Jeanne LeGrand and HERSTORY at ICON

We were invited to attend the art reception at ICON Modern Art Gallery to cover their exhibit for Herstory, A tapestry woven with the threads of women's resilience, courage, and unyielding spirit. It beckoned visitors to embark on a journey through time, exploring the myriad facets of femininity and the victories that punctuate its narrative.

After greeting our hosts at the door, we were offered champagne in adorable geometric glasses which were for us to take home, a charming gesture of appreciation of attendees that helped set the tone for the evening. There was even a palpable sense of belonging, as though we had been enveloped in the embrace of long-lost kindred spirits.

Each entry in the exhibit spoke volumes, echoing the voices of women past and present. Some resonated with the fiery indignation of witches persecuted, their rage searing through the canvas like the fire that persecuted so many in the past. Others whispered of dreams woven from the delicate threads of imagination, transporting us to ethereal realms where possibility knows no bounds.

Motherhood and creation took center stage in several of the pieces, their essence imbuing the gallery with a sense of reverence and awe for all celebrations of the female form – its curves and contours a testament to the beauty and strength inherent in womanhood.

Jeanne LeGrand's solo exhibit Finding Eden

A Memento Mori was set up in a separate section of the gallery, along with the artist herself, sharing over 25 pieces from the collection. It is difficult to believe, but each was more beautiful and captivating than the last.

We spoke with the artist for a few moments once the excitement had settled in the room to share our thoughts and inquire about some of her work. Jeanne shared that she has always been interested in the dark and macabre but doesn't let that prevent her love for a touch of flare, with pops of glow in the dark paint that are hard to detect at a glance, but really brings the work to life once the painting is exposed to a black light; which she passionately showcased for us going to multiple paintings to point out those finer details that may have been missed.

LeGrand shared that her journey for this exhibit started with Halloween Frida, which is depicted donning a black cat and crow in tow, her eyes illuminated like a celestial glow. It was here, in the intricate details of each painting, that we glimpsed the soul-stirring essence of Memento Mori – a theme that unfolded organically, like petals unfurling in the morning sun.

The eyes are said to be the windows to the soul, and with LeGrand's work, each piece beckoned us to peer deeper into the tapestry of their existence. Though not initially intentional, the prominence of the eyes served as a poignant reminder of life's impermanence and the profound beauty found in fleeting moments.

Throughout the collection, subtle messages danced amidst the flora and fauna, whispering of the ephemerality of life. Each serving as a gentle reminder to seize the present, revel in the splendor of existence, and to craft a narrative that transcends the bounds of time. We should let the wisdom of Memento Mori carry on with us – a luminous beacon guiding us through life's labyrinthine passages. For in LeGrand's artistry, we find not only a reflection of our transient existence but also a celebration of the indomitable spirit that defines us as individuals and as a collective.

Jeanne had several of her original works crafted into broaches or necklace pendants, allowing the lovers of her designs to take them with them wherever they go. Something that I personally appreciated, and took advantage of with my own little Halloween Frida!

Everyone had started to gather around as we finished up the night, and the preparations for announcing the winners for the Herstory exhibit were starting. The room was full of anticipation and excitement that could practically be cut with a knife.

First place went to Carlotta Succi for her acrylic painting on canvas titled Mother. Second place was awarded to Drew Rehwinkel for his bronze sculpture Unbound and Kelly Page received third place for their ink and mixed media piece titled Fruitful Containment.

As we bid farewell to Herstory, let us carry its legacy with us, for in the stories of women's triumphs and tribulations, we find not only inspiration but also a rallying cry for equality, justice, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

If you're a local artist and you've been getting encouragement from friends and family to exhibit your artwork, be sure to take a look at ICON's 2024 calendar, which outlines their monthly themes. You can find all the details about where to drop off and submit your work for their exhibitions on their website iconmodernartgallery.com!

Socials

Jeanne LeGrand - instagram.com/catgirlstudio/
ICON Modern Art Gallery -  instagram.com/iconmodernartgallery/