A special exhibition of paintings by local artist Trisha Vergis will be on display at the Gratz Gallery and Conservation Studio in Doylestown through the end of the year.
Born in 1962, Vergis lives in Sergeantsville, N.J., and has a strong following in nearby Lambertville, New Hope and beyond. She is also a master woodcarver and conservator.
She takes a realist approach to her painting of local landscapes, activities, people, and seasonal fruits, flowers, and vegetables. Her style includes elements of Fauvism, with heightened colors with aggressive brush work, and trompe-l’oeil (trick of the eye) using realistic imagery to create the optical illusion of three dimensions. As a plein air and studio painter, Vergis prefers to paint alla prima, “all at once and wet on wet”.
“I feel my job as an artist is to bring joy,” explained Vergis. “I try to become very close with my subject, creating an intimate and parallel presence for the viewer. Painting, like dreaming, becomes about making personal connections to observations, memories, and impressions.”
She studied her craftsmanship and painting skills at institutions like Ursinus College, PAFA, Moore College of Art, and Philadelphia College of Art, along with apprenticeships with master carvers, painters, and conservators. Her talent was awarded by prestigious organizations, such as the 2017 Best of Show at Ellarslie, Trenton City Museum, Best of Show and First Place awards at Tinicum Arts Festival, as well as numerous inclusions at Phillips Mill exhibitions.
Gratz Gallery and Conservation Studio is located at 5230 Silo Hill Road in Doylestown. Gallery hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6p.m., Sunday 12 to 6 p.m., and by appointment.
Looking forward to seeing this exhibit when I get home, in September- are you ever there (other than the opening?)
You nailed it! You bring joy!