Women: Bold-Brilliant and Beautiful | Art Haus
I Visited ART HAUS
(and Conducted a Thorough Inspection)
I would like to begin by saying:
I am an excellent gallery guest.
I arrived at ART HAUS with a clear purpose—
to inspect, observe, and, if necessary, gently supervise the evening.
The doors? Welcoming.
The lighting? Flattering.
The energy? Already humming before I even made my entrance.
I approved.
The Exhibition
I had the distinct pleasure of attending Women: Bold, Brilliant, and Beautiful.
And I can confirm:
the title is accurate.
This exhibition features the work of:
Elli Albrecht, Donna McInerney, Lori Beneyton, Bathsheba Monk, Pam Dent, Michelle Neifert, Rosemary Gesick, Jane Noel, Andi Grunberg, Maryann Riker, Ana Hamilton, Tory Schultz, Jane Heft, Heather Sincavage, Judy Ann Hitchcock, Sharon Smith, Katie Hovencamp, and Melissa Strawser.
(Yes, I made a point to review everyone.)
The work does not whisper.
It speaks—clearly, confidently, and in many different voices.
Some pieces pulled me in immediately.
Others required a longer stare (which I happily provided).
As a docent, I take my time.
I recommend you do the same.
My Rounds
I made several passes through the gallery.
This is important work.
I positioned myself at optimal viewing angles.
I observed human interactions with the artwork.
I noted moments of pause, curiosity, and delight.
I also met many of the artists.
They were brilliant.
Warm.
Very photogenic.
I made myself available for portraits.
The Humans
There were many excellent humans in attendance.
Some were deep in conversation about the work.
Some were quietly taking it all in.
Some were holding snacks.
I made note of all of this.
The room had that particular kind of energy I look for—
a balance of movement and stillness, conversation and contemplation.
No one was rushing.
This pleased me.
The Art (A Professional Assessment)
Seeing artwork in person is very important.
Textures exist.
Edges matter.
Colors behave differently depending on where you stand.
I observed several moments where a human would walk past a piece…
then stop…
then return.
This is a sign of strong work.
I nodded (internally, but with great seriousness).
The Snack Situation
I feel it is my responsibility to report on all aspects of the evening.
There were snacks.
I conducted a close-range evaluation.
Extended observation was required.
Everything appeared to be in order.
The Space
ART HAUS understands how to hold a show.
The space allows for movement, but also invites stillness.
You can wander, but you are also gently encouraged to look again.
I appreciate this.
A good gallery does not rush you.
My Final Thoughts (As a Professional Tiny Docent)
I recommend visiting.
Take your time.
Look twice.
Stand in front of something longer than feels necessary.
If you can, speak with an artist.
Ask a question.
Let the work unfold a little.
I have already completed my inspection.
You are in very good hands.
Art Haus Gallery
645 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18104
Women: Bold - Brilliant and Beautiful
Show runs March 18 - April 17