(NEW MILFORD, NJ) -- Artist Philip Smallwood recently hosted an exciting 2-day biennial Open Studio which featured his latest works of art. Smallwood is an artist who has been represented by major galleries and his paintings have garnered over 100 awards. His work is amongst some of the finest collections of contemporary art in museums and private collections and regularly featured in national art publications.
Smallwood is one of the top contemporary artists working in traditional realism. He is well known for his figurative work often referred to as, ‘Lifescapes,’ a visual form of storytelling. ‘Lifescapes,’ consists of compelling watercolor portraits that reveal aspects of the subject’s life through gesture and surroundings.
This year’s well attended event was hosted at Smallwood's studio, located in New Milford, NJ. Not only was this year’s showing attended by many local Bergen County residents but also by many guests located in the tri-state area. With picture perfect weather and a continuous stream of visitors the artist shared his 3 level studio, artwork and stories associated with each piece of art with his guests.
One of the highlights of the weekend for those in attendance was to actually meet Smallwood’s mother who was captured so beautifully in watercolor on the invitation for the event. For many, it was surreal to hold the invitation in hand and yet greet the subject with the other hand.
The décor of the studio, conversations about the subjects, the overall ambience and gracious high school & college student hostesses just added another dimension to the perfect art showing. This year’s Open Studio definitely created a space where patrons could deeply experience each subject organically and authentically. Once again the artist’s attempt to create artwork which reflects a level of experiential relationship with the human spirit was definitely fulfilled. All agree that this Open Studio was a phenomenal event and the best one yet.
As a representational artist, Smallwood’s artwork provided the viewer with an atmosphere where they could experience the common thread of emotions, aspirations and desires of the people he paints. Art enthusiasts or anyone who is interested in learning more about the work of Philip Smallwood are encouraged to check out the artist’s website at: www.psmallwood.com
Photo credit: ADS Photography
