DAMARISCOTTA — River Arts Gallery is showcasing Ricardo Mark Yturregui’s abstract paintings in a solo show, “Journeys,” through July 14 in the River Room at 36 Elm St.
Known primarily for his large pieces of contemporary art, Yturregui’s work is primarily abstract or abstract expressionism.
Yturregui was raised in rural Maine and attended the University of Southern Maine, majoring in communications. He began painting in his early 20s and found some success selling his art on the streets of Portland.
Yturregui draws inspiration from life experience, his work as a house painter, and his travels throughout Europe, Brazil, and the U.S. He resides in Belfast.
Commenting on his artistic process, he said, “While I am at work, I often strive to capture a perfect moment in time and translate an image of that moment artistically to a canvas or wood panel,” according to a news release from the gallery.
Yturregui paints with acrylic and oil paints, house paint, yacht paint, epoxy resin, Bondo, sandpaper, and painter’s caulk to arrive at his desired finish.
For paint application he uses a variety of tools. Brushes, sheetrock taping knives, rags, and random household items are scattered throughout his studio, and even fingers are not off limits. His paintings consist of many layers applied in a controlled chaos, and then scratched off as if digging through the painting, searching. He uses predominantly cool winter colors that represent a universal sadness and anxiety but from time to time also includes vibrant color notes as a reminder that hope and resilience will prevail.
The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
For more information, call 207-563-6868.
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