"NOT YOUR HIPSTER VINTAGE: In Their Own Way: Vintage Watercolors by Rhode Island Artists (1890-1960)
Bert Gallery
540 South Water Street
Providence, Rhode Island
Through March 19, 2010
by Meredith Cutler (for Artscope Magazine)
Article excerpt:
In 2010, Bert Gallery celebrates its 25th anniversary in Providence, making it one of the most tenacious and longstanding commercial galleries currently operating in the city. In a tumultuous local economy, this is no small feat.
Providence has a strong history of alternative art spaces of all stripes, but for private galleries, longevity is the exception, not th erule. Rhode Island's extended economic crisis has hit even the buzziest art establishments where it hurts. Recent closures of popular, albeit young galleries like 5 Traverse, YES Gallery and Stairwell Gallery have eviscerated the local roster.
In a steadfast departure from the offbeat mixed-media and industrial art trends championed in Providence art spaces, the Bert Gallery collection focuses instead on the cultural history of Providence and greater Rhode Island. Exhibits are pulled from their expansive inventory and estate holdings of paintings dating from the 19th century through the first half of the 20th century.
Opening up the year is a selection of watercolors with Rhode Island pedigrees: "In Their Own Way: Vintage Watercolors by Rhode Island Artists (1890-1960)."
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Image: Frank Mathewson (1861-1941), "Providence - From Fleur de Lys", 1936, watercolor.
