Two new exhibits open at Thyen-Clark Cultural Center

Two new exhibits will open at the Thyen-Clark Cultural Center on April 3.

Bloomington artist Abbigayle Poirier will have a solo exhibition titled Murmuring Winds through April and May. It features works that combine gelli printing and painting.

Abbigayle Poirier’s art practice is rooted in figurative landscape painting inspired by folklore, dreams, personal experiences and invented narratives.

“Based on these tales, I create paintings, monotypes, and drawings from observation and imagination. Through the mingling of traditional of these folklore and new narratives, I aim to weave new threads into these timeless stories,” the artist explained. “By altering stories that have been passed down through generations, I seek to engage viewers in a dialogue that transcends the boundaries of cultural confines. The stories I pull from are told in places I have lived in or have visited. I must physically spend time in the landscape where these tales stem from to feel comfortable approaching them through paint.”

Her palette reflects this interplay between the original story and the adaptation, which incorporates her personal narratives and dreams. Saturated hues mingle with muted tones, creating a visual language that mirrors the tension between the traditional story and innovation.

“Through this, I invite the audience to reconsider the narratives they thought they knew and to question the boundaries of myth and reality,” Poirer said. “While I often work directly from observation, I find it exciting to change colors and foliage placement and simplify or complicate what I see around me. Like with folklore, I am not merely aiming to depict the landscape precisely as I see it but to heighten the experience of being in it: by aiming to evoke the warmth of the sun, the chill of the wind, the rustling of the leaves, to transform the story as well as the location. I play with all elements of the painting and ultimately listen to what the painting needs.”

The universality of these tales inspires Poirier—even if the viewer does not recognize the story–these narratives echo shared human truths, fears, and aspirations. She aims to foster a sense of connection and empathy, inviting viewers to recognize the common threads that bind us. She hopes to spark a renewed appreciation for the power of storytelling.

Abbigayle Poirier will join us for a Gallery Talk at The First Thursday Reception on Thursday, April 3rd, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Free event and open to the public.

Sheila Fox’s mixed media exhibition will also open on April 3 and run through June 15.

The Louisville artist’s exhibit ‘The Art of Mixed Media: A Journey Through Texture & Color’ features a variety of mixed media large paintings.

Sheila Fox, known artistically as Godiva Goddess, is a Louisville-based artist with roots in Chicago. Drawing inspiration from her cultural background and a deep passion for vintage fashion, hair, and beauty. Sheila creates vibrant, textured works that celebrate elegance, individuality, and strength. Her art incorporates materials such as a fabric, lace, and resin to produce one-of-a-kind, visually striking pieces.

A self-taught artist with over 25 years of creative experience, Sheila left a career in welding to pursue her passion full-time. Her work blends technical skill with emotional depth, sparking meaningful conversations about identity and personal expression.

Through her ever-evolving techniques, Sheila invites viewers into a world of beauty, history, and meaning – reminding us of the transformative power of art.

Fox will also join us for a Gallery Talk at The First Thursday Reception on Thursday, April 3rd, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Free event and open to the public.

The galleries at the Thyen-Clark Cultural Center, located at 100 3rd Avenue, Suite A, are open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, and Sunday from noon to 3:00 pm. School groups, clubs, and students are welcome. Admission is free. Donations appreciated.