Art by James Feehan
(CALIFON, NJ) -- The Gallery at Bex, a casual yet elegant art gallery in the heart of historic Hunterdon County, is pleased to host the art of renowned artist James Feehan at an art opening on Thursday, July 11th. The exhibition runs through September 1, 2024.
Feehan had a painting displayed as part of the group show that wrapped up recently at The Gallery. Journey Folk, a display dedicated to Feehan, is again curated by Chris Callahan, who has a wealth of experience in the New York City art world.
What is Journey Folk?
“Journey Folk means people going from one village image to the next, with people you meet along the way,” explains show curator Chris Callahan. “Medieval-era paintings were often commissioned by wealthy families and they specified that objects showing status and wealth be displayed in the portrait. James’ work reminds me a little of that,” Callahan notes.
Journey Folk opens on Thursday, July 11th at 6:00pm. The Gallery at Bex is located at 56 Main Street, Califon, New Jersey. Califon is between Chester and High Bridge, NJ, and is a historic town with a quaint downtown area, the popular Columbia Trail, and the Raritan River flowing through. The event is free and provided by Bex.
Chef Becky Geisel always makes great hors d'oeuvres and a special beverage for art openings. Attire is casual, the event is rain or shine, and the gallery is air-conditioned if there’s a heatwave. Ample parking in the back or on the street.
What to Expect
Feehan’s work is a blend of the real and surreal, often incorporating medieval motifs and agrarian objects inspired by the artist’s residence in scenic Bucks County, Pennsylvania. His paintings invite the viewer to decode and form a narrative of what’s going on, but like much art, it is open to subjective processing. “It’s pretty cool that such a small town like Califon has an art gallery,” Chef Becky ruminates. “Even though we’re a bit off the map, there are hidden gems in this area. Come check out the art, dine at the Bex Cafe, take in the lovely Columbia Trail and Raritan River, and see a side of New Jersey that goes against stereotype.”
…And a Special Dinner Connected to the Art
Mark your calendars for Friday, July 19th. Artist Feehan and Chef Becky are collaborating on a special gathering, “The Palette and the Plate”. Take a journey from the canvas to the plate with an expression of Americana influences from two artists’ perspectives, one being the brush and the other being the spoon.
This special 4-course dinner (including a special cocktail and amuse bouche) features a talk by the expressive artist himself. This will be an intimate, memorable, dual-value event in which you’ll be fed wonderfully AND nourish your mind by learning about Feehan’s life, art, and process.
The cost is $150, but you are going to get a unique experience with all the trimmings. This event will be something to brag about and remember fondly.
“Hunterdon County is interesting in the way that it’s rural and working-class but also has a very sophisticated side interested in the arts and fine dining,” Chef Becky notes. “We like to explore ‘elevated’ things like art and haute cuisine while not being snobby or pretentious about it. It’s a nice balance, and part of what makes this hidden gem area of New Jersey so special.”
Bex is located at 52 Main Street in Califon, New Jersey.
