Good news for the Art Market! I’m happy to report I found Art History happening in Alexandria, Virginia this past Friday. We left Rob Liberace’s art class early, reluctantly washing brushes and cleaning palettes, but eagerly anticipating Rob’s exhibition demo to follow at The Principle Gallery. There, his students, visitors, admirers and collectors would witness the man liberally called a “Living Master” in action, and see his latest paintings on display.
The gallery, located in the busy King Street historic area, was filled to capacity. The air was electric, the aura emanating from the paintings, infectious. The paintings, classical and allegorical, reflect the energy and spontaneity with which the artist imbues all of his work. He proved it during the live demo in which he painted his model, a prominent local figure, from life.
Starting with bold strokes, Rob created a quick, yet decisive underpainting in umber tones after which he added color. The canvas was transformed within minutes to a vibrant, luminous and remarkable likeness of the subject.
While Fortuny, Sorolla and Sargent, whom we discuss often in class, are masters of the recent past whose Real Art we study and reflect upon, we have new Real Art that picks up where they left off. Rob is quoted in the gallery’s brochure: “I am trying to respect and learn from the past while creating something uniquely my own.” Rob’s mastery continues to surprise and inspire us through both the boldness and gentleness with which they move us.
The exhibit runs until tomorrow. Please check it out online if you don’t have a chance to see it in person.
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