcases a body of work, with her Open Portals series, that has been years in the making.

Open portals explores the symbolic and spiritual significance of life’s pivotal transitions, encompassing illness, recovery, and renewal.

Through bold colors and powerful depictions of female figures, Micky reflects on the strength and resilience that arise from these experiences.

This body of work delves into the interconnectedness of individuals and the moral values that guide us, evoking feelings of integrity, empathy, and a profound connection to the natural world.

Jansen’s artistic journey begins with drawing, which then evolves into various mediums, creating a unique body of work that is both visually compelling and emotionally resonant.

Open Portals channels her personal experience of breast cancer and recovery, using a minimalistic approach to the figure that invites viewers to reflect on their own interpretations. The focus on line work symbolizes life’s interconnectedness, with each piece representing the closing of one chapter and the opening of another.

Through this work, Jansen invites contemplation and introspection, offering a profound meditation on life’s continual cycles of transformation.

We hope to see you at the opening reception.

O P E N P O R T A L S runs September 27 - October 15

Closing reception October 25th 5:30pm

R O O T E D

Come view the new body of work on fabrics, from artist Lori Barker.

With a willingness to evolve and push the boundaries of her craft,  artist Lori Barker, ventures beyond her established body of work. 

Exploring new techniques and materials that breathe a fresh, experimental air into her work, has resulted in works that feel both delicate and expansive.  

R O O T E D  showcases a series of light, ethereal pieces, inviting the viewer into deeper engagement. 

The delicate interplay of form and translucency evoke the whispering presence of nature, rootedness and transcendence.  

Soft layers of transparency and texture, enhance the sense of fragility and strength inherent in trees, inviting a contemplative gaze.  The interplay of layers foster a sense of depth and movement, mirroring the intricate and often unseen connections between the natural  and the spiritual.

R O O T E D runs August 16 - Sept 13.

Closing reception Sept 13 6:00 pm

U N T A M E D

Welcome to UNTAMED, where the female form and nature converge in a celebration of life, freedom, and creativity.

VIbrant, rich colors tell stories of empowerment and sensuality. Each piece is a reflection of a journey, capturing the essence of femininity intertwined with the whimsy and beauty of nature. The florals and birds that populate there work are more than decorative elements; they are symbols of the boundless spirit and grace that is in every woman.

The women; powerful, liberated, unconfined by societal norms. The figures are confident, vibrant, and unapologetically themselves, resonating with the strength that lies within us all.

Explore UNTAMED and immerse yourself in this colorful world where nature and the female form come together in harmony. Here, life is a dance of freedom and beauty, —bold, spirited, and wonderfully untamed.

U N T A M E D runs July 12 - July 26

Artist Spotlight on Micky Jansen

In our commitment to creative community, we invite you to get to know artist Micky Jansen.

A recent studio visit with Artist; Micky Jansen.

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I had the opportunity to visit with Micky  at her beautiful Blue Amazon studio, tucked away under wooded canopies in the quiet solitude of Goshen; where her muses are the first thing you see when arriving at the property. Flowering Cherry and early blossoms on Red Maple are right outside the studio windows, as are the occasional bear.

Micky's art with strong female figures, tell stories of power found, of deep  healing, and of growth and conviction. She weaves tales of resilience, born from personal triumphs over adversity.

Having survived breast cancer, recovered from a paralyzing injury, and spending two years in total isolation on the Mogollon Rim. Her journey of rising from the ashes infuses every stroke with a profound sense of empowerment.

Sitting with Micky, I’m struck by her quiet strength, the same strength that emanates from her work. Her paintings mono prints, line drawings even sculpture; its clear that she has poured a piece of herself into every square inch of this amazing space.

It’s invigorating and it is inspiring. Mickys work, is a true testament to the transformative power of art and the indomitable strength within us all.

The a mano Gallery is proud to hold several of Mickys works and is excited to announce an upcoming workshop she is offering exclusively at a mano. More details to follow.

Cultivating Connection

There's a unique magic in sitting down with an artist, delving into their creations, and holding space for their portfolios, open to critique and questions. These intimate moments are truly invaluable to me. Each artist's work must speak to me on some level, and these interactions only deepen my experience of their artistry. For me, it's about being present with the work, allowing it to speak and resonate.

Sitting down with the artist or visiting their studios, sometimes intimate home studios that authentically reflect who these artists are, add another layer to the experience. These personal sanctuaries provide insight into their creative processes and inspirations, enriching my connection to their work. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to engage with more artists in this immersive manner, cultivating and fostering more creative connections.

The Creative Community Table

The Creative Community Table at a mano is where we offer classes to encourage connection and community through the arts.

Currently we are opening the table for Wednesday evenings from 5:30-7:30 for Free Collage Club. Bring your own fodder and collage materials, even something you’ve been working on, or use the materials we have here at the studio. We’ve got everything you need to get creative.

Come alone and meet new creatives or bring a friend.

Its FREE. Its Every Wednesday, begining on May 8th. and its only for a limited time.

There’s always a seat waiting for you. We hope to see you there.

Opening Reception

The once Fivepoints Annex, is now; a mano, a collaborative artists studio and gallery space owned by artist; Jenna Gonzalez. The opening reception for the new a mano gallery was held on Saturday, April 20. With a steady trickle of visitors, a mano opened its doors with live handpan music by Jim Lo Presti, light snacks and lots of art from a handful of different artists. We are off to a great start and looking forward to the ribbon cutting ceremony, with Mayor Elinor Carbone on Wednesday May 1. Thank you to everyone who showed support and came out to the reception. Community is everything to us. We are happy to be in the neighborhood.

Classroom to Gallery Program.

Our 'Classroom to Gallery Program' offers a bridge from classroom creativity to real-world artistry, providing a transformative opportunity for standout students.

Through this initiative, participants receive the Future Makers Award, recognizing their talent and dedication. By showcasing their work in a local fine art gallery, these students gain firsthand experience in the professional art world, offering them a glimpse into the life of a working artist.

It's all about community support and offering young artists the chance to explore their potential in a real-world setting.a Mano is delighted to be featuring two ceramics students from The Gilbert School in Winstead.

Congratulations Karen Mendoza-Garcia and Haelynn-Rae Derby