Libby MacKinney comments on war with her ‘bare bones’ painting titled “Absolutely Nothing.”

"The Stain of Politics 2" at Gallery 527 in Jerome on July 4th

(Sedona, Arizona • June 25, 2009) - What better way to celebrate the 4th of July than with a bit of political controversy?

First Saturday Jerome Art Walk at Gallery 527 will be opening night for a provocative show featuring the paintings of Libby MacKinney, Ninfa and new gallery member Mary Fisher.

Sedona artist Ninfa draws her inspiration from current events. The nightly news of staggering inhumanity prompts her to paint the story of the day.

From Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath to small stories of one woman’s heartbreaking loss, her comments on canvas are detailed paintings that show the viewer her interpretation of complex problems.

The artist is quite eloquent in her discussion about issues and she offers a unique perspective through her contemplative paintings on many themes.

Libby MacKinney’s interpretations reflect her concerns of prejudice, environmental destruction and at the other end of the spectrum, the positive force of strong women.

Her message is quite up lifting: “Art can immediately evoke emotion and create action for a better world without the scars of confrontation and the loss of life.” These “bare bones” paintings bring home this concept. The skeletal forms are a brilliant vehicle for her message.

Mary Fisher, Sedona artist and AIDS activist, joins this talented group with her quilts, handmade paper and mixed media masterpieces that express her concern for the world around her.

Speaking in Budapest Hungary at the USAID Conference of Public Health & Trafficking in Human Beings, Mary Fisher commented, "Because as human beings we draw our self-identity in large measure from what is said about us, messages given persons with AIDS or persons who've been trafficked are important. Language can also be a tool for abuse of power. If you tell us we are dirty, we feel shame. If you tell us we are societal problems, we feel guilt. If you have the power to lift us up and heal us, but say nothing about us, then we know by your silence that we are not worthy. Words matter so much, they can encourage us to give up all hope and go silently to a place where we take our own lives."

Her moving mixed media pieces will be part of The Stain of Politics 2 Show and are provocative reminders of the work that remains to be done.

Expect a political comment by assemblage artist Michael Craig Carrier and Joe Ward, ASU emerging artist.

Jerome legend Dave Rentz will be performing at Gallery 527 from 5:00-8:00PM on July 4th.

Come for the usual great party along with spirited conversation about the state of the world. For more information contact Donna @(928) 649-2277.