Ellen Wagener and Greg Gossel Exhibits at the Voices Studio -- October 4 through November 30. (Ellen Wagener artwork pictured)
Opening Reception: Friday, October 4, 6 p.m.
Exhibits: Friday, October 4, through Saturday, November 30
Volices Studio, 1585 Central Avenue, Dubuque IA
From October 4 through November, Dubuque's Voices Studio will host a new and compelling dual exhibition featuring the works of renowned artists Ellen Wagener and Greg Gossel, whose works displayed in separate galleries will deliver a full visual experience that juxtaposes the serene, ethereal landscapes of Wagener with the bold, provocative explorations of pop culture by Gossel.
Ellen Wagener is celebrated for her ability to capture the ever-changing beauty of nature. Her works transport viewers to specific locations that she has revisited over time, meticulously observing the subtle shifts in light, weather, and season. With a masterful use of warm, earthy tones against the cool, elusive skies, Wagener’s landscapes are not just visual experiences but tactile ones as well. The gestural elements in her work, from the rich textures of fields and trees to the soft, ethereal clouds, evoke a deep connection with the cultivated land and the infinite diversity of the sky. Through her art, Wagener offers a mysterious and contemplative encounter with nature that resonates with both the familiar and the sublime.
By contrast, Greg Gossel’s work dives into the heart of contemporary culture, critiquing society’s fixation on materialism and status symbols. Gossel’s pieces are characterized by richly textured surfaces, created through a dynamic blend of silkscreen, collage, and hand painting. His spontaneous creative process results in works that balance mechanical precision with expressive mark-making, reflecting the tension between design and artistic expression. Gossel’s background in design is evident in the typographic and geometric elements that permeate his works, creating layers that invite viewers to delve into the complexities of modern pop culture. By examining iconic figures and symbols, Gossel challenges us to reconsider the values and obsessions that define our society.
Offering an immersive experience that invites visitors to explore the visuals of nature and contemporary society through the lens of two distinct artistic visions, this collective exhibition brings with it a rare opportunity to experience the dialogue between two distinct artistic perspectives. While Wagener’s works invite contemplation of the natural world, Gossel’s pieces provoke a critical examination of the cultural landscape. Wen seen under one roof, their art forms a powerful narrative about the world we inhabit, both natural and constructed.
Voices Studio is pleased to have the artists present for the Opening Reception on Friday, October 4, with Artist Talks beginning at 6 p.m. and music by DZ Combo starting at 8 p.m.. All are invited and welcome to attend this exhibition, and to participate in the expanding art scene in the Central Corridor. There is no charge and refreshments will be served. Voices Studios is committed to showcasing diverse and innovative contemporary art, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists.
The Ellen Wagener and Greg Gossel exhibits will be on display October 4 through November 30, admission is free, and more information is available by calling (563)590-2533 and visiting VoicesStudios.org.
