Fields of Magic: The Art of Terry Fortkamp

On exhibit on Circulation Area Wall: August 2nd thru August 29th.

An art reception will be held by the artist on Thursday, August 14th, from 5:00pm till 7:00pm, in the Circulation Area.

"Although the main body of my artwork over the years has been realistic paintings, etchings, and murals, I've continued to search for other ways to express my inner peace and joy. Well-known Cincinnati Papermaker Margaret Rhein’s 2010 solo exhibit at Paper Circle Gallery, Nelsonville, Ohio inspired me to take her workshop offered at the gallery. Her show of large paper pieces layered with leaves, flowers, and pulp painting created a three-dimensional look that for me had a feeling of stepping into an eternal space. This fascinated me, and I wanted to understand how she created this feeling. As I poured my first piece of paper and learned to add inclusions held by pouring various bottles of colored pulp over my placed items, I felt a euphoria I hadn't felt since childhood. This amazing feeling was the impetus for me to return to this exciting art form. Two years ago, that unforgettable experience inspired me to buy various colors of pulp and inclusions (pressed flowers, string, cloth, glitter and acrylic paint) to begin creating small, handmade pieces. As I experimented, I felt a sense of awe and wonder, and each piece became a floral landscape where I could incorporate realistic paintings like chairs, cats, or clothing hanging on a line. I treasure the feelings of joy and magic when combining these elements, and I am passionate about continuing to explore the creative possibilities of using handmade paper as a canvas to create themes and images that blend nature and life!" -- Terry Fortkamp