20 at hatch art
Celebrating Hatch’s 20th Anniversary
“Hatch was founded in 2006, so 2026 marks its 20th year of existence. To celebrate our improbable longevity, we are showing the work of 20 artists who have contributed tremendously to our development. This mixed media show will kick off our year of events, shows, and new ventures-- come help us get it started right!”
After a few years on hiatus from painting, Krysti Spence returns with her signature work as lovely as ever. Postcard sized settings staging tiny subjects force the viewer to slow down and really look. Stunningly detailed miniature teacups balance on a well-used brush. Perfectly placed shadows float the objects that wobble without falling. Just enough orangey sienna complements the blues animating the scene.
Bernal’s commentary on Erica Kirk presents as the Madonna but contradicts through actions. Her babe is carelessly released in favor of a bright tangerine pistol highlighted against ultramarine blue. The figure is traditionally garbed while a reveal of striped T-shirt implies a reality lying underneath. The paint is so heavily applied it oozes over the edges of the canvas and creates rough, cracked skin defying any attempt to convey youthful vitality.
On a lighter note is Biswas’ installation of delicate threads, leaves and seeds that gently twist and sway with the viewer as they stroll past. Purposefully shaped perforations dot the larger leaves adding to patterns and texture in both the structure itself as well as the shadows cast on the gallery wall. Earthy green strings and golden samaras—helicopter seeds—add a touch of color.
Jack Summers was a force in the Detroit art community, tirelessly supporting and encouraging anyone seeking toward the creative. He was a genuine soul of compassion and love. His collages appear whimsical—and are—but upon closer inspection, the imagery consistently addresses social challenges and inequalities. Upon his passing several years ago, the friend he was residing with became mentally unbalanced and removed all of Jack’s work to the curb, devastating all who knew and loved him. The work in this show is on loan by collectors as it’s the only work left in existence.
After earning an MFA in photography from Cranbrook Academy, Chris Schneider stayed on to run their summer programs. He landed an additional job with the city of Hamtramck who was interested in creating space for artists. Schneider teamed up with Sean Bieri, Suzanne Baumann and Matt Feazell launching local exhibitions at the newly opened Café 1923. This morphed into the space we currently know with the founders remaining on its board. Schneider is the face and heart of Hatch, championing local artists way before the international spotlight hit during Detroit’s decline into bankruptcy. That dark period generated cheap real estate, drawing even more artists to the area. Talent’s never been Detroit’s problem. The real issue is limited patronage, making sustaining a gallery for 20 years a monumental feat. Through ingenuity and unrelenting persistence and determination, Hatch has become a vital component in the fabric of our community as Detroit continues its rebound to innovative prosperity. Congratulations Hatch!
Featured Artists: Andy Malone, Boisali Biswas, Carl Wilson, Christopher Schneider, Coral Sifre, Dawn Smith, Gilda Snowden, Jack Summers, Jide Ajé, Krysti Spence, Laura Macintyre, Luke MacGilvray, Matt Feazell, Melissa Jones, Peter Daniel Bernal, Renee Willoughby, Robert Piatek, Sean Bieri, Suzanne Baumann, Tisch Mikhail Lewis.
On view through February 8th at Hatch Art 3456 Evaline, Hamtramck
*images are mine
direct quote from gallery materials
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FRIENDS OF DETROIT ART
Wayne County Community College Art Gallery
Maureen Bunch
SHOWS Of INTEREST THIS WEEK Most galleries are closing shows this week but these spaces generally always have something on view
Oakland University Art Gallery (opening Thurs)
Always pleasure