Press Release

NEW ORLEANS---Heriard-Cimino Gallery presents New Paintings by Anastasia Pelias. A reception to meet the artist will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2004 from 6 to 9 p.m. The public is invited. The exhibition will be on view from June 5 through June 29, 2004. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday 10:30 to 5:30, and Saturday 10 to 5, or by appointment.

The Exhibition

Pelias uses thin washes of paint and turpentine to create provocative translucent curtains of color onto the canvas, interjecting horizontal bands that vary in size, opacity and color.

Pelias states her interest lies in the exploration of possibilities of combining both gestural and deliberate marks with equal intention, investigating both organic and synthetic color within our everyday environment. Purple passion flowers, blue gatorade, kitchen towels and green astroturf inform her color choices. In discussing her work she explains, “I paint repetitively, in a way not dissimilar to the execution of domestic chores.” Throughout the series fluidity of color and emotion pervade, evoking subliminal floating voices within each piece. Her paintings appear both tentative and definitive; the counterpoint creating a rich and visually arresting beauty.

Anastasia Pelias is a native of New Orleans, receiving her B.F.A. from Newcomb College, Tulane University and her M.F.A. from the University of New Orleans. Pelias has been exhibiting her work in solo and group exhibitions since 1986. Her work can be found in both public and private collections throughout the country.