
By Ann McCreary

Shadow and light, opposites that define each other, provide the concept behind Confluence Gallery’s upcoming art exhibit that opens Jan. 16.
“Shadow and Light” explores artists’ interpretations of how shadow and light contrast and compliment each other, giving definition, clarity or mystery to the world around us.
“Shadow and light cover many different areas, from the literalness of shadow and light especially on our eastern side of the mountains … to a more mystical interpretation,” said Mary Lou McCollom, curator of the exhibit.

From a more abstract conceptualization, shadow and light can apply to the human psyche, dreams, hopes and fears, she said.
“The exhibit gives many different peoples’ impressions of light and shadow, and how they see it as an artist,” McCollom said.
Artists capture the essence of shadow and light in photographs of rippling water and an owl at dusk; a painting of morning light on a rushing creek; and the subtle play of shadow and light in glass objects.

Two dozen local artists will display their work in the exhibit, which opens with a reception from 4 – 8 p.m. Jan. 16, and continues through Feb. 27.
This week at Confluence, the gallery will host one exhibit’s opening and another one’s closing on Friday (Jan. 8), both from 4 – 8 p.m.
Closing is “It’s the Little Things.” Opening is an exhibit by Confluence artist in residence Perri Howard, whose works will be on display in the Loovre gallery.
For more information, call 997-2787.