Marisa Bernotti - Reflective Noise

Marisa Bernotti is a multi-disciplinary artist from Uruguay. She has been recognized for her contribution to the development of the land in artistic activity, addressing women's rights and for promoting children's literature. She is also involved in the I Found U global collective of interdisciplinary artists. She is exhibiting during the month of August at the Peoria Art Guild as well as conducting a residency here.

 Marisa Bernotti is a reactionary painter -- one whose feelings are focused on news stories, injustices, diseases and their effects on society, e.g. COVID, and even the most innocent of consequences. Her work is rich with color and a vivid palette that defines her emotions of the moment. Her "Journal" and "Chimerical" narratives are evocative of the experience of intimate friendships and, possibly, isolation during an unsettling time. Depicted with various media, her overlapping figures combine various viewpoints to reflect different emotions occurring simultaneously. Some of her figures seem assaulted by fear, paranoia, panic and distress, BUT handled with beauty, elegance, and resolve to provide us an antidote. 

Included in "Reflective Noise" are a series of purses and handbags that have been embellished by the artist. These "Handbags That Are Not Handbags" are sculptural works which typically are daily organizers and storage for individuals most personal items. Bernotti's touch allows them to become three dimensional objects that reach out from the intended use to engage the viewer in a public discussion of blurring the line between functional and artistic. 

During her residency here at the Peoria Art Guild, she will be presenting two workshops; one painting for youth and an adult Handbag workshop. The exhibition, "Reflective Noise," will include numerous works on paper, as well as her Handbag sculptures. Join us for an opening reception on the First Friday, August 6 , 2021 from 5pm until 9pm.