Ben Niles’ mesmerizing new exhibition at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC), FULL CIRCLE, pays tribute to a lifetime of artistic mediums and showcases a convergence of graphic design and painting in a series of delightfully colorful and geometric pieces.
This exhibition will be on display in The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery on SOPAC’s second and third floors from September 17 to November 19. A free opening reception will be held on Thursday, September 14 at 5PM.
Originally a graphic designer for Atlantic Records in Georgia, Niles comes from a lineage of talented artists. Niles transitioned from graphic design to his mixed-media paintings after studying the Italian masters, figure drawing, photography, and calligraphy in Cortona, Italy. It was during his time in Italy that Niles immersed himself in the rich artistic tradition that would greatly influence his artistic sensibilities.
The pieces in FULL CIRLCE display a remarkable fusion of acrylic, ink, and graphite, skillfully intertwined with the technique of screen printing. Their vibrant colors and drastic shapes and patterns explore the creation of positive and negative space.
Through this collection, Niles invites viewers to embrace and celebrate the beauty of creativity, as well as the interconnectedness between diverse art forms. The boundless possibilities that arise when art forms intertwine are showcased in every stroke and layer.
“Niles’ densely textured, eye-popping canvases are the perfect first art show to grace our gallery walls for Season 18 at SOPAC,” says SOPAC Executive Director Stephen Beaudoin. “How fitting that we’re starting the gallery’s season by showcasing the beautiful work of a South Orange, NJ resident artist! I can’t wait to see you at the Iris Gallery for this show, and encourage you to consider building or adding to your own personal art collection with one or more of Ben’s stunning works.”
This spellbinding merger of graphic design and painting represents the culmination of his education and experiences, bringing together the skills and inspirations he acquired throughout his career. FULL CIRCLE is a testament to the power of artistic exploration and the profound impact it can have on both the artist and the viewer.
Click HERE for a preview of the exhibition’s works. And to explore more of Niles’ work, visit his website www.nilesfineart.com.
If visitors are interested in making a purchase, they can contact Linda Beard at (973) 382-1035 or lindab@sopacnow.org.