The striking paintings of local artist Marlena Hewitt, a current art instructor at the Brookline Adult & Community Education Program, are on display at the main Brookline Public Library until January 4th.
Hewitt is originally from Poland but migrated to the Boston area in 1991 to study art and architecture with a desire to paint in styles that represent the impressionistic as well as the abstract. This collection is from a larger body of work inspired by the Boston Ballet and Watertown’s Koltun Ballet Academy. Before the holiday season comes to an end, it is important not to miss these seventeen pieces, which depict not only the delicacy and beauty of perfected technique, but also the textured physicality of the demanding classical dance.
Exactly opposite the entrance to the hall five large canvases, presenting the familiar ballet likeness, capture immediate viewer attention. One particular painting features the image of a centered ballerina painted with elongated limbs, exquisite leg extension, and delicate form. The other four larger pieces hanging on the far wall are similarly pleasing to the eye, some with warm hues of white, cream and powdery pinks.
Making the exhibit even more worthwhile, however, are the abstract pieces of the collection, which feature interesting textures and hues. Depicted in a few paintings are figures reflecting Cubist influence standing like blocks with heads in saturated purples and blues. There is even a work that seems to drip or sweat on the canvas while Hewitt’s dancer, although the feet are not as clear, appears to be pushing herself through a piqué turn. To further contrast the delicacy of Hewitt’s more impressionistic depictions, one smaller piece located closer to the stage of the hall shows figures laced with torn newspaper clippings creating jagged backdrops for the mixed medium setting.
There is certainly much to be enjoyed in Hewitt’s work, whether one is charmed by the gentle smiles, perfectly pinned chignons and lavender-pink tutus or moved by the slightly grittier nature of the dance world.
Additionally, viewers should take a look at the prints of local artist Eli Portman. Portman is a Boston area native who was educated at Binghamton University in New York. On display in the cases of the library’s entrance is his collection of ink drawings with a color wash. The blurry inspirational photographs he took accompany some of his vibrant prints presenting urban street corners and nightlife. One can find more of his work at www.eliportman.weebly.com.
— Story and photographs by Adriana Hammond
