7 Must-See Art Shows in February

by Victoria Rose, Brandywine Art Guide Editor

Lead images: Boundless by Nina Boodhansingh, “A Poem Called American Me” by Dane Tilghman, cement work from Emily Mullet, mixed media by Michael Bugler.

Which are the must-see art shows this month? The Brandywine Valley is filled with creative, passionate and uniquely talented artists working in a variety of mediums – and locations. Ready to discover the depth and diversity within our artistic community? From galleries to universities, museums to tattoo parlors, these are the shows I am looking forward to seeing this month.

Archive

Ravensgate, Phoenixville

An art gallery in a tattoo parlor? Yes. Ravensgate is one of Chester County’s premier tattoo parlors, but it is more than meets the eye. Walk into the bright storefront and see Archive, a solo show from local artist Emily Mullet. Comparing current artworks to creations from over a decade ago, the show examines texture, grunge, florals, and femininity. Using vintage frames, stencils, cement and more, Mullet described her work as “playing with the balance of creating something that is simultaneously ‘really pretty’ and ‘really dirty.’” It is a beautiful match to the setting, where art becomes a permanent part of personal exhibitions every day. Through Feb. 28.

The Red Show

Corner Art Collective,

West Chester

Breaking conventions is becoming standard at The Corner Art Collective. Since opening less than a year ago, its shows have explored shades of gray, played with scale, and been, well, monstrous. Owners Rob Diteodoro and Joshua Ruggeri set bold goals for their new gallery, and the upcoming Red Show showcases that with a unique intensity. “We said from the beginning that we wanted to break the mold and encourage people to think outside the box,” said Diteodoro. Artists are taking that to heart, as well as the strict color guidelines of this show: red, black, and white. “Red signifies passion, blood, energy, and intense emotion, while black embodies mystery, strength, and sophistication,” said Ruggeri. “White, on the other hand, represents simplicity, and a blank canvas awaiting application from its ‘visualist.’ The mix of these colors within the work offer a narrative, inviting viewers to engage with the meanings embedded in each vibrant piece of work.” Bathed in the bold hue, the gallery continues to center on creating community and collaboration. “I think it’s extra special when everyone has created their pieces in the weeks leading up to the show,” said Diteodoro. “It is a collective energy, and the show is like a release and celebration.” Feb. 24-March 9. Opening Reception: Feb. 24, 4 pm-8 pm.

RECRAFT

Delaware Contemporary

Wilmington

Appreciating art is a universal experience, constantly escaping the boundaries of museums and two dimensions. RECRAFT at the Delaware Contemporary museum “looks at ways in which recycled, repurposed or craft-associated materials might intersect with traditional materials such as paint, ink and stone.” Works from 10 regional artists explore unique art-making practices including puppetry, macrame, knot-tying, quilting, and more. From a giant installation in the lobby to nailed landscapes to immersive rooms, the exhibition further blurs the already scattered line between art and craft. Through May 26. ART pARTy: March 23, 6 pm-10 pm.

A Poem Called American Me and Materials & Messages

Chester County Art Association

West Chester

Highlighting the realities of lived experience through art challenges preconceptions with beauty, skill, and inspiration. Chester County Art Association brings together 17 artists in two shows, including a solo show by celebrated local artist Dane Tilghman. With vibrant and bold paintings, Tilghman “embraces an extravagant style and color palette to make Black life and culture from the early 20th Century the centerpiece of artistic admiration,” as his artist statement explains. At CCA, Tilghman’s works share space with artists Drema Benson, Richard Blake, Gerald Brown, Sheri Lawrence, Akita Woodford and other artists. Feb. 8-29. Gallery Talk: Feb. 22, 6:30 pm-8 pm.

Main Line Contemporary Voices

Colonna Contemporary

Wayne

This show features 11 local artists and demonstrates “the depth and variety of artistic talent existing in a 12-mile radius,” said Michele Colonna, Colonna Contemporary’s owner and curator. “The energy is refreshing to see as people from all walks of life turn to the arts as a serious career avenue.” The gallery shows a wide range of art, from traditional mediums to pixel-made digital art. “The overall body of work is as diverse as the tapestry of human stories that make up the scene with no specific common denominator,” said Colonna. Look for work from Judy Jarvis, Steven Bradshaw, AYGZ, Michael Bugler and others. Feb. 16-29, 2024. Opening Reception: Feb. 16, 6 pm -9 pm.

The Maine Event II

Gallery 222, Malvern

Artistic connections between the Brandywine Valley and the Maine coast span centuries. “Why Maine? Better to ask an artist,” said Andrea Strang, owner and curator of Gallery 222. “The beautiful vistas are like no other. It’s the juxtaposition of the rocky terrain against the tranquil waters.” Gallery 222 shows how current artists interpret those scenic views. Feel the chilly spray of a rocky coastline or wait in the sun for that perfect lobster roll in works by eight local artists: Elaine Lisle, Jacalyn Beam, Elise Phillips, Valerie Craig, Nancy Bea Miller, Eliza Auth, Alexandra Tyng, Fred Danziger and Philip Carroll. Feb. 22-March 9. Artist Reception: Feb. 24, 2 pm to 5 pm.

Faculty Art Show

Villanova University, Villanova

Studio art instructors put a lot of effort into sharing their talents with students, shaping the creators of the future. The Faculty Art Show at Villanova flips the script and showcases the painting, photography, iconography, music, and costume design of 10 instructors: Dr. Tina Waldeier Bizzarro, Christine Clay-Gorka, Jeff Dion, Nathan Durnin, Santiago Galeas, Michael Hollinger, Susan Kelly von Medicus, Janus Stefanowicz, John Welsh, and Michael Willse. Jennie Castillo, curator of the University Art Collection and its gallery director, said this show is “a testament to the extraordinary talent and diverse perspectives from my colleagues. I think it’s great for their students to see their artistic pursuits and what their instructors do when they aren’t teaching.” Through March 4 at The Connelly Center, Villanova University

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Want to read about other art venues in our region? Check out The Hook Experiment in Oxford and Saliim Projects in Newtown Square.