Visit the John Natsoulas Gallery February 5 to March 1 for the exciting opportunity to see “New Paintings by Marcy Friedman.” The works in this collection are representative of Friedman’s excellent techniques and abilities to capture diverse subject matter.
Marcy Friedman has been a significant force in the Sacramento region for decades, both as a major philanthropist and as an artist in her own right. Her painting techniques reflect her years of training with artists from across Northern California, but she shares unique and compelling narratives through her figurative works. In this exhibition, she highlights the experiences that people have when in museums and when contemplating murals. Her love for history and an appreciation for the rich traditions of art are fully on view.
In considering her exhibition and her career, Friedman shares:
“My artistic journey began at Stanford University in the 1950s, where I pursued a degree in history with a minor in art, focusing on life drawing. After graduating in 1956 and marrying a Stanford-educated lawyer, I relocated to Sacramento. There, during the late 1960s and early 1970s, I had the privilege of studying under esteemed artists Benny Barrios and Ken Morrow.
Following a four-decade hiatus dedicated to raising my three sons and engaging in community initiatives—including a significant role in the $120 million campaign to establish the new Crocker Art Museum—I returned to painting as a means of personal renewal after my husband’s passing in 2012. Art became a bridge to refashioning my life as a single person, fostering new associations with local artists, and deepening my commitment to drawing from live models in weekly sessions with accomplished artists. I also had the honor of studying independently and periodically with Wayne Thiebaud for six years.
The onset of the pandemic brought an end to live model sessions, prompting me to explore landscapes and still life compositions. As I approach my 90th year, I find joy in the bold application of color and the dynamic portrayal of my subjects, often leaving backgrounds in portraits understated to maintain focus on the essence of the individual. Landscapes present a unique challenge, inviting me to capture the interplay of light, color, and form in the natural world. My work is a testament to resilience and the enduring pursuit of artistic expression, reflecting a lifelong passion that continues to evolve with each passing year.”
This exhibition offers viewers the opportunity to explore Friedman's diverse themes and appreciate her excellent technique. The exhibitions’ opening reception is to be held on Saturday, February 8 from 4:00-7:00 PM. It will feature live music and free refreshments. Immediately prior, the John Natsoulas Gallery is honored to host the artist for “A Conversation with Marcy Friedman,” at 3:00 PM. Please come to this free event and the reception to follow.
https://natsoulas.com/upcoming-exhibitions/marcy-friedman-exhibition
