On Wednesday, April 22, Rochester artist Brian O’Neill will
present a sequel to last year’s successful “MUSE” exhibition of paintings he created
in collaboration with Rochester City Ballet. The exhibition will be on display at Nan Miller Gallery (3000 Monroe Avenue) through May 14.
O’Neill’s relationship with the dance group was born out of two
discussions: between O’Neill and RCB’s Artistic Director, Jamey Leverett, regarding how they might collaborate and showcase
their artistic expressions; and later, when O’Neill and his partner, Jim, who is
also a dancer, discussed how fine art and dance influence one another.
O’Neill spent time at RCB rehearsals, then conducted indoor and
outdoor photo shoots to reference when creating the work.
A reception for “MUSE 2.0” will be held
7:30 to 9 p.m. at Nan Miller Gallery (3000 Monroe Avenue). This new collection
includes more than 30 paintings, some of which portray RCB dancers immersed in familiar
Rochester landmarks, including as the George Eastman House and Highland Park. Balancing
O’Neill’s depictions of frozen grace are his richly saturated abstract
paintings that capture the energy, emotion, and drama of dance.
The event is free and open to the public (RSVP by calling
292-1430), and the exhibition will continue through May 14. Gallery hours are
Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit
nanmillergallery.com.
For more art events, visit City’s calendar.
This article appears in Apr 22-28, 2015.
