Top: Marc Barker - Pending - 36” x 48”, Bottom: Josette Simon-Gestin - On the Crest of the Waves #1 - 33.46” x 43.31”
This spring, from April 25th to June 1st, 2024, 1515 Lincoln Gallery is honored to host “Head in the Clouds,” a thought-provoking exhibition featuring longtime friends and colleagues, Marc Barker and Josette Simon-Gestin. This unique showcase brings together two artists renowned for their distinctive approaches to capturing the essence of both the physical world and the realms of imagination.
Marc Barker, an Oklahoma City based artist with a profound background in both science and art, delves into the ethereal beauty of cloudscapes, translating his contemplations on nature, the environment, and human introspection into expansive compositions. Barker’s work prompts a dialogue between the viewer and the vastness of both the external environment and internal vistas.
Josette Simon-Gestin, hailing from Brittany, France, and a cherished part of Oklahoma City's vibrant art scene since her time living here in 1987, offers a lively contrast with her dynamic figures and vivid backdrops. Drawing inspiration from her travels and the rich tapestry of life, Simon-Gestin’s work is a celebration of movement, color, and the complexity of the world. Her recent experiences in Shanghai’s bustling markets breathe life into her paintings, inviting the viewer into a world where every detail tells a story.
Quotes from the Artists
Josette Simon-Gestin reflects on her work: "I try to show the beauty and the complexity of the world. We all need a place away from the noise and the tumult, and through my art, I invite you into this peaceful, yet vibrant space."
Marc Barker shares his artistic philosophy: "I have no specific intention with my work; I don’t proselytize, preach nor swoon. Instead, I continue to pursue my own visual growth and self-inquiry in whatever medium and style reveal them best, hoping to share that unfolding as I learn."
1515 Lincoln Gallery is proud to present this exciting exhibition by two of the gallery’s premier consigned artists. The exhibition promises an immersive experience into the artistic journeys of Barker and Simon-Gestin whose works, though contrasting, share a common quest for understanding and expressing the multifaceted narratives of life and nature.
"Head in the Clouds” encapsulates the exploratory spirit and artistic diversity of both artists. Join us at the gallery for the opening reception on Thursday, April 25th, 6-8 pm.
