From the Monastery to Spoke Gallery

By Carol Masshardt

The Spoke Gallery on 840 Summer St. is more than beautiful brick and mortar and welcoming environment. It is a dynamic, engaged art and civic engagement treasure that works with teens and adults in the most interesting of ways.

Currently, the gallery is featuring the new work of a group of artists who traveled to a monastery in Italy and for two weeks and shared life, art, and perspectives. They included: Michael Dowling, John Engstrom, Phoebe Flemming, Fiona Horning, Joanne Kaliontzis, George Summers, Jr., John Provenzano, Raymond Rodriguez, Amy Jean Romero, Michael Wonson, and Crispin Wood. Though a “retreat” from the everyday, the vigor of work displayed and spirited reflections indicate a time of growth and joy.

The following is a sampling of artists comments:

“The trip allowed me time and space to be somewhere beautiful and where I could create art without interruption.” Joanne K.

“This was my eighth trip, and each is different, but every time it is magical. It allows me the freedom to step outside of myself. It is supportive. You need paint, and someone will have it. Need an erasure? Here it is.” Amy Jean R.

“It was a wonderful experience of community. The setting and people were inspiring. I moved in a new direction artistically,” John E.

“Focusing on process over product had a big impact on me. I got over worrying about what I was going to make and just did it. It was an interesting group of people and you saw the nuns in this ancient place.” Fiona H.

“You develop certain routines and then you are in Tuscany, and you think differently. Of course, time with Michael Dowling is inspiring and for two weeks you become immersed, and the mix of people is inspiring. I usually only go places for one week! This was like a stew with all the right ingredients.” Crispin W.

At the opening on July 12 th , the exquisitely diverse artwork was on display and artists, neighbors, friends, and families came together to imagine travel, community, and art in quite a unique way. The exhibit “From the Monastery” is up until August 15 th and Michael Dowling is also sponsoring another trip to Italy (and one to Ireland) in 2024! He can be contacted at www.spokeart.org

(Carol Masshardt can be reached at carolhardt@ comcast.net)