Don’t Miss A Minute Of ArtSynergy Events In Conjunction With ArtPalmBeach2016

The Palm Beaches will be vibrating with art when ArtPalmBeach returns on January 20, 2016 to celebrate its 19th year at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. The fair will feature 85 international exhibitors, installation projects, art video labs, and SCULPT Palm Beach featuring a major large scale public art sculpture on the Palm Beach County Convention Center entrance plaza.  Art Synergy in collaboration with ArtPalmBeach will produce more than 65 exhibitions, January 15 – 30th throughout the nine Palm Beach County Art Districts during Art Palm Beach week. The nine art districts are: Antique Row, Artists Alley Delray, Boynton Beach Art District, Lake Park and North Palm Beach Art District, Lake Worth Arts, Northwood Village, West Palm Beach, and Worth Avenue.  The Rickie Report shares Highlights

 

 

 

 

 

ART SYNERGY icon 3 2016

 

 

 

Marjorie S. Fisher Gallery: ArtSynergy presents ‘Mixing It Up’ at Marjorie S. Fisher Gallery All Media Group Exhibition. Reception on Friday, January 22nd (6pm to 8:30pm) – $10 Entry Donation. Sponsored by Civil Society Brewing and the West Palm Beach CRA. In conjunction with ArtSynergy, ArtPalmBeach and the Northwood ArtX ArtWalks. Featured Artists Include: Julie Silk Beaumont, Steve Brouse, Anthony Burks Sr., Robert Catapano, M.C. Desorcy, Ren Dittfield, David Hayes, Greg Matthews, Craig McInnis, Henriett Michel, John Rachell, Barry Seidman…
Exhibition runs from January 5th to January 30th and is Free during regular Gallery Hours – Tuesday through Saturday 10am to 5pm.

 

 

Rolando Chang Barrero Fine Art Gallery will be presenting “Wet Foot / Dry Foot : 4 Cubans Conditions and Contributions.” Opening Reception January 15, 2016 | 6-9 PM. Continues through ArtWeek2016 in collaboration with Art Synergy and ArtPalmBeach.

 

 

 

The Urban Arts Lofts presents “Art Junction” on Saturday, January 23rd. The artists at the Urban Arts Lofts (UAL) invite you to an evening of sculpture, metalworking, photography, ceramics & custom built wood workings. The Lofts will feature several nationally known artists.For more information log onto: www.lakewortharts.com Studios open at noon. Special reception from 6-9 pm.Free Event!

 

 

 

ActivistArtistA Gallery presents “Snapshots! The Artist Gaze, opening reception January 28, 2016 6-10 PM.

 

 

 

Back Alley Art Festival The Lake Park Art District In conjunction with Art Palm Beach and ART Synergy we will be hosting The Back Alley Art Festival (Hopefully first annual)! Live painting and murals all night long.  Much more info coming so please stay tuned.  Food from Diner Dogs Inc. & Woodys Burgers Florida.

 

 

 

CONTINUUM is a pop-up art exhibition by Art Synergy in the Arts & Entertainment District in downtown West Palm Beach that takes place during ArtPalmBeach Week. Jan. 21 to Jan. 30 at 522 Clematis Street.

 

 

 

The Armory Center will be featuring three exhibitions during Art Palm Beach Week “The Women of Vision”, Rising Waters: an exhibition of recent works by Mags Harries and River: an installation by Mags Harries and Lajos Heder. “The Women of Vision” will feature sculpture, painting, photography, ceramics and mixed media. Rising Waters is an exhibition by Boston based artist Mag Harries it is an ironic and poignant commentary on the dilemma of “Rising Waters”-our inability to grasp it on an individual level and our societal refusal to deal with the effects of global warming already so evident in South Florida. River, the installation by Boston based artists Mags Harries and Lajos Heder of water, light, and shadow creates an apparition of a river from one bucket of water. January 16- February 12, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

 

 

Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts will be featuring a glass blowing demonstration with contemporary glass artist Laura Donefer. Donefer has been a driving force in the Canadian glass movement for 18 years, she has curated many exhibits to show Canadian work including a major one in Tucson, Arizona entitled “North of the Border”.  Partners in this venture are McMow Art Glass and Habatat Galleries.  Artists will be selling their hand made fine crafts from 2 – 9 pm.

 

 

 

Bold Beauty Project, ArtPalmBeach has partnered with the Bold Beauty Project and famed photographer Robert Zuckerman to bring the Bold Beauty Project photography exhibit to Art Palm Beach 2016. This innovative visual arts event showcases women who dare to expose their disabilities. The models boldly face the photographer’s lens, and through the process, they uncover their beauty, sensuality and strength to break the molds of conventional beauty.

 

 

 

FOTOfusion at the Palm Beach Photographic Centre is the International Festival of Photography and Digital Imaging. In its 21st year it will feature Portfolio Reviews by 100 Experts, Mini FOTOshoots, seminars & panel discussions, hands-on computer labs, multimedia presentations, photography & digital art exhibitions, book signings & gallery walks and fuse and schmooze parties. Jan.19- Jan. 23.

 

 

 

Whitespace Collection: Collectors Breakfast featuring artist Rita Montlack and her exhibition “XXL Photographs; A Historical Survey of Contemporary Photography”. This private collection art exhibition space will be open to the public for the annual Art Palm Beach Collectors Breakfast and viewing of this private collection and featured exhibition January 24, Breakfast- 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, collection will remain open until 4:00 p.m. Whitespace will also have a booth at ArtPalmbeach in the Convention Center.

 

 

 

Norton Museum of Art will be exhibiting Vincent van Gogh’s “The Poplars at Saint-Rémy , the piece was painted in the same community, and in the same year, as The Starry Night, during a period when van Gogh was hospitalized. Additionally, the Norton will be exhibiting the “Portrait of Mademoiselle Hortense Valpinçon”, which has been rarely – if ever – been exhibited in the southeast United States.

 

 

 

Society of the Four Arts Exhibition on Screen: “Henri Matisse: The Cut-Outs” Hailed as the most successful exhibition in Tate Modern’s history, you can now catch “Henri Matisse: The Cut-Outs” at the Four Arts”, featuring exclusive new footage from The Museum of Modern Art in New York. Acclaimed British actor Simon Russell Beale brings insight and emotion to the words of Henri Matisse himself, while actor Rupert Young (Merlin) narrates. Saturday, January 23, 2016 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., at the Society of the Four Arts.

 

 

 

Boca Raton Museum of Art presents Dames: Portraits by Norman Sunshine. During a period of convalescence when he could not paint as he once was able to do, Sunshine delved into the digital world of art making and searched for subjects of style and substance. In doing so he was taken with notable women; their poise, their composure, and their self-assurance. Among those who have posed for him are art patron Agnes Gund, philanthropist Nancy Kissinger, and Anne Sutherland Fuchs, former publisher of Vogue, Woman’s Day, and Elle.

 

 

 

The Lighthouse ArtCenter: “The Manoogian Collection: Two Centuries of American Art”. Considered to be one of the most significant private collections of American art compiled during the 20th century. This landmark exhibition includes 19th and 20th-century American paintings. Dr. Anne Palumbo lecture, “The Statue of Liberty as an American Icon” Thursday, January 21, 2016 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

 

For more information please visit: www.artsynergypbc.com

 

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

“Best Of The Best” Exhibit 2016 At Art On Park Gallery In Lake Park

Artists Of Palm Beach County‘s Art On Park Gallery announces “The Best Of The Best Exhibit 2016“. The Opening Reception takes place on Friday, January 8th from 5 – 8 pm and is free to attend. The Rickie Report shares the information and urges you to stop by, as the Exhibit continues through February 13th. Artists of Palm Beach County is offering a Free Admission Pass for 2 to ArtPalmBeach2016.  Stop by the gallery for details. Check out Calligraphy classes, Jewelry making classes, a special Mail Art Workshop (free) and the Back Alley Art Festival!

 

 

 

 

 

APBCnewlogo

 

 

“The Best of the Best Exhibit 2016”

Opening Reception:

Friday, January 8th

5 to 8 PM

Exhibit Runs January 04 to February 13, 2016

ART PALM BEACH

FREE ADMISSION PASS FOR TWO

WITH UPGRADE CODE

AVAILABLE AT APBC ART ON PARK GALLERY

Gallery Hours:  Monday – Saturday Noon – 6pm

 

APBC Art on Park Gallery
800 Park Avenue         Lake Park FL 33403
561-345-2842

APBCThe Best 2016 Card PRINT

APBC Art on Park is a gallery of local artists of all disciplines, bringing you original art in a variety of mediums and price points.  In addition, classes are offered as well as free workshops.  

 

 

 

Save $50 on any regular purchace
of $100 or more!
Get your GROUPON by visiting the website below.

 

 

Italic Calligraphy Classes at Art on Park Gallery !

Make your own Jewelry! On Tuesdays!  

 

 

 

The BACK ALLEY Art Festival
Friday, January 22, 2016
Noon to 10PM
Join us for a day of special events, classes, demonstrations and more! 10% off all items purchased at Art on Park Gallery. Walk the Alley behind Brewhouse, Art on Park and Easel Art Supply.

Saturday, January 23rd
from 1 to 2:30PM
is the date to save for the freebie class in
MAIL ART
facilitated by Jean Hutchison.

For more information:
http://www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.com/

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

Artists Of Palm Beach County Members Exhibition Includes 2D and 3D Artworks

The Artists of Palm Beach County Members Exhibit 2015 showcases artworks of varied media in both 2D and 3D.  The Rickie Report recommends you stop by Art on Park Gallery to take in all of the members’ creative efforts!  Everyone is invited to the Opening Reception on Friday, July 10th.  There will be an After Party down the block at Brewhouse Gallery. This Free Exhibit continues through August 8th. We share the details here.

 

 

APBCHeadera709a4_47a6d2594664439bbacdb512b45cbbbe.jpg_srz_p_960_309_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srz

 

 

Artists of Palm Beach County

Members Exhibit 2015

An exhibition of 2D and 3D works

Public Invited

Opening Reception:

Friday, July 10, 2015

5 – 8 pm

Exhibit Runs Through August 8, 2015

800 Park Avenue     Lake Park, FL  33403

 

 

 

After Party at The Brewhouse Gallery
starting at 8pm
720 Park Ave, Lake Park
(on the next block east of Art on Park Gallery)

 

 

 

APBCMember Exhibit 12 x 18 poster W

 

The Artists of Palm Beach County invite you to an exhibition of 2D and 3D works showcasing the talent of member artists.  A wide variety of media and styles will be shown. The public is invited to the Opening Reception on Friday, July 11th from 5 – 8 pm.  Art on Park Gallery is located at 800 Park Avenue in Lake Park, FL 33403.  The Exhibition continues through August 18th.  

 

Some of the participating artists include: Norman Berman, Jean Hutchison, Frances Lynn, Linda Ronzoni, Thomas Schmidt and Tanya Witzel and more.  Everyone is invited to the After Party at the Brewhouse Gallery, down the block, at 8 pm.  

 

 

Artists of Palm Beach County welcomes new members.  APBC offers gallery and studio space, exhibitions, opportunities to network with other artists, space for classes and professional development.  For more information please visit:

APBC Art on Park Gallery
800 Park Avenue, Lake Park FL 33403
561-345-2842
http://www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.com/

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

Norman Berman Exhibits “My Art, My Faith” In SOLO Show

Award winning artist, Norman Berman will be exhibiting his paintings at the Shirley and Barton Weisman Delray Community Center in Delray Beach, Florida. The exhibit will run from June 1, 2015 until July 10, 2015. There will be an Opening Reception on Sunday afternoon, June 7th.  Admission is free and open to the public.  The works displayed span the years from the 1980’s to the present.  The title of the exhibit, “MY ART, MY FAITH” emerged as Norman, in making selections for this show realized that his Judaic upbringing became a somewhat consistent theme in his abstract works. The Rickie Report shares the details and a conversation with Mr. Berman about his artistry.  

 

 

 

 

NEWnormanbermanWEISMAN SHOW ANNOUNCMENT -G-D'S LIGHT REV  5-15-15

WEISMAN DELRAY COMMUNITY CENTER

Presents

NORMAN BERMAN

 

 

“MY FAITH, MY ART”

Opening Reception:

Sunday, June 7, 2015

3 – 5 pm

This Event is free and open to the public

Exhibit runs from June 1 – July 10, 2015

Hours: Mon. –Thurs.  9 am – 5 pm
Fri. 8:30 am- 4:30 pm

7901 West Atlantic Avenue      Delray Beach, FL

(561) 558-2100

 

 

Norman Berman At The Easel

Norman Berman At The Easel

 

 

 

Although Norman Berman is primarily an abstract artist he has also created a series of representational works which he calls “My Tallis (Prayer Shawl) Series. These images were initially conceived as imagery for his personal Jewish New Year cards in his abstract paintings with such titles as “The Sabbath Bride”, “Our Father, Our King”, “Job” and “By The Rivers of Babylon” are some examples of the coalescing of his “art and his faith”.

Award winning and nationally known artist Norman Berman presents a survey of his works. Berman’s subject matter ranges from Judaic themes to abstracts. He’s been creating artwork professionally for over 55 years.  He tells The Rickie Report, “For me, creating art is a challenge.  As I look at a work surface, I begin my conversation with it.  The surface says to me, ’Create something, I dare you!’  Therefore, my adventure begins!”  As one listens to Norman Berman share some of his life-stories, you must pay attention to details.  Looking at his artwork that should be no surprise.  It is these tidbits that make the whole.

 

TRR:  What were your early artistic influences?
NB:.

 

The only artwork on our walls at home was my Bar Mitzvah portrait ( an oil on canvas that was painted by a friend of father).  My introduction to art was at age four, when I accompanied my father, a shipping clerk in a men’s’ wear company, to work. The women in the office gave me a piece of paper, a red pencil, a black pencil and plopped me in a chair with the instructions to ‘draw something’.  I drew the American flag to keep myself occupied.  Over the years, I started to copy and draw comic book characters (Disney, Superman, and Batman, etc.). My father would take these drawings and hang them in his workplace and change them around – it was my first public gallery!
As the United States entered WWII, I was fascinated by US military aircraft, so I wrote to all of the aircraft companies for pictures.  They would send me these gorgeous lithographic prints!  My favorite was the P38, a double fuselage plane and very impressive to look at.  Around the same time, there was a kid in our neighborhood who was already in high school and must have been an art major. I would show him my airplane drawings and he showed me how to create perspective images: not linear perspective images going to a vanishing point, but looking down at buildings as if you were in an airplane. 

 

 

"The River Styx" by Norman Berman

“The River Styx” by Norman Berman

 

 

When I was 10 years old, I broke my elbow.  It was probably the beginning of my escapades with brittle bone disease, but we didn’t know about that until much much later. While at Israel Zion Hospital (now Maimonides), I used to draw the nurses in profile, with their little caps.  In elementary school, my art was always hanging in the classroom and the halls.

 

"Job" by Norman Berman

“Job” by Norman Berman

As a Junior High School student, one of my teachers recommended that I attend the High School of Music & Art. Living in Brooklyn, it was an hour and a half subway ride in the morning and evening rush hours which my parents weren’t happy about. We happened to live close to the neighborhood high school, Abraham Lincoln High School.  As a result, I ended up going to Lincoln which had a fabulous art department! That’s where I got my real training, in my approach to art.  In 10th grade, Herbert W. Yates got me interested in the importance of art history.
I started saving articles from “Life Magazine” that related to art and artists.  My father would pick up a copy at the newsstand every Saturday. I finally convinced him that it would be more convenient and less expensive to get a subscription!  After reading the entire magazine, I categorized the pictures with my own filing system into red envelopes.  My mother, who was also a voracious reader, would buy other magazines like ‘McCall’s’ and ‘Ladies Home Journal’.  Those magazines happen to have some of the top-notched illustrators of the time.

 

TRR:  Norman shares his “beshert” (Yiddish for “meant to be”) moment.  He takes us back to 1950.

NB:

Leon Friend was the Chairman of the Art Department and I was sitting in his Graphic Arts class – last row, second seat.  Leon says,’ DO YOU KNOW WHO SAT IN YOUR SEAT? ‘  I said, ‘No.’  Friend said, ‘Alex Steinweiss’.  This was like mentioning God!   Alex Steinweiss was an early graduate from Lincoln, who after graduating from Parsons School of Design, worked for Columbia Records. Steinweiss convinced his employers to change their marketing strategy to sell their long playing records.  Instead of wrapping the records in brown paper, they should create a book with the record inside.  Each book would have artwork on its cover.  Alex Steinweiss was responsible for the entire industry of record albums cover designs!

 

"Silent Devotion" by Norman Berman

“Silent Devotion” by Norman Berman

 

 

 

During my senior year, I prepared a portfolio and sent it out to the School Art League.  It is now May, 1952.  Mr. Friend comes into class and asks who we think should be the happiest person in the room today.  And then he says, ‘Norman, it’s you!  You just won the scholarship to Parsons School of Design! ‘I’m thinking that I’m following in the steps of Alex Steinweiss! I literally “fell out of my chair”!  In those days, we didn’t have cell phones.  I couldn’t even go down to the office to call my mother!   When I finally got home and shared my good news, my mother thought it was very nice.  Then we waited until my father came home to tell him.  I had already been accepted to tuition-free Brooklyn College.  What to do…  His father, a product of the Great Depression, didn’t want Norman to accept the scholarship.  (What if it wasn’t renewed after a year – they couldn’t afford tuition; what about the cost of supplies; they also wanted to send his brother to college in just more three years).

 

TRR: Norman returned to school and tell Mr. Friend the news. This dedicated teacher stayed until 7 pm the next evening to meet with Norman’s father in an attempt to convince him, even offering an extra $100. from the “Art Squad” to help defray costs. The answer was the same.  Norman’s father understood the need to be pragmatic. Norman would go to college, become a teacher and get a job.
NB:

 

That summer I didn’t have a job. I walked the streets telling myself that I was going to Brooklyn College.  I psyched myself up about meeting new people and having new experiences. I had four good years at BC.

 

TRR:  Norman graduated from Brooklyn College and went back to his alma mater, Abraham Lincoln High School to student teach.

 

"Sabbath Bride" by Norman Berman

“Sabbath Bride” by Norman Berman

 

In September, 1960, Norman was set up by his brother’s fiancée on a blind date with a girl named Ethel.  The rest is history!  They have 2 children and 4 grandchildren. Ethel and Norman were married for almost 52 years. She was his strength, his staunchest supporter, his severest critic and the love of his life. As Norman points out, if he had gone to Parsons, he would not have ended up being introduced to his “beshert”, Ethel.  His first date was on Ethel’s birthday. They were married for 52 years… She passed away in July of 2013.

 

 

"Neshema" by Norman Berman

“Neshema” by Norman Berman

 

NB:

After graduating with my BA and MA from Brooklyn College, I taught Junior High and moved on to High School.  I concentrated on teaching painting as part of the curriculum, along with art history and color theory. From my own experiences, I encouraged my students to learn and research their subjects.  Research is an essential part of any good piece of artwork!   My favorite part of the curriculum was teaching painting.  I was privileged to have a number of students from the “Art Talent Classes”.  These were students who took art classes five days a week and showed promise.  I continued teaching and eventually became a supervisor (Assistant Principal) .  I taught in a few different schools and in 1983 was awarded the ‘Art Educator Award’ from the New York City Art Teacher’s Association/UFT and the Art Chairman’s Association in recognition of my outstanding service and commitment to art education.  I also held the rank of Adjunct Assistant Professor of Art at Queensborough College where I taught painting, drawing, two-dimensional design, advertising design and art history.  I finally retired in January, 1991.

 

"Our Father Our King, Aveenu Malkainu" Oil on Canvas by Norman Berman

“Our Father Our King, Aveenu Malkainu” Oil on Canvas by Norman Berman

 

 

TRR:  Tell us more about your own artwork.  On your website, you differentiate between two different types of art.  One is the “Prayer Shawl Series” and then “the rest”.

NB:

There is an interrelationship.  Some of my larger paintings incorporate Hebrew words from Jewish prayers.  The ‘Lecha Dodi’ piece that was on the Armory Art Center invitation, is from the prayer service which welcomes the Sabbath, as a bride.  Another powerful piece of bright yellow hues titled ‘AveenuMalkeinu’ (Our Father, Our King”, comes from the High Holy Day liturgy.   I created the ‘Prayer Shawl (‘Tallis’) Series’, one for each year’s Jewish New Year’s card for my family. These watercolors are representational in style.

 

"Minyan" by Norman Berman

“Minyan” by Norman Berman

 

 

During my studies at Brooklyn College, three or four faculty members really influenced me: Jimmy Ernst (son of Max), Carl Robert Holty( a disciple of Mondrian), and Harry Holtzman.  Stylistically, Jimmy showed me how calligraphy and linear work can influence a piece of artwork; how to allow just enough, without overpowering the piece.  Holty was a great “colorist” He taught me to take Mondrian’s rectangles and squares and change their edges from white to various tints and shades of color, allowing work to “float” in one plane over the other.  He helped me capture my creative imagination through color relationships.  Holty subscribed to Hans Hoffman’s theory of “Push and Pull”.  Holtzman, who never taught studio, explained the theory of modern art, abstract theory and how to analyze what the creative process was all about.  He was one of the people who managed to help Mondrian get into the U.S.  The faculty of Brooklyn College in the 50′s and 60′s were influential artists, bringing new ideas and changes to the art world. They were the top names in the Abstract Expressionist Movement.  Having Mark Rothko as a teacher certainly influenced me. I subscribe to the Abstract Art Movement’s credo “The act of painting is more important than the product.  As Mark Rothko says, “My paintings are made to engulf you.” There is a definitive biography of Rothko and I like one of his quotes which is “ART IS AN ADVENTURE INTO AN UNKNOWN WORLD, WHICH CAN BE EXPLORED ONLY BY THOSE WILLING TO TAKE RISKS.” Each time I start a new work, I am moving into an unknown world and taking new risks. That is what keeps me going!

 

"Lake of the Snow Moon" by Norman Berman ( Art Of Association Winner, 2014 at Lighthouse ArtCenter)

“Lake of the Snow Moon” by Norman Berman ( Art Of Association Winner, 2014 at Lighthouse ArtCenter)

 

At the same time as I was teaching, I was also creating and showing my own work.  I believe strongly that to be able to teach art, you must be involved in the creative process yourself!  You have to live through the agony of that blank canvas and the ecstasy of a finished piece of art.

TRR:  Does your art tell a story?
NB:

 

Good question!  Usually, my art does not tell a story because I normally don’t create narrative pieces of work. My piece, ‘Lake of Snow Moon’ is unusual in that aspect, for me. The initial little study for it (which I rarely do) was based on the weeds and reeds that I see every day from my kitchen window. When I decided to enlarge it to a full size watercolor the weeds and reeds became snow-covered pine trees. The title “The Lake of the Snow Moon” comes from the fact that the nickname for the full moon in February/March is called the “Snow Moon”. This painting was the second place ribbon recipient at the 2014 Art of Association Show at the Lighthouse Museum.   The toughest part of being an abstract painter is when people ask me , ‘well, what is that supposed to be?’  If my response is that I cannot tell them and they have to determine that for themselves, it sounds dismissive.  I don’t want to be that way.  The spectator has to be willing to engage and think and wonder ‘what does that look like?’ ‘what does it tell me’? I cannot do that for them.  I like the subtlety of color relationships and that shows in a majority of my work.  Even after graduation from Brooklyn College, I would go to Carl Holty’s studio and show him my work and talk about these theories.  Then I started to show my work in galleries in Greenwich Village, eventually moving to galleries uptown.

 

 

"Tekiyah" by Norman Berman

“Tekiyah” by Norman Berman

 

 

TRR:  What is your favorite part of being an artist?
NB:

 

When the piece is ready to sign!  Once I do that, I never go back to rework the painting.  I also like to see my work in a venue other than the walls in my house. The works look totally different in a gallery. I’ve exhibited widely in the New York Metropolitan area and my work appears in numerous private collections across the country.  The Queensborough Community College Gallery has my work in its permanent collection.  My work has been displayed in libraries, synagogues and churches in Nassau and Suffolk Counties in New York as well as the Polish Consulate in Manhattan, the GE Gallery in Schenectady, NY and the SONY Gallery in New York City.

 

 

"Slowly Comes The Night" by Norman Berman

“Slowly Comes The Night” by Norman Berman

 

TRR:  What tips would you give beginning artists?
NB:

Don’t be afraid to do what you want to do!  Your images will grow and your style will develop. That is OK.  For me, selling my work is a secondary thought.  I love what I do.  But, at the same time, don’t be afraid to market yourself.  I know this is difficult because one is fearful thinking about it.  Most artists aren’t trained to sell their work.

 

 

 

 

"Eclipse" by Norman Berman

“Eclipse” by Norman Berman

TRR:  Can you take us through the process of a painting?
NB:

 

 

"Clock-Wise-Counter-Clockwise" by Norman Berman

“Clock-Wise-Counter-Clockwise” by Norman Berman

 

 

When we relocated to Florida, I moved away from working with oils.  Now I use watercolor.  I start out with a blank sheet of paper and add floating colors next.  After that, I bring in wide calligraphic lines, getting thinner and thinner to create an intricate ‘lace-like’ network. The final effort is to come up with a title.  I rarely work from sketches or small studies.  I put up a piece of illustration board, watercolor paper or canvas). I don’t buy this notion that art is for self-enjoyment. (That is for the hobbyist who is “making pictures”). Art is a challenge and hard work. I have to let my mind and brain create images through my hand that I find pleasing, interesting and challenging.  The one thing about the 1950′s and 1960′s about theories expounding at Brooklyn College was that the act of painting was more important than the product.  If you finish the product and you like it, sign and you’re done.  Fine.  If you finish a product that you don’t like, it is also fine to rip it up and throw it away.   In fact, in Mark Rothko’s class, he would have you create a piece of art, then tear it up and reconstruct it!

 

 

When I am finished with a painting, I sign it and that’s it!  That’s not a “beshert” moment.  It is an “Aha” moment.   When you look at your piece and know that it is enough, you are done.  If you’re not sure, stop painting and turn the piece facing the wall.  Turn it around and look at it in another 6 weeks.  Look at it with fresh eyes.  My best and most instant critic was Ethel…

 

"Neilah" by Norman Berman

“Neilah” by Norman Berman

 

TRR:  How do you recharge your creativity?
NB:

I like read about “art” whether in fiction or non-fiction.  When I reread two of my favorite books, “My Name is Asher Lev” and “The Gift of Asher Lev” by Chaim Potok, the words deeply move me. While I was not as prolific as the fictional Asher Lev, I had many of the same experiences as he did, growing up in Brooklyn and although locales were “fictionalized” I knew exactly where they were.  I also enjoy Daniel Silva who’s protagonist is Gabriel Alon, an Israeli Mossad agent as well as a world famous art restorer.  I read books about artists. Their concepts and approaches to creativity help me, as you put it, to recharge my own creativity. As an adjunct to my paintings I am a “serious amateur photographer. I am the president of my community photo club. My approach to photograph is similar to my approach to my paintings. I look for the abstract elements in the subjects that I photograph. That is a way that I am constantly aware of the visual world around which eventually can be incorporated into my works.

 

 

 

 

TRR:  Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
NB:

I do have a physical limitation, which prevents me from working on large canvases, which I used to do in oils and in acrylics. I was diagnosed with ‘brittle bone disease’ (osteogenesisimperfecta). Because of my disability, I limit myself to working on full sheet or a double elephant size Arches’ Bright White 300 lb. Cold Press paper or 140 lb. Arches Bright White paper.  In reading a research paper about OI, it stated that those with the disease tend to be very optimistic people, with strong motivations.  We get up.  We do.  We are positive.  I hope more people find out about the OI Foundation.wwwOIF.org   My granddaughter, Mira, uses art as an outlet because she cannot run around like other kids, due to this brittle bone issue.

 

 

Norman Berman's "Self Portrait, Soul's Journey"

Norman Berman’s “Self Portrait, Soul’s Journey”

TRR: In 2012, Norman served as Coordinator for the Artists of Palm Beach County’s exhibit at the Armory Art Center.  He had no idea how complex this administrative job would become.  He comments, “Being an educator gives you a multiplicity of skills”.  He is a member on the Board of Directors of the Artists of Palm Beach County (APBC).

 

 

 

 

For more information, please contact
Norman Berman

561.434.0605

 www.normanberman.com

or  normberman12@gmail.com

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

FREE Art Events Sponsored By Artists Of Palm Beach County Include Norman Berman Presentation And Art Critique By Jeff Lucas In Addition To Call For Emerging Artists

Artists of Palm Beach County announces two free Saturday events at the Art on Park Gallery plus a Call To Emerging Artists.  On Saturday, May 9thNorman Berman will present “The Metamorphosis of a Painting” with slides and discussion.  On Saturday, May 16th, Jeff Lucas will present “Improve My Art – Critique Session, Everyone is a Critic!” Participants are invited to bring up to three pieces of art and receive constructive feedback in a friendly atmosphere.  The Rickie Report shares the details and urges EMERGING ARTISTS of 2D and 3D work to apply for the next Exhibit (Deadline is May 13th)!  We want to remind ART LOVERS that this Gallery is a treasure trove of hand crafted glass, watercolors, original collages, hand crafted jewelry, original photography, oil paintings and acrylic paintings  as well as pastels. Many of the artists calling Art on Park “home” sell nationally and internationally. Stop by! Florida The Beautiful, 2015″ runs until May 16th.

 

 

 

 

APBCHeadera709a4_47a6d2594664439bbacdb512b45cbbbe.jpg_srz_p_960_309_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srz

 

ARTISTS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY

INVITES EVERYONE

MAY EVENTS:

Art on Park Gallery

800 Park Ave.        Lake Park FL 33403

561-345-2842

Gallery Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12 to 6 PM

FLORIDA THE BEAUTIFUL 2015

An exhibit to showcase the Environmental Beauty of Florida to benefit the Sierra Club Loxahatchee Group.  15% of sales will be donated.

Exhibit Runs Until May 16, 2015

 

“Metamorphosis Of A Painting”

With Norman Berman

Saturday, May 9th

2 – 4 pm

 

On Saturday, May 9th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm the Artists of Palm Beach County (APBC) is proud to present a talk and slide presentation by award winning artist and executive board member, Norman Berman. The event entitled “The Metamorphosis of a Painting” will take place at the Art on Park Gallery, 800 Park Avenue, Lake Park, Florida.

 

Norman Berman at the easel

Norman Berman at the easel

 

 

Norman has been a member of APBC for over 4 years and has exhibited widely in Palm Beach County. In November of 2013 his “One-Man Show” at the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach was met with much acclaim. A retired New York City teacher and supervisor/administrator, Norman exhibited in the New York City area before his move to Florida in 2003. His talk will describe how he creates a painting from start to finish and will be supplemented with a series of slides showing the progress of his work.  Norman will be exhibiting at a SOLO show at the Weisman Center, Delray Beach at the end of May.

 

 

 

 

Landscape by Jeff Lucas

Landscape by Jeff Lucas

 

 

“Improve My Art – Critique  Session

Everyone is a Critic!”

With Jeff Lucas

Saturday, May 16th

1 – 3 pm

 

 

On Saturday, May 16 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm Art on Park Gallery resident artist, Jeff Lucas, will present “Improve My Art – Critique Session, Everyone is a Critic!” Participants are invited to bring up to three pieces of art and receive constructive feedback in a friendly atmosphere. Jeff will guide the discussion as the group reviews each piece and learns more about how to look at one’s art with fresh eyes. Jeff, who has taught watercolor classes in the past, is best known for his exquisite watercolors, which can be seen in the gallery.

 

UPCOMING EXHIBITS:

 

Emerging Artists 2015

An exhibit to showcase the talent of emerging artists in Palm Beach County, Florida
An exhibition of 2D and 3D works

May 20 to June 27, 2015

Public Opening Reception:

Friday, May 22, 2015    5 – 8 pm

Everyone Welcome to:

After Party at The Brewhouse Gallery
starting at 8pm
720 Park Ave, Lake Park

 

 

Submission deadline:
Wednesday, May 13, 2015

To access the submission form go to:
http://www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.org/eventdetail.php?266

 

 

For More Information please visit:

APBC Art on Park Gallery
800 Park Avenue, Lake Park FL 33403
561-345-2842
http://www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.com/

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

Jupiter, Tequesta, Palm Beach Gardens and Lake Park Venues Offer Free Exhibits, Gallery Tours, Open Houses and Demonstrations

Art venues in Jupiter, Tequesta, Palm Beach Gardens and Lake Park are opening their doors to residents and visitors, as ArtPalmBeach and Art Synergy’s ARTWEEK 2015 swing into action.  The Rickie Report shares a brief overview of the events everyone can participate in at no charge!

 

 

 

ArtsyngeryARTWEEK2015image003

 

North Arts and Lake Park Districts

Thursday, January 22, 2015

1:00 -5:00 pm

 

ArtSynergyEaselPanoram115

 

EASEL ART SUPPLY

810 Park Avenue       Lake Park, FL 33403

 

Stop by this locally owned “Mom and Pop” Art and Drafting Supplies haven. Open House. Enjoy refreshments at this emporium of artist’s tools and supplies, framing shop, art classes and workshops. Artist Demonstrations will take place throughout the afternoon and include: David McEwen (Internationally Renown Equestrian Artist), Drawing with Craig McInnis, Watercolor with Diane Hutchinson, Oil painting with John D’Auria and Acrylic Painting with Dan Remmel. Have your FREE caricature drawn by Captain Cartoon! 20% discount on non-sale art supplies.   

(561) 844-3111 www.facebook.com/easelartpalmbeach

 

 

 

 

3 to 5 p.m.

 

MANDEL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

5221 Hood Road        Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 

Tour of exhibition “A Family Affair:

The Paintings of Alan and Michael Friedlander”

This exhibition celebrates the art of brothers Alan and Michael Friedlander which includes large-scale abstract watercolors and acrylics. Alan’s portraits and Michael’s watercolors showcase the beauty of their artistry and their bond through art.  Jewish Film Festival various dates and times.  Contact:Talya R Lerman  Cultural Arts Director  Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches  (561) 712-5209 talyal@jcconline.com       561-712-5200 

 

ROSETTA STONE FINE ART GALLERY

1001 Jupiter Park Drive, Suites 121 & 122        Jupiter, Florida 33458

 

Retrospective of JB Berkow artwork with wine and hors d’oeuvres.

 561-743-3340 RosettaStoneFineArt.com   Contact: JoAnne Berkow 561.310.9371

 

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

 

lighthouse artcenter logo

 

 

LIGHTHOUSE ARTCENTER MUSEUM, GALLERY

& SCHOOL OF ART

Gallery Square North    373 Tequesta Drive      Tequesta, FL. 33469

 

Open House with hors d’oeuvres, wine and live music in the Museum and artist demonstrations at the School of Art, including a tour of our ceramics studio. Enjoy Five Exhibitions: “Contempo: Pushing the Limit on Art”, Charlie and Linda Riggs Ceramics, Richard Burkett Ceramics, “En Plein Air” and the Artists’ Guild Gallery.

 

www.lighthousearts.org Contact: Katie Deits, Executive Director or Barbra Broidy, Curator at 561.746.3101

 

THE VILLAGE ART STUDIOS


Gallery Square North    377 Tequesta Drive    Tequesta, FL. 33469

 

Open House Enjoy refreshments at The Village Art Studios, a charming collection of micro-studios and display space in a co-op setting. The diverse nature of the artwork is due to the quantity and quality of artists from Palm Beach County. Come meet them in their studios!

Contact: Julie Silk-Beaumont 561.310.8499

ORIGINAL ELEMENTS

Gallery Square North 387 Tequesta Drive Tequesta, FL. 33469

Open House Enjoy refreshments at this working Art Gallery/Art Studio features Original Artist and Artisans displaying and selling their unique pieces.

561.529.1822 
 Contact: Sandra O’Malley

 

7:30 – 9:00 pm

APBCGallery-Image-72

Artists of Palm Beach County Art on Park Gallery

800 Park Ave. Lake Park, FL. 33403

Open House at The gallery displays oils paintings, watercolors, acrylic paintings, photography, glass, collage and sculpture. Meet the Artists are working in small studios. In addition, find jewelry, ceramics, and fabric art. Something for everyone!

561.345.2842 www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.com
 Contact: John Palozzi, artistsofpbc@gmail.com

 

 

8:00 – 10:00 pm

AJBrewhouseimage001

The Brewhouse Gallery

720 Park Avenue Lake Park, FL. 33403

 

The Brewhouse Gallery is part eclectic hipster lounge, part modern New York art gallery. It’s a creative space to hang out, sip a brew, hold a meeting, share ideas, listens to music, and appreciate local art. Free Wi-Fi and comfortable furniture (that is also for sale) make you feel right at home. Our mission is to support local arts and build community! We serve French Press, Lattes, Cappuccinos, a killer Cuban espresso and other coffee creations made with locally roasted beans sourced directly from the growers. By night we offer craft beer from the finest Florida microbreweries, including Due South, Monk in the Trunk, and Cigar City, along with a selection of favorite wines.
 Musical performances, poetry readings, painting classes, and other assorted nighttime events keep things lively and we are quickly becoming one of the most well-respected live music venues in all of South Florida.

Contact: AJ Brockman: Cofounder – Gallery Curator 561.771.1641 | Facebook | BrewhouseGallery.com

 

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ARTSYNERGY 2015 please visit: artsynergypbc.com

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact The Rickie Report at:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

Spring Exhibit and Special Book Signings at Artists of Palm Beach County

The Artists of Palm Beach County invite you to a Book Signing at Art on Park Gallery, Friday, May 30th.  This is your chance to meet three authors/illustrators and enjoy the Spring Exhibit.  The Rickie Report knows people of all ages will enjoy this event, as you encounter Daphne the Duck, Katelyn and Gracie the Ghost, A Cookbook of Poetry, and A Book of Poetry and Haiku.  This is a terrific occasion to bring children!

 

 

APBC-LOGO

Artists of Palm Beach County 

Invite You

Meet the Authors and Illustrators

Friday, May 30th

6 -8 pm

Art on Park Gallery

800 Park Avenue       Lake Park,FL

 

 

APBCGallery-Image-72

On Friday May 30, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. the Artists of Palm Beach County (APBC) will host a book signing at the Art on Park Gallery, 800 Park Avenue in Lake Park. Make sure to get there early and feel free to bring kids as the authors will read excerpts from their books. In addition to the book sale and meeting the authors, everyone is invited to view and purchase the gallery’s art as well as to enjoy drinks and refreshments at this free event.
"The Story of Daphne The Duck" by Maxine Schreiber

“The Story of Daphne The Duck” by Maxine E. Schreiber

Maxine Schreiber, the current featured artist in the gallery’s Spring Exhibit, initiated the event to launch her children’s picture book The Story of DAPHNE the Duck.  If you think Muscovy ducks are ugly or a nuisance, this true story, which she wrote and illustrated, may change your mind.  It’s currently available on Amazon.
"Cook These Poems" by John Vincent Palozzi

“Cook These Poems” by John Vincent Palozzi

John Vincent Palozzi, APBC Vice President and the gallery manager has published a number of books.  “My favorite among them is Cook these Poems: 20 Vegetarian Recipes Disguised as Poetry,” Schreiber states.  “He’s a fabulous artist and a poet, and he also helped me publish my book.”   All nine of John’s books are available in Amazon paperback and Kindle editions.
Newton

Linda Taylor Newton’s “The Adventures of Katelyn, Gracie the Ghost and the Magic Horse

The two invited other APBC published authors to join them for the book signing event. Linda Taylor Newton will be there with The Adventures of Katelyn, Gracie the Ghost and the Magic Horse, her first book in the Amazing Discoveries series. It’s a story of two worlds woven together with the threads of family and friendship, one world of realism, the other of fantasy.
"Mumbo Jumbo" Illustrated by Marilyn 'Bobbin' Salisbury

“Mumbo Jumbo” Illustrated by Marilyn ‘Bobbin’ Salisbury

Marilyn “Bobbin” Salisbury will also be on hand with Mumbo Jumbo: Poetry and Haiku.  Deborah Desser-Herchan wrote this children’s book with Bobbin’s illustrations.  Both the writer and illustrator will be happy to sign books.

Regular gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.  For directions or other gallery information, call 561-345-2842 or go towww.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.com.

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact The Rickie Report at:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

 

Artists of Palm Beach County Announces Free Salon, Monthly Meeting and Opportunity to Exhibit at Art on Park

The Artists of Palm Beach County are offering three opportunities to artists and art lovers in the area.  On Saturday, March 8th, everyone is invited to a Free Salon/Discussion Forum.  On March 10th, Debbie Mostel will host the monthly sharing meeting.  These are both perfect opportunities to network, meet artists and gain a better understanding of the creative process.  In addition, there is a Call to Artists for an upcoming exhibit. The Rickie Report shares the details here.

 

 

 

APBCLOGOa709a4_d0843699a6a1cc019ea62ed6ffd5700a.png_srz_235_185_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_png_srz

 

 

Art on Park

800 Park Avenue

Lake Park, FL 33403

 

 561-345-2842

 

 

 

Free Salon

 

Saturday, March 8    2-4 pm

 

 Afternoon Salon/Discussion Forum

 

 

On Saturday, March 8,  2014 from  2 pm until 4 pm The Artists of Palm Beach County will present an interesting and informative afternoon program.  Three of our member artists in the current exhibit entitled “PARTNERS” will discuss their works. The artists who will make up the panel will be Maxine Schreiber, Norman Berman and Debby Mostel.   

 

 

Maxine Schreiber

Maxine Schreiber

 

 

These artists represent divergent styles and media. Maxine Schreiber’s style is representational,  fundamentally landscape images.  Norman Berman’s watercolors and gouache are detailed abstractions and Debbie Mostel’s works are surrealistic assemblages. Each are strikingly different, yet there are consistencies among them they have in common.

 

 

 

Norman Berman

Norman Berman

 

 

 They will each discuss their creative background and training and then they will interact with one another.  There will then be a question and answer period from members of the audience. 

Admission is free but seating will be limited.

 Please RSVP : 561-345-2842

 

 APBC-LOGO

 

 

 

 

Artist Debbie Mostel hosts

Artists of Palm Beach County Monthly Meeting

Monday, March 10th

7 – 9 pm

6520 East Point Pines    Palm Beach Gardens,FL

Mark your calendar! Each month the Artists of Palm Beach County (APBC), a coalition of professional artists meets for an evening of sharing and inspiration.  On Monday, March 10, 2014 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. world-renowned jewelry designer, sculptor, painter, and APBC member Debbie Mostel will be hosting the monthly event at her studio, 6520 East Point Pines Street, Palm Beach Gardens.
Debbie Lee Mostel

Debbie Lee Mostel

Debbie’s education in art spans the globe. Her high-end sterling and glass fashion jewelry were sold in famous venues such as Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom. They were also featured in publications such as the New York Times, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, and Harpers Bazaar.  Debbie currently incorporates castings of her jewelry elements into her paintings. Most of her work is half painted and half collaged with not just jewelry, but also many other found objects that contain special meaning to the artist.
Debbie Mostel

Debbie Mostel

After seeing Debbie’s work, well-known painter and gallery owner Jo Anne Berkow said “I immediately decided that I wanted to rep her in my gallery. To date her work has caused a lot of excitement. It is fresh, unique and makes a strong statement about the world we live in and the environment.”
Debbie Mostel

Debbie Mostel

Admission is free for members of APBC, but the general public is invited to attend the event for a $5.00 admission fee.  Payment will be collected at the door and will be applied towards the membership fee, if one wishes to join at the meeting.  Artists are encouraged to bring a work of art for sharing/critique as well as refreshments to share with the group.  If you can’t make it to the event, you can see Debbie’s artwork on her website www.debbieleemostel.com.
Debbie Mostel

Debbie Mostel

Directions:  I-95 to Donald Ross Rd west one mile to the entrance of East Point on the left.  State you are with Artists of PBC and show your drivers license at the guest gate.   At the first stop sign, turn left at East Point Pines St.  Debbie’s studio/home is about 1/2 mile on the right at the balloon.

 

bullseye

 

 

 

 

SPRING 2014 EXHIBIT

 

An exhibition of 2D and 3D works

 

 

At Art On Park Gallery

800 Park Avenue     Lake Park, FL

 

 

 

SUBMISSION DEADLINES:

 

Entries will be accepted through midnight (Eastern Time) on Tuesday, March 25th, 2014.

PLEASE NOTE:  IF you are not yet a member of APBC, you can join and enter!

All entrants are scheduled to be notified by email on or before Friday, March 28th, 2014.

SUBMISSIONS ARE OPEN TO ALL MEMBERS OF
ARTISTS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY
Please Read the information below, then:
Fee Payments / Entry Forms:
CLICK TO PAY THE $10 MEMBER ENTRY FEE USING PAYPAL
Members can always access exhibition entry forms from the MEMBERS ONLY PAGE of the APBC Web Site.

By submitting work to this exhibition, you agree to be bound by our terms.
To read those terms, CLICK HERE

 

Event Dates:
Tuesday April 1st, 2014 Through Friday June 27th, 2014
12 PM TO 6 PM

Opening Reception:

Thursday, Apr 10th, 5:00 pm 8:00 PM

Art on Park

800 Park Avenue
Lake Park, FL 33403

Phone: 561-345-2842
E-MAIL THE VENUE

 

 

  • CALL TO ARTISTS submission deadline: Tuesday, March 25, 2014
  • submission to be sent in electronically (JPEG format only no larger than 1MB)
  • Submit Entries at: www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.org
  • open to all members of APBC.
  • you may join or renew at: www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.org
  • non-refundable entry fee: $10 for up to 3 pieces
  • maximum Size: 40″ wide x 60″ high
  • Accepted Artists will be asked to sign up to help cover the Gallery
  • entry deadline: Tuesday, March 25 (12:00 midnight)
  • Notification to artists by March 28, 2014
  • Juried by the Gallery Management Committee
  • hand delivery of artworks on Saturday, March 29, and Monday, March 31, 2014 12:00 noon ─ 5:00 pm
  • Art Pickup: Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28, 2014 12:00 noon ─ 5:00 pm
  • Opening Reception: Thursday, April 10, 2014 5 ─ 8 pm

1. Artists must be current members of Artists of Palm Beach County.
NON-MEMBERS CLICK HERE for membership information and an application.
Dues must be paid for the year in which the exhibition takes place before your submission can be considered.
MEMBERS CLICK HERE IF YOU NEED TO RENEW YOUR DUES
2. No late entries accepted.
3. Original ideas only – no copying of works.
4. All required entry materials must be included in your submittal.
5. Entry fees are not refundable.
6. If this is a juried exhibition, the decision of the jurors is final.

Fee Payments / Entry Forms:
CLICK TO PAY THE $10 MEMBER ENTRY FEE USING PAYPAL

Members can always access exhibition entry forms from the
MEMBERS ONLY PAGE
of the APBC Web Site.

By submitting work to this exhibition, you agree to be bound by our terms.
To read those terms, CLICK HERE

Entry fees must be paid using the PayPal link above. Images must be submitted through the on-line entry form.
General questions – E-MAIL US HERE
The exhibition committee will respond.

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact The Rickie Report at:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

“pARTners” Opens at Artists of Palm Beach County

The idea behind the winter exhibit, ” pARTners” is that the members of Artists of Palm Beach County are all partners in their efforts to enrich their lives and the community through the creative process. Regardless of their diversity of media and styles, they are unified partners within the organization and with the larger community of Lake Park and beyond.  The message is that art brings us together, and we are all partnered with one another. The Rickie Report invites you to a sneak peek and the Opening Reception on January 28th when you can enjoy discounts on purchases.  More details are in this article.

 

 

APBCLOGOa709a4_d0843699a6a1cc019ea62ed6ffd5700a.png_srz_235_185_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_png_srz

 

 

Artists of Palm Beach County

Winter Exhibit: “pARTners”

Opening Reception:  

Tuesday, January 28th  6-8 pm

 

 

APBCa709a4_4b674680bb0f3c41d6fd7d1bd159a6ee.png_srz_498_268_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_png_srz

Exhibit Displays January 20 through March 28, 2014

Art on Park

800 Park Avenue   Lake Park, FL

 

 

 

Al Rojas

Al Rojas

 

The Artists of Palm Beach County (APBC), a coalition of professional artists all of whom are Palm Beach County residents, is happy to announce their winter exhibit pARTners will be on display January 20 – March 28, 2014 in the Art on Park Gallery, 800 Park Avenue, in Lake Park.  An Opening Reception will be held on Tuesday evening, January 28th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Everyone is invited to view and purchase the art as well as enjoy drinks and refreshments at this free event. Purchases at the opening are discounted 10 percent.
Marilyn Samwick

Marilyn Samwick

pARTners, a juried exhibit, presents the work of accomplished APBC artists in a variety of mediums including oils, pastels, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and watercolors as well as mixed media and sculpture. The idea behind the title of pARTners is that the members of APBC are all partners in their efforts to enrich their lives and the community through the creative process. Regardless of their diversity of media and styles, they are unified partners within the organization and with the larger community of Lake Park and beyond.  The message is that art brings us together, and we are all partnered with one another.
Irma Friedman

Irma Friedman

In addition to the current exhibit, the gallery is now the studio home for nine talented resident artists, BJ Collister, Naomi Cordero, Lynda Donigan, Joseph Friedman, Pat Levey, Frances Lynn, Henry Mistretta, Brian Rosen and Dick Yosinoff. Their powerful artwork covers the walls on either side of the gallery and will be on display at the opening reception.  All work is available for purchase.  Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted. 
Bob Bloomberg

Bob Bloomberg

Regular gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.  For directions or other gallery information, call  561-345-2842.  For more information visit www.artistsofpalmbeachcounty.com

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact The Rickie Report at:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291

Norman Berman Shares His Life and His heART

The Rickie Report staff first met Norman and and his late wife, Ethel, at a reception for the Artists of Palm Beach County.  We were fascinated by his artwork and had numerous questions about his technique, which he was happy to share.  Recently, we had the opportunity to interview Norman for this Feature Story.  What struck us was not only the depth of his knowledge but the humble manner in which he shared his life experiences.  We are honored to share his story with you and look forward to seeing you at the opening of his SOLO Exhibit at the Armory Art Center in November!

 

 

 

Norman Berman:

 

Awe and Reverence

 

November 2- 30, 2013

 

Reception:

Friday, November 1, 2013 | 6-8pm

Armory Art Center

 

 1700 Parker Avenue

West Palm Beach, FL 33401

561.832.1776

 Exhibit continues through month of November

All exhibitions are free and open to the public.

Monday – Friday 9 AM – 4:30 PM  and Saturday – 9 AM – 2 PM

 

NormanBerman1

 

 

 

 

Local artist, Norm Berman presents a survey of recent works. Berman’s subject matter ranges from Judaic themes to abstract works.   

This exhibit is dedicated to the memory of Norman’ s late wife, Ethel Berman who passed away on July 28, 2013.   She was Norman’s strength, staunchest supporter and “instant critic.”

 

 

 

Norman Berman has been creating art work professionally for over 50 years.  He tells us, “For me, creating artwork is a challenge.  As I look at a work surface, I begin my conversation with it.  The surface says to me ,’Create something, I dare you!’  Therefore, my adventure begins!”  

 

As one  listens to Norman Berman share some of his life-stories, you must pay attention to details.  Looking at his artwork, that should be no surprise.  It is these tidbits that makes the whole.

 

"The Interdicted Land"

“The Interdicted Land”

 

TRR:  What were your early artistic influences?

NB:

 

I came from a minimally educated family.  My mother drew a great teacup and saucer, because she learned how to draw an oval and a round shape in school. The only artwork on our walls at home was my Bar Mitzvah picture.  My first introduction to art was at age four, when I accompanied my father, a shipping clerk in a mens’ wear company, to work.  The women in the office gave me a piece of paper, a red pencil, a black pencil and plopped me in a chair with the instructions to ‘draw something’.  I drew the American flag to keep myself occupied.  Over the years, I started to copy and draw comic book characters (Disney, Terry and the Pirates, Dick Tracy). My father would take these drawings and hang them in his workplace and change them around – it was my first public gallery!

 

 

As the United States entered WWII, I was fascinated by US military aircraft, so I wrote to all of the aircraft companies for pictures.  They would send me these gorgeous lithographic prints!  My favorite was the P38, a double fuselage  plane and very impressive to look at.  Around the same time, there was a kid in our neighborhood who was already in high school and must have been an art major. I would show him my airplane drawings and he showed me how to create perspective images: not linear perspective images going to a vanishing point, but looking down at buildings as if you were in an airplane.

 

 

When I was 10 years old, I broke my elbow.  It was probably the beginning of my escapades with brittle bone disease, but we didn’t know about that until much much later. While at Beth El Hospital ( now Maimonides), I used to draw the nurses in profile, with their little hats.  In elementary school, my art was always hanging in the halls.

 

"Brothers Three"

“Brothers Three”

 As a Junior High School student, one of my teachers recommended that I attend the High School of Music & Art. We happened to live close to the neighborhood high school, Abraham Lincoln High School.  To go to Music and Art, would mean a long commute via subway, which my parents weren’t happy about.  As a result, I ended up in a local high school that by chance, had  a fabulous art department! That’s where I got my real strength in training, in my approach to art.  In 10th grade, Herbert W. Yates taught me graphic design, different mediums as well as the importance of art history.

 

I started saving articles from “Life Magazine” that related to art and artists.  My father would pick up a copy at the newsstand every Saturday. I finally convinced him that it would be more convenient and less expensive to get a subscription!   After reading the entire magazine, I categorized the pictures into my own filing system in red envelopes.  My mother, who was also a voracious reader, would buy other magazines like ‘McCalls’ and ‘Ladies Home Journal’.  Those magazines happen to have some of the top-notched illustrators of our time.

 

 

"Chai Designs: Tallis 17, Heavenly Reverence"

“Chai Designs: Tallis 17, Heavenly Reverence”

TRR:  Norman shares his “beshert” (Yiddish for “meant to be”) moment.  He takes us back to 1950.  

 

Leon Friend was the Chairman of the Art Department and I was sitting in his Graphic Arts class – last row, second seat.  Leon says,’ DO YOU KNOW WHO SAT IN YOUR SEAT? ‘  I said, ‘No.’  Friend said, ‘Alex Steinweiss’.  This was like mentioning God!    Alex Steinweiss was in one of the early graduating classes at Lincoln.  After graduating from Parsons School of Design, he worked for Columbia Records. Steinweiss convinced his employers to change their marketing strategy to sell their long playing records.  Instead of wrapping the records in brown paper, they should create a book with the record inside.  Each book would have artwork on its cover.  Alex Steinweiss was responsible for the entire industry of record albums cover designs!

 

During my senior year, I prepared a portfolio and sent it out to various groups, including the School Art League.  It is now May, 1952.  Mr. Friend comes into class and asks who we think should be the happiest person in the room today.  And then he says, ‘Norman, it’s you!  You just won the scholarship to Parsons School of Design! ‘ I’m thinking that I’m following in the steps of Alex Steinweiss!

 

In those days, we didn’t have cell phones.  You couldn’t even go down to the office to call your mother!    When I finally got home and shared my good news, my mother thought it was very nice.  Then we waited until my father came home to tell him.  I had already been accepted to tuition-free Brooklyn College.    What to do…  My father, a practical man, didn’t want Norman to accept the scholarship.  (What if it wasn’t renewed after a year – they couldn’t afford tuition; what about the cost of supplies; they also wanted to send his brother to college in just more three years).

 

"Beyond Nightfall"

“Beyond Nightfall”

Norman had to go back to school and tell Mr. Friend the news. This dedicated teacher stayed until 7 pm the next evening to meet with Norman’s father in an attempt to convince him, even offering an extra $100. from the “Art Squad” to help defray costs. The answer was the same.  A product of the Depression, Norman’s father understood the need to be pragmatic. Norman would go to college, become a teacher and get a job.

 

That summer I didn’t have a job. I walked from Brighton Beach, where we lived and roamed the streets of Manhattan Beach.  It was an upper class community with street names in alphabetical order.  I would look at all of the nice houses, telling myself that I was going to Brooklyn College.  I psyched myself up about meeting new people and having new experiences.

 

TRR:  Norman graduated from Brooklyn College and went back to his alma mater, Abraham Lincoln High School to student teach.

 

"Sabbath Bride"

“Sabbath Bride”

 

In May, 1956, I am being supervised by my teacher from Brooklyn College.  I’m teaching an art class that I’ve been working with since February.  Everything is going well – the timing is perfect, the results are terrific. The bell rings and everyone leaves, but this one 15 year old perky blond student walks up the aisle to speak with me.  I’m expecting this great question about the art lesson and she says to me,’ Mr. Berman, do you  use Old Spice aftershave lotion?’   Yes, I do! (Her name was Susan Slater).

 

Susan Slater ended up dating my brother.  She had an aunt who lived in East New York in a two-family building that was owned by Ethel’s sister. She thought it would be nice to fix up Norman with Ethel…  In September , 1960, she set up Norman on a blind date with Ethel.  The rest is history!  As Norman points out, if he had gone to Parsons, he would not have ended up student teaching and being introduced to his “beshert”, Ethel.  Our first date was on Ethel’s birthday. We were married for 52 years.

 

 

"Blue Totem"

“Blue Totem”

After graduation with my BA and Ma from Brooklyn College, I taught Junior High and moved on to High School.  I concentrated on teaching painting as part of the curriculum, along with art history and color theory. From my own experiences, I encouraged my students to learn and research their subjects.  Research is an essential part of any good piece of artwork!   My favorite part of the curriculum was teaching painting.  I was privileged to have a number of students from the “Art Talent Classes”.  These were students who took art classes five days a week and showed promise.  I continued teaching and eventually became a supervisor (Assistant Principal) .  I taught in a few different schools and  in 1983 was awarded the ‘Art Educator Award’ from the New York City Art Teacher’s Association/UFT in recognition of my outstanding service and commitment to art education.  I also held the rank of Adjunct Assistant Professor of Art at Queensborough College where I taught painting, drawing, two-dimensional design, advertising design and art history.  I finally retired in January, 1991.

 

"Our Father, Our King: Aveenu Malkainu"

“Our Father, Our King: Aveenu Malkainu”

 

TRR:  Tell us more about your own artwork.  On your website, you differentiate between two different types of art.  One is the “Prayer Shawl Series” and then “the rest”.

NB:

 

Somewhere, there is a interrelationship.  Some of my larger paintings incorporate Hebrew words from Jewish prayers.  The ‘Lecha Dodi’ piece that is on the Armory Art Center invitation, is from the prayer service which welcomes the Sabbath.  It refers to the oncoming Sabbath as a bride.  In my living room, is a powerful piece of bright yellow hues titled ‘Aveenu Malkeinu’ (Our Father, Our King”, which comes from the High Holy Day liturgy.   I created the ‘Prayer Shawl (‘Tallis’) Series’, one for each year’s Jewish New Year’s card for my family.

 

"Miinyan"

“Minyan”

During my studies at Brooklyn College, three or four faculty members really influenced me: Jimmy Ernst (son of Max), Carl Robert Holty ( a disciple of Mondrian), and Harry Holtzman.  Stylistically, Jimmy showed me how calligraphy and linear work can influence a piece of artwork; how to allow just enough, without overpowering the piece.  Holty taught me to take Mondrian’s rectangles and squares and change their edges from white to various tints and shades of color, allowing work to “float” in one plane over the other.  He helped me capture my creative imagination through color relationships.  Holty subscribed to Hans Hoffman’s theory of “Push and Pull”.  Holtzman, who never taught studio, explained the theory of modern art, abstract theory and how to analyze what the creative process was all about.  He was one of the people who managed to help Mondrian get into this country.  The faculty of Brooklyn College in the 50’s and 60’s were influential artists, bringing new ideas and changes to the art world. They were the top names in the Abstract Expressionist Movement.   Having Mark Rothko as a teacher, certainly influenced me.  I subscribe to the Abstract Art Movement’s credo “The act of painting is more important than the product.  As Mark Rothko says, “My paintings are made to engulf you.”

 

"Lake of The Snow Moon"

“Lake of The Snow Moon”

At the same time as I was teaching, I was also creating and showing my own work.  I believe strongly that to be able to teach art, you must be involved in the creative process yourself!  You have to live through the agony of that blank canvas and the ecstasy of a finished piece of art.   

 

TRR:  Does your art tell a story?

NB:

 

Good question!    Usually, my art does not tell a story.   It suggests to the observer a set of images. My piece, ‘Lake of Snow Moon’ is unusual in that aspect, for me.  I normally don’t create narrative pieces of work like that.  When we lived in Queens, it was very different for people like my neighbor, Murray Tinkleman, who had to produce a spot drawing for ‘Field & Stream’ of a sailfish.  As an illustrator, he had to complete a considerable amount of research.  What does a kid from Brooklyn know about a sailfish?  Murray became Chairman of the Illustration Department at Parsons School of Design and then went on to Syracuse University.  The toughest part of being an abstract painter is when people ask me , ‘well, what is that supposed to be?’  If my response is that I cannot tell them and they have to determine for themselves, it sounds dismissive.  I don’t want to be that way.  If the spectator is not willing to engage and think and wonder ‘what does that look like?’, I cannot establish that for them.

 

I like the subtlety of color relationships and that shows in a majority of my work.  Even after graduation from Brooklyn College, I would go to Carl Holty’s  studio and show him my work and talk about these theories.  Then I started to show my work in galleries in Greenwich Village, eventually moving to galleries uptown.

 

 

"Tekiyah"

“Tekiyah”

TRR:  What is your favorite part of being an artist?

NB:

 

When the piece is ready to sign!   I have exhibited widely in the New York metropolitan area and my work appears in numerous private collections across the country.  The Queensborough Community College Gallery has my work in its permanent collection.  My work has been displayed in libraries around Nassau and Suffolk Counties in New York as well as the Polish Consulate in Manhattan, the GE Gallery in Schenectady, NY and the SONY Gallery in New York City.

 

"Slowly Comes The Night"

“Slowly Comes The Night”

 

TRR:  What  tips would you give beginning artists?

NB:

 

Don’t be afraid to do what you want to do!  Your images will grow and your style will change.  That is OK.  For me, selling my work is a secondary thought.  I love what I do.  But, at the same time, don’t be afraid to market yourself.  I know this is difficult because one is fearful thinking about it.  Most artists aren’t trained to sell their work.

 

 

"Eclipse 2009"

“Eclipse 2009”

TRR:  Can you take us through the process of a painting?

NB:

 

When we relocated to Florida, I moved away from working with oils.  Fundamentally, I now use watercolor.  I start out with a blank sheet of paper.  I add floating colors next.  After that, I bring in wide calligraphic lines, getting thinner and thinner to create an intricate ‘lace-like’ network. The final effort is to come up with a title.  When I reread two of my favorite books, “My Name is Asher Lev” and “The Gift of Asher Lev”  by Chaim Potok, while I was not as prolific as Asher Lev, I had many of the same experiences as he did, growing up in Brooklyn.

 

I rarely work from sketches or small studies.  I put up a piece of illustration board, watercolor paper or canvas ( when I worked in oils). I don’t buy this notion that art is for self-enjoyment. Art is a challenge to let your mind and brain create images through your hand that I find pleasing, interesting and challenging.  The one thing  about the 1950’s and 1960’s about theories in art  in colleges was that the act of painting was more important than the product.  If you finish the product and you like it, sign and you’re done.  Fine.   If you finish a product that you don’t like, it is also fine to rip it up and throw it away.   In fact, in Mark Rothko’s class, he would have you create a piece of art, then tear it up and reconstruct it!

 

 

 

"Scylla and Charybdis"

“Scylla and Charybdis”

 

I have never created collage with my artwork.  When I am finished with a painting, I sign it and that’s it!  That’s not a “beshert” moment.  It is an “Aha” moment.   When you look at your piece and know that it is enough, you are done.    If you’re not sure, stop painting and turn the piece facing the wall.  Turn it around and look at it in another 6 weeks.  Look at it with fresh eyes.  My best best and most instant critic was Ethel…

 

TRR:  Norman is a visionary.  With all the hullaballoo about recycling and using “found objects” to make art in our current times, Norman and colleague Andrew Pinto co-wrote  “Art from Clutter” in 1976.  Why then?

NB:

 

We did all of the work ourselves.  We wrote it, made the objects and even took the photographs!   Robert Rauschenberg was beginning to explore these things, in the  early Pop Art Movement.  He used non-traditional materials and objects in innovative combinations. I  see it as an extension of the Abstract Expressionism Movement, expanding into another direction.  The book was to be the first in a series of using “found objects” to make collage, frottage ( rubbings) and assemblage.  We went to great lengths to get permission to use historic images and information as part of the book’s literature.  (Museum of Primitive Art, Museum of Contemporary Art, MOMA).  It was exciting when we took our kids to Washington, DC to the Library of Congress and found it in the card catalogue!  The owner of the publishing company unfortunately passed away and the company dissolved, so no further books were written in the series.

 

"Neilah"

“Neilah”

 

 

TRR:  How do you recharge your creativity?

BN:

 

I love photography.  If I am not doing that, I try to spend time at my easel every day.  I tend to like working on only one piece at a time.  I like the continuity from day to day, as my layers build up.

 

"Job"

“Job”

TRR:  Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

NB:

 

I do have a physical limitation, which prevents me from working on large canvases, which I used to do in oils and in acrylics. I was diagnosed with ‘brittle bone disease’ (osteogenesis imperfecta). Because of my disability, I limit myself to working on full sheet or a double elephant size Arches’ Bright White 300 lb. Cold Press paper or 140 lb. Arches Bright White paper.  In reading a research paper about OI, it stated that those with the disease tend to be very optimistic people, with strong motivations.  We get up.  We do.  We are positive.  I hope more people find out about the OI Foundation.wwwOIF.org   My granddaughter, Mira, uses art as an outlet because she cannot run around like other kids, due to this brittle bone issue.

 

Norman at his Easel

Norman at his easel

 

In 2012, Norman served as Coordinator for the Artists of Palm Beach County’s exhibit at the Armory Art Center.  He had no idea how complex this administrative job would become.  He comments, “Being an educator gives you a multiplicity of skills”.  Two Armory Art Center Faculty members judged the show. I met Talya Lerman and established a relationship with the Armory Art Center.

 

Norman has dedicated this exhibit to his late wife and life-partner, Ethel.  He will show 20-25 pieces at the Armory Art Center.  “Awe and Reverence”  will show some of his abstract paintings as well a images of the journey through his Jewish heritage.  The “Awe” bridges the gap between some of the abstractions and the reverential images of Berman’s heritage.

 

 

 

For more information about this exhibit, please visit   www.armoryart.org  or contact Norman Berman : www.normanberman.com

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact The Rickie Report at:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

P.O.Box 33423

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33420

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291