Cohesive abstraction might seem like an oxymoron or competing terms, but they are coming together in a carefully curated art show starting this weekend at William Ris Gallery in Jamesport.
Abstract Women, is opening with a reception Saturday, Aug. 22 from 3 to 6 p.m. The show features 10 abstract artists with expressive vision and originality: Anahi DeCanio, Madhu Powar Garg, Deborah Katz, Neelam Padte, Roohi Saleem, Susan Saunders, Stacey Schuman, Andrea Q. Thompson, Rasa Valiene and Carol Weinberg.
According to gallery owner Mary Cantone, this show marks the fourth group of abstract women artists on display in the 11 years the gallery has been open at 1291 Main Road in Jamesport.
“Every woman abstract artist is an independent free thinker, who follows her own instincts,” Ms. Cantone said. About these 10 in particular, she added: “They’re all very accomplished. And [almost] all from Long Island.”

On their art, she said together their collective works create a compelling dialogue through color, movement, texture, and form, demonstrating the limitless possibilities of contemporary abstract art.
“I always say, we’re in this together,” said Ms. Cantone of working with artists, regardless of genre. “They work hard and we work in unison.”
Mattituck multimedia artist Andrea Q. Thompson agrees that working with Ms. Cantone and William Ris Gallery is a collaboration.
“It’s welcoming, friendly; she’s been doing this many years; she’s very supportive,” Ms. Thompson said. “She curates a variety of pieces, sizes and styles, and yet the show is still cohesive.”

Ms. Thompson is showing four abstract pieces from a new series starting Saturday. She described them as deconstructed classic floral arrangements revealing a fractured, textured world. She said she uses photography, digital collage and pastels or watercolor pencils in her work creating a delicate balance of existence, beauty and vulnerability.
To her, each unique voice and perspective of the 10 artists in the Abstract Women show is captivating.
“Abstract art leaves it up to the viewer,” Ms. Thompson said. “You may be reminded of a scene you’re used to seeing…beautiful representations of our landscape and the beauty of the North Fork as seen through the eyes of different artists.”
The show will culminate on Sunday, Sept. 20.
The William Ris Gallery institution itself is celebrating 60 years this year. Ms. Cantone’s brother Bill ran its original location in New Jersey 1966. After 45 years it moved from New Jersey to Pennsylvania, where it remained for another 35. In 2015, Ms. Cantone continued its legacy by bringing the gallery to the East End of Long Island.
“The decision to move here was the best decision I ever made,” she said, explaining that both of her children are creative. Her daughter, Brooke Cantone, is half of the design duo at Lumber + Salt in Jamesport.

Over those six decades as a family-driven business where she has been focused on art and fueled by legacy, Ms. Cantone said she is proud to have developed great relationships with artists.
In her view, a gallery mirrors its owner, which is evident in the close relationships she has formed with artists who work with William Ris Gallery over the years.
The post Ten women, 10 visions: Abstract art takes over William Ris Gallery appeared first on The Suffolk Times.
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