Water, Water, Everywhere…

by Delaynna Trim, Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art Curator

If you have not already, you need to check out the latest exhibit at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, Reflections on Water. It is filled with art from our permanent collection all featuring water. The pieces range from the 17th century to contemporary. Many are calm, peaceful scenes where you can see a perfect reflection in the water below.  Others are crashing waves illustrating the power of the ocean. Many of these pieces have not been on exhibit for a long time, so you can see some old friends and experience many new pieces. 

On the River Oise by Gustave Guillaumet

The best part of my job is getting to research and learn more about our collection. There are some great stories in this exhibit! Gustave Guillaumet, who painted On the River Oise, had a normal story until he met "a lady who was his senior by many years" according to the New York Times. In 1887, he moved in with his mistress, and after an argument, he shot himself. The bullet lodged in his intestines. His wife came and nursed him until his death. This was all relayed in a New York Times article about his death!

A couple of pieces in the exhibit are by Alfred Bricher, who is considered to be one of

Surf at Sunset by Alfred Bricher

the greatest maritime painters in the 19th century. He lived in the New York area for much of his life. He liked to explore how light hits and is reflected off the water. At the end of his life, he lived on Staten Island where he had views of the Lower New York Bay, Atlantic Ocean, and Raritan Bay.

Some of the artists represented had museum connections. There are a couple of pieces by Fr. Gregory Gerrer, but also a piece by Fr. Eloi Justou who was also a monk at St. Gregory’s Abbey. There is also a piece by Fr. John Walch who was director of the museum in the 1980s.

We even have a small painting by Albert Bierstadt who was known for his sweeping landscapes of the American West. He was born in Germany, but spent much of his adult life in New York. This piece features the Hendrick Hudson, a schooner sailing out of New York in 1859.

Rock Creek by Aloysius O'Kelly

Rock Creek Park, was created by Aloysius O’Kelly, who was the first Irish artist to train at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris. He later moved to New York.

Another painting features part of the 101 Ranch near Ponca City. Emil Lenders was from London and was fascinated by the Wild West shows. Buffalo Bill Cody convinced him to move to Oklahoma. He spent time on the 101 Ranch capturing scenes of bison and nature.

101 Ranch by Emil Lenders

There are so many great stories in this exhibit, so whether you need a respite and want to sit viewing the calm, reflective waters, or just want to dream of visiting these far-off waters, come enjoy Reflections on Water until July 20. There is free admission during the month of June thanks to the Avedis Foundation, Bancfirst, and St. Gregory’s Abbey.

For some water-related art activities, check out: https://www.mgmoa.org/art-projects/

Bubble Painting

Supplies: tempera paint or food coloring, cups, straws, dish soap, water, paper

1. Mix your paint or food coloring with water and a little dish soap in the cups or bowls

2. Place your straw in the cup or bowl and blow

3. Place your paper over the bubbles to capture them

4. Lift the paper to reveal the image. Repeat with different colors.