VISUAL ARTS

“Distressed” typically refers to being damaged or previously used, intentionally defacing or fading an object to convey an antique or used look, or to experience distress. At the Loading Dock Gallery, Distressed is an exhibit of artwork by Karen Bettencourt and David Hogan. Bettencourt and Hogan “distress” their artwork literally, but the artwork has also been a positive outlet for telling stories of distress. They each work with a mix of media and techniques. Bettencourt focuses on digital and material collage, assemblage, and fiber while Hogan works with drawing, painting, assemblage, and printmaking.

Bettencourt uses mixed media to create artwork that responds to all forms of distress. She says “I have always been truly fond of that which is old, weathered, rusted or distressed. I search endlessly for old handwritten letters, paper, tickets, photographs, hotel bills, rusted metal, and aged or distressed wood and cloth.” Bettencourt uses these found objects to create colorful, textured collage and assemblage.

For Hogan, the artwork is about how nature and manmade objects like buildings are affected by natural and human forces. He says “Everything we perceive is “distressed” to one degree or another.” The objects may not fit our preconceptions of beauty because they are "distressed," but they can have their own integrity and beauty.

Bettencourt and Hogan endeavor to translate the life experiences of people and objects into pieces of art. They use objects that they find, what they see around them, and experiences they have to tell stories with their artwork so that their meaningfulness is never lost. Their art will help you to see the beauty in an object or an experience that you might not have otherwise noticed.

Distressed exhibits at the Loading Dock Gallery, 122 Western Avenue, 2nd floor of the A Mill from September 28th to October 30th. Join the artists for a reception on Friday evening October 7th from 6 to 9pm. The Loading Dock Gallery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 4:30pm. For more information, go to www.theloadingdockgallery.com or call Maxine Farkas at 978-349-8069.