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I’ve been looking forward to the new show at Graham Gallery since I first saw it on the gallery calendar a few months ago. It is a one-woman show, featuring Marcella Maley’s new works, (this is her first solo show). She is known for creative, colorful and vibrant compositions, so join me for the first look.

For some reason I normally use the alley door when I visit the gallery (I often read newspapers and magazines from the back to the front, so my direction issues need to be worked on). I wished I had used the front door when I first viewed the show. The WOW factor would have kicked up a few notches. I always anticipate what I am going to see with a few preconceived notions. I was pleasantly surprised as I reached the show in the front of the gallery. The first words to describe what I saw were “the same, yet different.” Let me explain.

In some ways the work is the same. It has the color, exciting compositions and vibrancy. That’s a good thing. However, or maybe, in addition to, and in many more ways, her show is very different, different in a better way. Large panels. Complete, wall size compositions and sculptures. Marcy has titled the show “Just Crazy Enough” which may refer to the sculptures she has created. She uses found objects, which she arranges into constructions, which are just crazy enough, as well as adding a new dimension to her body of work.

Overall the show is the same (a little bit) and different (a whole lot). Marcy pulls together the familiar art signature that sets her apart; at the same time she has made a great step into new areas I find very worthy. It is easy to drive along the same road, in the same old Oldsmobile, at the same speed and in the same direction. When you have the courage to throw away the map, jump into the two seater, and put the pedal to the metal, you have entered ZOOM ZOOM country. Marcy’s new work has the impact I like to see when an artist reaches out and tries new things. Wait until you see the three panels titled “Begin with Possibilities”. Or just as full of energy, the 16 panel piece titled “Every End is a Beginning” They are both difference makers that give Marcy’s work a whole new look. Like the chrome on a new car, they add to the impact that every show needs. The difference makers that make this show worthy of many laps around the gallery.

There are definite connections to automotive references in all of this new work (I’ve made my share also). But don’t get hung up on trying to make the connection. The car theme gives her a starting line, but she takes the checkered flag, with or without car talk. I encourage you to place a red dot on the piece that red lines your tachometer. The value of Marcy’s work has just hit the fast lane.

The show runs through September 25th. Gallery Reception is Friday September 10th from 7:00pm – 9:00pm. Gallery Hours are Mon- Fri 9:30am – 5:30pm, Sat. 9:30am – 4:00pm, and open late till 8:00 Thurs.

About the author: Jerry Daniels

Jeremy Daniels graduated from McCook Sr. High in 1959. He received a BA in Fine Arts from Hastings College in 1963. After almost six years in the military, he worked for Dutton-Lainson Co. in Hastings for 44 years. He was a Vice President and Advertising Manager for the firm. His artworks include most painting media, as well as sculpture. His studio is in Hastings and he can be contacted at jldan@charter.net.