Opening Reception | 'A Rural Menagerie'

Elizabeth Kinahan has created a whole new body of work for A Rural Menagerie. Kinahan explains, "This body of work is differentiated by an increased attention to detail of both subject and background, and a shift to smooth hardboard surfaces which take paint differently than the toothy grip of canvas. The elements of color, texture and brushstroke come together to create a narrative of a brief existence, allowing for a silent story to come to life." She also accepted commissions of special pets for this show, a couple of which were displayed in the exhibition.  

Elizabeth Kinahan received her Bachelors of Fine Art degree from the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown, New Jersey in 2004. The following year she packed up the car and headed west, in a move that would transform her creative process immensely. Although she had planned to move to Arizona, a stop in the town of Durango, Colorado became the beginning of a 13 year- and going- love affair with the high desert. Having known from a young age that her life ought to include direct proximity to nature, Elizabeth has found a fulfillment here that she never thought possible. She currently spends her days painting in a small cabin ten miles north of town, where she routinely gets visits from deer, turkeys, bear and foxes. She is a co-owner of Studio & Gallery, in downtown Durango, where you can often find her painting, bookkeeping, and hosting events. Elizabeth’s art strives to add beauty and compassion into the world, and serves to benefit organizations that rescue and protect both wild and domesticated animals.

Thank you to all who attended the Opening Reception and to those who collected a special piece from this show, the Richmond SPCA thanks you for your generosity. Elizabeth is still accepting commissions, so please call the gallery at 804-752-3540 if you are interested! 

Mark your calendars for our next exhibit, April Showers Bring May Flowers, a group show featuring floral themed artwork in a variety of mediums. Opening Reception is May 3, from 5:30-8pm.