Artist Expresses Hope Beauty is Only Skin Deep

No matter who we are, the beauty of youth is bound to leave us.

For women there are plenty of acceptable means available to postpone the appearances of aging. The billion dollar beauty industry provides tools such as Plastic surgery, Botox and makeup to stave off sagging skin and wrinkles.

“In Fallen — Now Risen,” artist Penny Tresses’  examines the feminine struggle to remain forever youthful and pin identity on the physical self.  In particular, she takes inspiration from a passage in “A New Earth” by Eckhart Tolle who writes:

 “If you don't equate the body with who you are, when Beauty fades, vigor diminishes, or the body becomes incapacitated, this will not affect your sense of worth or identity in any way.”

Asked Treese, “What would happen if women embraced the changes in their aging bodies instead of fighting them?” 

Through melting wax and paint over the photograph, she works to discover and bring forth the inner light and spirit that rises within.

 “It’s my hope that we can live with confidence that we are beautiful in whatever form we’re in.”

Treese, a photo encaustic artist, began her process for this series with an out-of-focus photograph of a nude. She purposefully distressed the image with water, wine, smoke and coffee, many of the elements that age our bodies, and cuts the picture into segments. Using layers of molten bees wax and bright paint pigments, she transforms and distorts the bodies further into fluid images.

Treese’s work is part of the exhibit “Fallen,” Oct. 8 through Oct. 31 at Decatur Market and Gallery. The exhibit will feature juried works interpreting the “fallen” theme, including painting, sculpture, ceramic mixed media and jewelry.

The opening reception is Oct. 8 from 5 to 10 p.m. and will be judged with an award granted to the Best in Show. An outdoor artist market of local art will be held in connection with the exhibit. Complementary wine and hors d oeuvres and live music are part of the festivities.

Other art events:

14th Annual Oakhurst Arts & Music Festival, Oct. 8, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the center of the Oakhurst community in Harmony Park.  Events include The 5K ArtsRun/Walk, local artists, live music, children’s activities, a parade, food and beverages. 

 “Divided Among Themselves,” Through  Oct. 16, Academy Theatre. When Mr. Marcus dies, his four daughters must reunite to divide his estates. The new play by Hank Kimmel explores family dynamics in the 21st century. www.academytheatre.org www.decaturgallery.com