“All works in the exhibit deserve a good look, but some seem to lure the eye – Joan Colbert’s linoleum block prints which bring out her interest in a kind of esoteric iconography (her “Monk[s]hood” and “The Night Wolf” in particular).” Roger Durbin, KnightArts

Two more reviews of Upstairs Downstairs are in. Both are authored by Roger Durbin, writing for the KnightArts blog and the West Side Leader. In Upstairs Downstairs at Summit Artspace, he covers the  exhibit for the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation; Akron, Ohio, one of several KnightArts communities, receives generous arts funding from the foundation and enjoys coverage of arts and culture on their blog.

Writing in Summit Artspace exhibiting gallery’s artists for the West Side Leader, Mr. Durbin provides a bit of background of Summit Artspace before focusing on Upstairs Downstairs: “It’s interesting to note that in Upstairs, Downstairs, the resident artists represent such a wide range of the visual arts. The current exhibit shows them off at their best, while viewers can venture to the third floor and wander through their studio spaces to see more of their art.” 

His mention of my relief prints was particularly gratifying: “In the adjoining room are three smaller linoleum block print works by Colbert. Done in black and white, the works call for consideration about the artist’s knowledge of esoteric ideas and concepts. Visit her studio on the third floor and see continuations of her subjects and technique. Her works are thoughtful and superbly rendered.” Many have followed his advice by stopping into the studio for a visit and to view more artwork.

“I highly recommend you see this show – all of it – live and in person. You’ll thank me.” Dottie Shinn, Akron Beacon Journal

image: Insomnia block print (detail)

Sunday morning’s coffee tasted like a gourmet brew when paired with the hot-off-the-press review of Upstairs Downstairs – Works of Art from the Penthouse in the Akron Beacon Journal article, Work of eight artists showcased. In considering this exhibit of work from the Summit Artspace studio artists Dottie Shinn, art and architecture critic, wrote, “It’s also the first time the resident artists have shown together. They should do it more often, for they have created a strong and delightful show.”

Writing about my prints from the ongoing series, As Potent as a Charm, Ms. Shinn stated: “Also highly desirable, being wonderfully conceived and executed, are Colbert’s linoleum block prints . . . Her mischievous take on indiscreet monks, wayward wolves and dallying maidens makes for a dark-humored tripartite tryst . . .” I think I’m just as pleased with her descriptive phrasing as I am with the positive comments!