Nov. 26, 2002 – New oil paintings by St. John artist Patty Tacquard are the subject of an exhibition opening at the Wicker Wood & Shells gallery in Mongoose Junction on Friday evening with a wine and champagne reception from 5 to 8 p.m.
The opening and opportunity to meet the artist are part of Friday's annual "Evening in the Courtyard" festivities, the traditional launch of the holiday gift-giving season in the St. John shopping complex.
Tacquard, a former California resident, was a St. John visitor for 11 years before she made the island her permanent home in 2000. She has a degree in architecture and design from the University of California at Berkeley and most recently studied with California artist Mercedes Bantz.
"Painting on St. John is wonderful for me for much the same reason that living here is," Tacquard says. "At first, one is astounded by the turquoise water, the tropical flora, the light on the water, the palms, beaches … But then, when you have a little time, you begin to focus on the small scenes, too: the perfect shady spot, the reflections off the water, the beauty of a mango, or the herds of goats…"
She recalls that as a child with her first Brownie camera, she was drawn to the "close-up" shot. Today, "My zoom lens is almost a permanent fixture on my camera," she says. Similarly, she adds, "in my paintings, I like to focus on the vignettes of the islands. I'm always looking for the next perfect, surprise close-up view."
For a preview of Tacquard's work, visit the Wicker Wood & Shells Web site. For more information, call co-owner Jim Nelson at 776-6909.
Wicker Wood & Shells is open daily. Along with an extensive selection of original art and prints, it features sculpture, glass art, Bovano glass enamels, crafts, gifts, cards and a selection of island books.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
