"In Bloom: Floral Interpretations" opening at the Jackson Junge Gallery

"Chicagoans traditionally embrace the onset of spring with an enthusiasm that manifests itself in so many ways," according to Chris Johnson, co-owner of The Jackson Junge Gallery at 1389 N. Milwaukee Ave. where the exhibit "In Bloom: Floral Interpretations" will be open Apr. 6 thru May 16. "This exhibit is to honor the Chicago tradition and celebrate the annual rite through many different artistic perspectives."

The forty-two piece show incorporates traditional oils, mixed media, digital art, photography, prints and batik all focused on a botanic theme.  Twelve of the pieces are by Laura Lee Junge, gallery co-owner, and the remainder by five other local artists: Kavan Geary, Jun-Jun Sta. Ana, Kate Hoyer, Sharon Bladholm and Irena Saparnis.

Vivid color and a swirling sense of motion in Junge's pieces provide the shows' ground. "I have always loved nature and enjoy introducing unexpected motion and life to the scenes I depict," Junge explains.  Used for the image to promote the show, "While Angels Sleep Your Love Shall Keep" is the last in a series of orchid paintings Junge created in late 2009.  The fragile stems curl to form a heart design in this fanciful piece.  The geometric background is a wash of colors suggestive of a rainbow.

Geary's photographs combine color, light and texture and deliver flowing sensual work.  Philippines born, Sta. Ana's digital botany series uses human figures to create floral images suggestive of traditional Asian brush stroke compositions. Hoyer's art is renowned for representations of canines in brilliant colors and geometric stripes.  Reminiscent of 80's pop culture, she brings that feel to her florals.

With a background in botanic research, Bladholm's work is based on her avid commitment to preserving world habitats such as in her documenting plants and animals in the Peruvian Amazon.  Though she works in many media, in this show she has a floral water color and hand colored monotone prints.  Rounding out the bouquet of artis is batik master Irene Saparnis. She presents red poppies popping out at the viewer, which are a result of her unique work with dyes.

The "In Bloom: Floral Interpretations" show hours are: Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sun. noon to 5 p.m. An opening reception will be held Fri., Apr. 9 from 6 p.m. 9 p.m.  There is no charge for admission.  The gallery can be reached at 773.227.7900.