A Breath of Plein Air at The Dutot

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

A celebration of the beauty found within the town of Delaware Water Gap, PA was showcased at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery as an Artists Reception that featured a silent auction was held on Saturday October 22^nd. The event was a cumulation of the venue's En Plein Air Paint Out endeavor which invited artists to paint the town and its environs from October 15^th to the 21^st. A variety of styles and visions resulted in this clarion call to creativity that was answered by 20 superbly talented artists.

The insightful beauty that hung upon the walls of the gallery was communally breathtaking to the large number of art lovers who attended the reception. Pages were placed by each painting so those in attendance could bid on their favorite pieces they would like to take home after the silent auction concluded. The music provided by guitarist Marty Wilson added an ambiance to the conversations that transpired as the plentiful food enhanced the delicious flavor of the afternoon.

The exhibit was a juried one and the daunting task of determining which of the work was deserving of special recognition went to Rita Baragona and Ken Metcalf. An excitement filled the air as the winners were announced. Honorable Mentions were given to Lori Gearhart and Will Rothfuss. The award for Third Place went to F. Lisa Hannick, the award for Second Place went to Maharu Lane, and the Best in Show (First Place) award went to Tricia Lowery Lippert. In addition to the gift certificate and other prizes she received, Ms. Lippert will be offered a solo exhibit at the Dutot during their 2017 season. The revealing of each award recipient was greeted by a loving demonstration of congratulatory appreciation by the gathering.

It was some time after this was it announced that the bidding for the silent auction would be concluded. Many individuals desiring to acquire some of the beauty they discovered upon the canvases that adorned the room quickly affixed their signature and the monetary value they placed on the painting they coveted. After the bidding was over and those who would take home their painting were determined, signatures were placed upon checks to complete their purchase. Soon the walls became emptied as the sold items were welcomed to their new abode. The gathering also began to depart while bidding each other a fond adieu and everyone brought home some wonderful memories. You'll find more photographs taken during the Exhibition in The A Breath of Plein Air at The Dutot Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155385353093761.1073742026.91146283760&type=3.

Rita Baragona was born in New York, NY in 1945 and received a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University in 1967. She then attended the New York Studio School from 1968 to 1970. Ms. Baragona has exhibited her work at Bowery Gallery in New York, NY, The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery, and many other venues. You can learn more about Rita Baragona and her work by exploring her Website at www.ritabaragona.com.

Kenneth Metcalf attended The Rhode Island School of Design and is based in Knowlton, NJ which is along the Delaware River. Mr. Metcalf utilizes his creative nature and abilities to express his personal vision of the peaceful, contemplative aspects of his natural surroundings. He has exhibited in various galleries, group exhibitions, and his works are in private collections. You can learn more about Kenneth Metcalf and his work by exploring his Website at www.kennethmetcalf.com.

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery originated as a brick school house built c. 1850 by Antoine Dutot who founded the town of Dutotsville before it was renamed to Delaware Water Gap, PA. In addition to the exhibitions presented at the gallery, the museum offers tours and educational opportunities for those who would like to learn more about the area. The gallery is open every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 5 pm from the month of May to October (Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend). Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/DutotMuseumAndGallery?fref=ts or their Website at www.dutotmuseum.com for more information.