When Artists Go Rogue

After years of following the same narratives or using the same medium, sometimes artists defy their own expectations and inner voice to follow uncharted paths. That seems to be what’s happening with H-D Art lately.

Both artists paint in oil on handmade canvases. Huye is strictly a narrative portraitist who normally focuses on self-portraits, but her voice has expanded to take on a New Orleans accent blending together many diferent cultures and sights. For example, the first five plates of her plate series were done prior to moving to fOLA, and express different emotions experienced on different days. They are internal questions she asks of herself. They are self-evaluations. The newest plates, though the same size and also in oil, are an intermingling of architectural elements unique to New Orleans and personal “portraits” of loved ones. They are “looking outward,” external visions that are leading her paint brush. They ask no questions, but record her new environmental influences.

DiBenedetto is swimming the uncharted waters of mixed media; charcoal, chalk, pastels, paints, and working on paper instead of canvas. In other words, she is using everything but oil. She is, “Taking a break from her abstract crow series to capture some creatives she admires—musicians, artists, art patrons, community leaders, and singers.” As with oil, she only does portraits of those who’ve earned her respect. (She wouldn’t elaborate further).

H-D Art’s “rogue period” dovetailed nicely with an invitation to show their art in an upcoming show at La Divina Italian Café. Stephanie believes that many people prefer representational art over non-representational. Although she paints non-representationally, she definitely enjoys sharing the details of her work so the viewer knows exactly what the narrative is and what her process was. Her artist statement is interesting and gives important insights into her mindset and intentions. She is a natural teacher and wants to educate others so that art takes its rightful place in the world, and is not just, “something to use as an accessory or a decorative item.” “Whether disturbing, joyous, or whimsical, each painting brings emotions that should elicit a response—a connection—with the painting. There is no right or wrong, good or bad, only the connectivity,” Huye explains.

Alaine believes artwork that focuses on realism lacks narrative and emotion, and that nonrepresentational work is a harder read, especially abstracts. “I don’t do photographic likeness, that’s what cameras are for. Plus, they have no soul,” she stated. Her artist statement is five words long.

Huye will curate the September 4th show, combining fifteen pieces from each artist for sale. And it guarantees to be the most interesting mix to date. The reception is free, and all are invited to attend. Wine, beer, and hors d'oeuvres will be served at the opening reception. Details found at https://www.facebook.com/events/2315023385427952/

New Orleans Plate Series, Stephanie Huye