MJ Erard Gallery Displays “Vivid Motion” - Work by Two West-Coast Artists

The MJ Erard Gallery located in the South Wing of the Historic Oliver House is pleased to display the colorful artwork of two West Coast artists from July 1 – August 22^nd. (I know, the poster says through July, 31st - but it's been extended) An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, July 11^th from 7 – 9 p.m. in the gallery.

Vibrant hues and lively movement characterize the oil paintings of self-taught artist, Joachim McMillan. McMillan, born in Granada now residing in Portland Oregon, will display his unique and colorful expressionistic paintings that depict his Caribbean heritage either in mood, hue or subject matter. McMillan reports, “Each painting tells a story and is part of a series, it will draw you in and make you want to touch the highly textured surface. The motion in my paintings will leave you emotionally charged.”

In his early 20's Joachim McMillan moved from Grenada to New York City to study technology. At the same time he continued to explore different artistic techniques. He now resides in Oregon, where he works for a leading semi conductor company. McMillan states that his technical and artistic diversity plays a role in his unique skill and style. His artistic uniqueness is undoubtedly the reason why galleries in the US, Caribbean, and the UK frequently exhibit his work. Additional work by Joachim McMillan can be viewed on his website www.mcmillangallery.com.

Accompanying Joachim McMillan’s oil paintings will be expressive art glass by David Patterson of Tacoma Washington. Patterson received a BA in Fine Arts from Washington State University. He has resided for the last 31 years in Tacoma, Washington, where he has been working in the aerospace industry as a methods analyst. Patterson states, “I have slowly been transitioning back to what my heart desires – my art and photography.” When Patterson is not in his studio painting in pastel, he is creating glass sculptures at the Tacoma Glassblowing Studio. His glasswork consists of multi-colored round and egg-shaped sculptures. Patterson’s sculptures have the unique ability to draw you into the glass to follow the energetic lines of vibrant color, while at the same time sooth and calm your emotions. “I’m thrilled to be able to exhibit my glass sculptures in the MJ Erard Gallery – especially with Toledo being the birthplace of the American Studio Glass Movement”, Patterson notes. David Patterson’s paintings, photography and glass can be viewed on his website at www.photosandfineart.com .

Entertainment will be provided by Ed Levy Jazz Duo – more info: www.edlevyguitar.com

The Oliver House is located at 27 Broadway Street in Downtown Toledo's Warehouse District.

For more information contact Mary Jane Erard, Director - 419-389-0385

If you would like to know which pieces will be at the gallery - go to the "Glass Art" section of my website - they are the 2nd through 8th pieces listed.