Being an art apprentice can trump the TV kind. Just ask Andre Barcus, whose paintings have been exhibited from Silver Spring to Scotland. Pointing to a canvas at WVSA’s ARTiculate Gallery in which mixed patterns frame spirited canine subjects, Barcus, 26, sums up his approach: “I take the [image] from abstract to realistic.”
The Oxon Hill artist has been a member of WVSA ARTs Connection since his teens. The D.C.-area nonprofit nurtures the talent of youth with special needs. The product merits wall space, not relegation to the refrigerator door. There are whimsical representational works, engaging abstracts, and shades of the visionary. Dozens of pieces crowd the walls of their 16th Street digs.
“Every Dog Has Its Day, Part 2” is an extension of WVSA’s winter project in which people commissioned a portrait of their pooches. It involved an element of chance since the artist was randomly assigned vs. chosen by the buyer.
The results seemed apparent by the smiles on the buyers’ faces at the official unveiling of the second installment.
WVSA apprentice Bradley Hill fresh contemporary graphic approach. Rebecca Silver, 19, captures an unusual stance of a brown dog. Her works reflects her exuberant personality. Denis is new to the program but the skill with which he rendered the expressive eyes and fur texture of his subjects displays maturity beyond his 16 years. They do justice to the concept of man’s best friend. Be assured, a few cats have infiltrated this creative dog house.
Ruff edges? They’re part of any pack. But the show’s tail-wagging highlights stand as conversation pieces as enduring as some investments created by established artists. “Or,” suggested one proud owner of a commissioned piece, “more so.”
Having received more than 200 pet portrait commissions, WVSA has begun accepting commissions for music-themed art for its April show. Sound good? You can commission one too.
Every Dog Has Its Day, Part 2
On view through March 28
» Venue: ARTiculate Gallery, 1100 16th St. NW
» Info: 202-296-9100; wvsarts.org
» Related event: Music art show reception 5:30 p.m. March 29
