Perspectives Art Gallery, a fine art gallery in Petersburg, Illinois, is thrilled to announce its upcoming Local Perspectives Show, a vibrant celebration of the diverse artistic expressions within the community. The opening reception will take place on January 27th from 12:00 to 5:00pm, offering a unique chance for visitors to meet with and appreciate the talents of 26 local artists. The limited-time exhibition will run through February 16th. 

“It has been a dream of mine to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent that exists in our community, and I’m so excited to be able to do that with the Local Perspectives Show,” said Toni Lowenthal, Owner and Curator at Perspectives. “Working with these local artists and learning more about their creative processes and individual perspectives in their art has been the most inspiring experience, and I can’t wait for the community to experience it as well.”

For many of the artists, the Local Perspectives Show marks the first time that their work will be featured in a gallery setting – an exciting milestone for the artists and a testament to the talent that can be found in our friends, neighbors, and community members. 

“When Perspectives Art Gallery opened and was looking for local art, I couldn’t resist,” said mixed media artist Natalie Keller. “Having just moved to Petersburg, I was thrilled to see the opportunity to showcase my art in such an inspiring community. I’m excited to get to know other local artists and celebrate our creativity together!”

“I am beyond grateful for this incredible opportunity to showcase my stained glass creations at Perspectives Art Gallery’s ‘Local Perspectives Show,’” said stained glass artist Sarah Thomas. “I look forward to meeting with the other artists and I am eager to celebrate the creativity that will be on display.”

From ceramics to spray paint, photography to stained glass, acrylic to sketch pens, and even old drum heads from the Blue Man Group – the artists work with a wide array of materials and techniques to create unique and thought-provoking pieces. And while these artists are creating their work for the enjoyment of the craft, the opportunity for others to enjoy and purchase the art is an exciting venture.

“Since I retired in 2020, I have wanted to show my paintings in a gallery like Perspectives,” said painter Stephanie Myers. “I would continue painting even if I never sold anything. But, selling a painting brings a sense of accomplishment and validation that someone values my efforts to portray beauty in the world around me.”

Artists are an integral part of our everyday life – whether it’s the architecture of our home, the art we put in it, or the various artforms we enjoy as we watch television, listen to music, or read a book. Making a living through one’s creative passions is not just about fulfilling daily needs, but fulfilling the soul. 

“When someone comments that they like my art, or purchases a piece, it means the world to me,” said mixed media artist Tony Rubba. “I will never get tired of connecting with the crowds, and hearing their validations that what I am doing at age 71 is what I am supposed to do.” 

The opening reception for the Local Perspectives Show will take place on Saturday, January 27th from 12:00pm to 5:00pm. There will be an artists’ discussion at 1:00pm.  Light refreshments will be served.

For more information and updates on Perspectives Art Gallery, please visit perspectivesartgallery.com or contact the gallery at (217) 361-7929 or info@perspectivesartgallery.com.