Nature is a deep-seeded theme within the artworks of Heidi Lanino. Whether working with ceramics and clay, large canvases and paints, drawing with charcoal or pencil, or recreating reclaimed wood, nature is present. Coupled with nature, is her appreciation of beauty as it emerges in her expressive use of line and her modeling and carving of sculpture.Female Figure I by Heidi Lanino

The Artist of Excellence series is reopened with Lanino’s show Ceramic Works on the Theme of Nature and Beauty which is presently on display in five glass vitrine cases in Mindy Ross Gallery Foyer of Kaplan Hall [February 20] through May 8, 2019. Viewing hours are 8am to 9pm Monday through Thursday and 8am to 6pm on Friday with extended hours on Friday, May 3 until 9pm. The Artists of Excellence series spotlights talented regional artists.

Her ceramic bowls and vases have earthy colors within intricate details that demonstrate the influence of various cultures. Both low fire underglazes and slips along with high fire glazes have been used in the process of making the pieces. Faces of women, several types of birds, and occasional horses are depicted in these exquisite works of art.

In addition, her newest figurative clay works of the female figure are part of the exhibit. Her Folded Females have moved from using paper or metal to creating portraits of the female in clay that suggest the shifting planes of cubist figures, the mythology of Greek goddesses, and a feminine sensuality.

Black Birds by Heidi LaninoA reception at which the artist will be present is scheduled from 3 to 5:30pm on March 30, in conjunction with Last Saturdays [NBLS#], an arts initiative in Newburgh. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public.

Also, free, secure parking is available in Kaplan Hall’s parking garage entered at 73 First St. Kaplan Hall is located at the corner of Grand & First Streets on the Newburgh campus of SUNY Orange. Questions may be directed to Cultural Affairs at (845)341-4891/9386 or cultural@sunyorange.edu