BACKSTREET GALLERY

Backstreet Gallery Welcomes Winners of Where Art Thou?

 

            In April, the winners of last year’s Where ART Thou? held at the Florence Events Center (FEC), Colleen Goodwin Chronister and Ronald F. Hildenbrand, will exhibit their work at Backstreet Gallery, 1421 Bay Street. In honor of these two multi-award winners, a reception will be held April 14, 3-5 p.m.

            Ronald F. Hildenbrand’s philosophy: create oil paintings that invoke “a quiet, peaceful mood, which is unmistakable ‘Hildenbrand’” He shows his mastery of color, composition and essential detail in a repertoire of oils covering a variety of subjects. He supported the Humane Society, doing portraits of pets won by the sale of raffle tickets.

            As a strong supporter of Florence arts, Hildenbrand became a founding member of Florence Regional Arts Alliance (FRAA). Their logo was designed by Ron. He has served as vice president and chairman of the Public Art Committee. This committee became a separate entity, which is now The Florence Public Arts Committee. Enjoy the outdoor art around town and expect more in the near future.

            Hildebrand’s paintings are also exhibited at FRAA.

            His efforts are hardly a surprise. His achievements prior to Florence include matriculation from American Academy of Art, a stint as an Air Force graphic artist, 10 years in commercial art, culminating in his own studio in Fairfield, California.

            Colleen Goodwin Chronister is a well-recognized artist whose art includes exquisite, powerful oil paintings. Her style pays attention to the detail that makes her signature oils so distinguished. Chronister achieves this distinctive quality with an umber wash. She first creates form and value and next add several color glazes to build depth. Her addition of precision details produces her final “visual statement.”

            Chronister’s work includes elaborate landscapes, portraiture, still lifes, murals, animals and more. She executes these pieces in both vivid realistic color as well as black and white.

            Her paintings have garnered numerous awards, including many Bests of Show and People’s Choice, from juried shows in California, Oregon and even as far away as Wyoming, Arizona, Missouri, North Carolina, Arkansas and Georgia.

            You will, no doubt, see her outstanding pieces around Florence at various venues and award- presenting shows, offering Colleen Goodwin Chronister reason to exercise her unique talent.

            Come to Backstreet during April to enjoy the artwork of these outstanding artists and over 20 regular member artists. Watch for special events honoring the Watercolor Society of Oregon whose artists will be exhibiting at the FEC and also at Backstreet Gallery in April and May.