The Macabre Refreshes A Community

The Gallery at The Pocono Community Theater and Cultural Center in East Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception featuring the work of Abigail Braman www.facebook.com/AbigailBramanArt?ref=hl and Michael Parsons on Thursday September 19th. Both artists have become well known throughout the Monroe County Area for their macabre style and approach to the subjects they capture on canvas. This is often seen as a refreshing change to the “one size fits all” variety of art common to a somewhat predominately conservative community.

This refreshing vision was embodied in the exhibition presented at the theater’s gallery as the depth of each piece drew the viewer deeply into its dark world and often served as reflections mirroring an aspect of their personality they might otherwise shy away from; denying its existence. The work of these two artists confronts each viewer with their imageries leaving no avenue to escape from them or themselves. Yet, there is no sense of dismalness in the work as a certain beauty allows one to look upon the darkness without instilling a sense of dread in their being.

The work was presented in a unique fashion as compared to earlier exhibits held as the gallery. In previous exhibition, the work of the two featured artist were shown separately with one artist’s work hung in the theater’s gallery located in the lobby area while the other’s work was placed upon wall in the hallway leading to their 2nd and 3rd theaters. The work of Ms. Braman and Mr. Parson was mixed together allowing those who viewed the exhibit to better feel a certain commonality of their creative endeavors as well as bringing an ease in detecting the subtle contrasts in their styles.

The similarities and differences of these two artists along with the subjects they explore are well worth experiencing. However, it’s unfortunate there were only a sparse number of individuals who attended the artists’ reception of these artists who deserve more attention for their creative endeavors. It is hoped those who enter the theater to view a film will take some time to explore the work as well so they could benefit from its properties. In the meantime, you’ll find more photographs taken during the reception in The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) 2013 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151611158600421.1073741828.636000420&type=1.

The Exhibition continues until November 17th with the artists featured in the next exhibition yet to be announced. In addition to hosting art exhibits, The Pocono Community Theater presents a variety of films both popularly current as well revivals of those films released in the past. They also host special events such as their Book Club which explore novels that have been adapted to the screen and are currently being shown in the theater. Please Explore The Pocono Community Theater Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/PoconoCommunityTheater?ref=ts&fref=ts for more information.