Working in pen and ink, watercolor, acrylic, clay, and graphite, Mary Sterner Lawson is most known for her portrait sketches, in which she uses essential lines to reveal the inner life of her subjects. Lawson effortlessly conveys the nuances of fleeting cultural moments in her works using simple line work to give viewers the sense that they are peering into scenes filled with vitality and movement. There is also Lunch with the Artist on Wed., Nov. 9, 9:30 am – 1:00 pm at Gadsden Arts Center.

Lawson writes of her influences - “My extensive travels and sincere interest in people, nature, history, literature, archaeology, oral history, small towns, and city scenes has provided me with a wide-ranging foundation [for]... how I observe, interpret, and render the nuances of features and expressions…”. This exhibition invites visitors to observe Lawson’s fresh interpretations of famous artists, musicians, writers, and events of our time.

Exhibitions are open Wednesdays-Saturdays, 10 am – 5 pm. Exhibition admission is free for members and children ages 17 and under and $5 for nonmember adults. Munroe Family Community Gallery (60 linear feet): Located on the 2nd floor, this gallery features regional artists in our community working in all media and levels. Artists and artist groups can sign up for 3-month exhibition slots. The space is designed to be a learning opportunity for artists, with the opportunity to work directly with Gadsden Arts Center & Museum staff to learn about preparing artwork for exhibition, installing, lighting, and labeling.

The Gadsden Arts Center & Museum is located in Quincy, Florida, just 20 miles northwest of Tallahassee. Information: www.gadsdenarts.org or 850.875.4866.

Portrait Studies Gallery Guide

Image: Mary Sterner Lawson, Chubby Checker at the Mike, 2011, ink on paper.