Reflections & Undercurrents:

Ernest Roth and Printmaking in Venice, 1900-1940

Ernest Roth (1879-1964), Ca d'Oro, 1913. Etching. Private collection.

The Mitchell Gallery is opening its newest exhibition on Friday and so we have been very busy with installation.

The city of Venice has long been a source of inspiration for artists and this exhibition focuses on the works of American artist Ernest Roth (1879-1964) and his contemporaries. Roth was one of the most significant American etchers of the first half of the twentieth century. Although Roth created many views of important world cities, it is his prints of Italy there are considered his most important achievement.

The exhibition explores the precursors of Roth's works which include James McNeill Whistler and his circle of artists: Joseph Pennell, Otto Bacher, Mortimer Menpes and continues on through the examination of the better known artists around him. Even though the etching process itself is fairly uniform, the variances of each artists' treatment of "the line" creates a fascinating tour of Venice. 

Exhibition curator Eric Denker has thoughtfully put together a shared exhibition of over 100 etchings  with the Mitchell Gallery at St. John's College and the Kohl Gallery at Washington College in Chestertown.  Mr. Denker has two lectures scheduled, one at the Kohl Gallery at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23 and at The Mitchell Gallery at 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 27. There is a Mitchell Gallery members wine and cheese reception following the Sunday lecture and this will be a great opportunity to chat with Mr. Denker.

Ca d'Oro, Venice

It is worth mentioning that the Mitchell Gallery is offering a trip to the Dalmation Coast beginning and ending in Venice, June 18-26, 2014. For more information about this fabulous trip, e-mail pmckee7@verizon.net . This is a great opportunity to see some of the views of La Serenissima, Croatia and other sights.

If you aren't a Mitchell Gallery member, consider joining this dedicated group of art enthusiasts! Membership can be on-line through the Mitchell Gallery website http://www.sjca.edu/mitchellgallery/main.shtml or contact the Members Coordinator at (410) 295-5551.