When I discover artists who use their talents and skills to forge into new inspirational realms it offers me an opportunity to honor and reward them with international exposure. As the curator for “The Healing Power of Art: Love, Peace, Unity & Hope” juried exhibition I chose 57 artists from around the world. I also selected artists to receive Special Recognition Art Awards. Three of them are featured here: Gina Klawitter, Patrick Fleming and Lynn Sposito. Their innovative creative impulses transcend the norm. Each artist has developed a unique body of artwork driven by their interest in humanity. They lift our spirits and convey important messages. They have also earned many professional accolades.
As you view their art and read their statements you will understand why they deserve to receive your special attention. Please visit their websites to see more of their art and learn more about them.
Gina Klawitter
Profound, Visceral Life-Size Sculptures That Raise Awareness
Gina Klawitter, gklawitter.com, creates magnificent life-size sculptures that focus on the human form, notably those of people with disabilities. Her inimitable “Figurative Fabric Sculptures” formula and technique convey her belief: “People express themselves largely through body language. My work portrays our raw emotions, shared humanity, and the beauty of our various forms.”
Gina’s art is a tribute to her subjects and also provides viewers with a profound visceral experience. Her passion and desire to communicate important healing messages through art bring positive change to the world. Her enormous creative contributions, artistic proficiency, and empathy for all humans are qualities I seek when selecting artists for Special Recognition Art Awards.
When Gina submitted her entries to “The Healing Power of Art: Love, Peace, Unity & Hope” juried exhibition she provided this impenetrable statement: “Human connection fosters love – and love is essential to instilling peace, unity and hope. My Figurative Fabric Sculptures are formed directly from live models including professional dancers, persons with disabilities, maternity, and more. These lifelike works connect viewers to a greater sense of understanding and belonging; to experiencing the beauty and frailty of our common humanity while uncovering our universal needs and desires. Their flowing fabric and warm, reflective colors, transmit a sense of vitality and hope.”
Gina has created sculptures of Paralympians, Colorado Ballet dancers, mothers-to-be, and more. Her sculptures can be seen at various exhibitions and at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Visitor Center in Colorado Springs. They’ve also been exhibited at the History Colorado Center and the Armstrong Center for Dance. One of her sculptures was featured in the article “Today’s Masters: Go Figure” in Fine Art Connoisseur Magazine.
Patrick Fleming
Emotive Symbolic Sculpture That Transcends Space
For several years I have been enthralled with the sculpture by Patrick Fleming, fleming-fine-arts.com. This is not the first award he has received from me. He was also in the exhibition “Art That Lifts Our Spirits” and won an Award of Excellence. He is a remarkable sculptor with exceptional conceptual design prowess which he applies to convey multi-dimensional aspects of the human experience. His exquisite orchestration of symbolic forms, undulating movement, and presentation of positive and negative space command our attention and hold our fascination. He raises our awareness and ignites states of deep thought and emotion.
When Patrick submitted his entries to “The Healing Power of Art: Love, Peace, Unity & Hope” juried exhibition he submitted this profound statement: “The act of creation is an act of hope. I examine the duality of human nature through tangibles and negative space. The hope is that, like in these pieces, humanity can find unity with their emptiness, and in so doing, reach a place of healing and peace. We become art when we can accept our void and make it part of ourselves.”
Patrick is also the recipient of the People’s Choice Award, in the South Arkansas Art Center, El Dorado, Juried Exhibit, “Fragmented Fantasies”. You will find his art in many private collections and he has created commissioned pieces and sculpture restorations. He has been in numerous exhibitions including a solo show at Arts on Main Van Buren Arkansas and a group exhibition of Texas Society of Sculptors in 2023.
Lynn Sposito
Innovative, Tactile “Painted Mâché” With Uplifting Messages
Lynn Sposito, lynnspositostudios.com, is the creator of “Painted Mache” works of art that express her empathy and compassion for humanity. Her unique technique, using cut out forms, brings a rich, tactile depth of expression and visual interest that goes beyond painting. Her desire to create statement pieces places her in a position that is essential to artistic expression and the benefit of viewers.
With her submissions to “The Healing Power of Art: Love, Peace, Unity & Hope” juried exhibition she offered this enlightened statement: “My own life’s journey as an artist has brought me here as one who desires to convey the truths of love, peace, unity and hope through my art. Grounded-ness, juxtaposed with feelings of complete, encompassing, elevated and ethereal love, my art is infused with loving, positive and healing frequencies. Using a technique I call ‘Painted Mâché’, the result is my offering for the viewer, a knowing of love, hope and peace. We are not meant to make this journey alone.”
Lynn’s art has been selected into many juried shows including “CREATIVA-Woman Made Art Show” at the Osceola Center for the Arts and in the the 1st Thursdays events at the Orlando Museum of Art as well as City Arts, Orlando. Most recently, her artwork “Against the Odds” was selected to be part of the Copelouzos Art Museum’s permanent collection in Athens, Greece.
Learn About “The Healing Power of Art: Love, Peace, Unity & Hope” Exhibition
Gina Klawitter says
I’m honored to be recognized among the many talented artists whose passion is to foster healing through our art. Thank you, Renee Phillips for promoting our vocation and your tireless endeavor as a Healing Art catalyst!
Joanne says
Thank you Renee for the work you do and for rewarding deserving artists. As a physical therapist I appreciate Gina’s artwork which is contributing to increase the quality of life for many who need it. Being introduced to her artwork and this entire exhibition is an inspiration. I will share the link to my patients and associates.
Gina Klawitter says
Thank you for your expressed appreciation of my artwork, Joanne. Made my day. I also appreciate the healing work you do as a physical therapist! Cheers!
john evans says
Congratulations to all of the artists and bravo to you Renee for sharing another wonderful article about artists who are embarking upon new positive creative territories!