A Splash Of Color: Paintings by Willie Marlowe

A Splash Of Color at Carmen’s Café

Albany artist Willie Marlowe is displaying her work at Carmen’s Café, 198 First Street, Troy, through November 25. The show, entitled “A Splash Of Color,” is curated by Jim Lewis.

Ms. Marlowe is a Professor Emerita, Sage College of Albany. She is known for abstract canvases and collages with strong colors in interesting combinations.

“I always think of myself as an abstract painter, but travel has been a big influence, as well as archaeology, ancient and primitive art,” said Ms. Marlowe. “I love the idea that with each painting, I get to go somewhere I have never been before– each painting is a new adventure. I always want make the next painting, to live in it as it takes shape and to see it when it is finished.”

While it may seem at first glance that her works are dashed off quickly, Ms. Marlowe says they are built up slowly over time. Speaking from her Albany studio, she said, “I usually begin with a sgraffito (scratched) line, and work by subtracting paint, then by scraping through and sometimes building up layers of translucent glazes. I work on an intimate scale because it feels more direct from hand to paper.”

She notes that many pieces fail along the way, but that nothing is wasted. “Sometimes there are parts that might work. I cut them out and keep them in a box in my studio— a box of future collage elements that might find their way into other paintings.” Some collages are in this show, along with her paintings and digital art. More information can be found at www.WillieMarlowe.com

Ms. Marlowe is currently in invitational exhibitions in Venice, Finland, and at the Opalka Gallery in Albany. She has a solo show in Sacramento, California opening in mid September and has been in a group show at Ceres Gallery in NYC over the summer

An Artist’s Reception will be held on Thursday, September 19th from 5-8 pm at Carmen’s Café. Tapas samples and sangria will be served.

A Splash Of Color can be seen at Carmen’s Café, 198 First Street, until November 25. For information call (518) 326-2064. Hours are Friday 5-10 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9-4.