Exhibit showcasing work of Alton artist begins Friday at Quincy Art Center

QUINCY — The Quincy Art Center will begin to present on Friday “Wonder and Praise: Sun Smith-Forêt – Sculpture, Painting, SilverScreen Quilts, Riverwork Project,” an exhibit showcasing the artistry of Sun Smith-Forêt, an artist based in Alton.

Visitors are invited to experience Smith-Forêt’s work through August 3 in the galleries of The Quincy Art Center, 1515 Jersey. The exhibit will open with a reception from 7-9 p.m. on Friday, May 17, featuring an artist talk by Smith-Forêt at 7:30 pm. Attendees can engage with the artist and gain insights into her work and creative process.

“Wonder and Praise” features a diverse collection of quilts, knotted vessels, paintings and mixed media artworks, including the monumental “Riverwork Project,” which when put together would span more than 300 feet. The Riverwork Project includes collaboration from more than 70 artists exploring their connections to rivers through artwork. Area artists Faye Dant, Margaret Fessenden, KJ Jacoby, David Maas, Carol Clay Mann, Chris Taylor, Katie O’Neal and Danielle Thompson Pope contributed work to a Quincy-Hannibal regional Riverwork Panel, with guidance from artist Ann Miller Titus.

Smith-Foret’s paintings and vessels also explore connections to nature, spirituality, cinema and rivers. She holds a master of fine arts degree from Washington University and previously practiced as a psychotherapist, an element of her life that informs her artwork. Smith-Forêt’s work reflects a deep understanding of textile construction, quilts, sculpture, and functional objects. Much of the artwork contains collaborative elements, highlighting how connection and the amplification of other voices are important themes to Smith-Forêt.

Visitors can learn about the artwork from Smith-Forêt at a gallery discussion on July 13 from 1-2 p.m. The discussion will include the local area artists who contributed to the Riverwork Project.

Exhibits at The Art Center are always free and open to the public. This exhibit is made possible thanks to the support of sponsors — 644 Maine, Bella Santé, Hickory Stick Quilt Shop, Klingner & Associates, P.C., Mr. K’s Fabric Shop, Jerry and Lois Kruse, John and Susan Kissick, Doris Malacarne, Ann Miller Titus, Steve and Judy Siebers and Howard and Ruth Ann Snowden.

Quincy Art Center hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and by appointment.

For more information about the exhibit, visit www.quincyartcenter.org.