“Convergence,” a unique expression and display of the creative and collective talents of artist (painter) Steven DeLair and photographer (artist) Mark Dahmke opens First Friday, November 1, with a 4-8 p.m. reception. Each artist will show some of his own work. The convergence of the two is revealed in collaborative, compelling prints that test the eye.
Mark Dahmke explains, “I’ve enjoyed working with Steven DeLair to capture microscopic landscapes that are hidden in plain sight. The images presented at this show represent a convergence of medium and style. Our collaborative work melds macrophotography and painting to produce unique and emergent forms.”
DeLair’s paintings and Dahmke’s drone photographs show their individual styles. Painter Steven DeLair notes, “Being an artist for me simply means the freedom to explore, focus and create a captivating visual sense or experience that people can relate to and appreciate. Through my painting I aim to create the allure of visual simplicity. Our culture can be very chaotic and anxious. It was many years before I realized that the subconscious quest for simplicity was in response to the complexity of life that surround us.”
DeLair earned his BFA from the University of Nebraska. He began his full-time artistic career in 1981, with representation in 15 galleries at different times in Arizona, California, Texas and Florida. His work appears in many private, corporate and public collections and publications including Sheldon Art Museum, Lincoln; Pageant of the Masters/Festival of the Arts, Laguna Beach, California; and La Prenda Wines, Sonoma, California.
A photographer whose interest began in the 1960s, Dahmke began to explore the possibilities of aerial drone photos in 2014. He takes a very scientific approach to image sharpness using various digital techniques, while at the same time staying true to the original image.
An amateur astronomer and astrophotographer, he also experimented in other media, including AI, electronics and digital painting. Previous collaborations include a work with encaustic artist Margaret Berry combining encaustic with computer-controlled backlighting, designed to mimic a day-night cycle, with the addition of LED fireflies.
The exhibit is supported in part by the Nebraska Arts Council, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and donors to the non-profit WallSpace for Artists and Audiences. Works are available for viewing and purchase Fridays-Sundays, 12–5 p.m. November 1-30 or by appointment (sdelairlincoln@gmail.com).
Monthly exhibitions through the end of 2024 are supported in part by a Mini-Grant from the
