#United States #Portsmouth #Thorpe Feidt #The Alchemy #Jazz Quintet

Experience a Retrospective of Passion and Art

This summer, The Gallery at Jimmy's in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is set to unveil a compelling retrospective titled The Alchemy of a Life featuring the works of acclaimed painter Thorpe Feidt (1940–2024). The exhibition, which opens on July 3, promises an immersive experience for art enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, allowing them to engage deeply with Feidt's artistic journey.

Opening Night Celebration

The opening night will feature a public reception starting at 6 PM. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere complemented by a live performance from The Alchemy 5, a jazz quintet consisting of talented musicians from The Orchestra on the Hill. This unique collaboration aims to intertwine music and visual art, reflecting Feidt's profound appreciation for jazz.

The Evolution of an Artist

Feidt's career, which spanned more than four decades, is marked by his groundbreaking series, The Ambiguities, named after Herman Melville's novel. In this collection, he created over 450 paintings that reflect his explorations of themes such as alchemy, jazz, and literature. Feidt, originally from Ipswich, MA, showcased an evolving narrative in his work, particularly poignant after his 2018 diagnosis of vascular dementia. His later works reveal a striking urgency of expression, characterized by bold abstract forms.

His widow, Pat Gray-Feidt, has shared insights on the emotional journey behind his later paintings. As his condition progressed, Thorpe shifted his creative approach by layering earlier pieces with black and white paint, employing abstraction to illustrate the evolving narrative of his condition. "Thorpe didn’t cease creating; in fact, he adapted his art as his reality changed," she remarked. This retrospective becomes a unique lens through which the audience can experience the ongoing dialogue between the artist's life and his work.

A Multisensory Experience

One of the defining features of this exhibition is the interactive element that will engage the audience on multiple levels. Each painting will be accompanied by original jazz compositions by The Alchemy 5 — visitors can scan QR codes displayed beside each artwork to access these musical interpretations. This immersive experience promises to create a deeper connection between the viewer and Feidt’s emotive use of color and form.

The curation by Michael Labrie, the creative force behind The Gallery at Jimmy's, aims not only to showcase Feidt's visual poetry but also highlight the synergy between arts and emotions. Labrie states, "Thorpe’s work resonates with visual ideologies that intermingle with the rhythm of jazz, echoing the lasting effects of his artistic legacy."

Special Orchestral Concert

On August 10, the artistic journey will culminate in a one-night-only orchestral performance at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club. This unique event will feature the reimagining of Feidt's artworks through music, orchestrated by The Orchestra on the Hill. Led by renowned Artistic Director Thomas Palance, the orchestra aims to amplify the connection between Feidt’s visual expressions and the responsive nature of jazz music. Palance expressed his intention to bring life to Feidt's masterpieces through evocative improvisational music: "I am eager to explore the rhythms that inspired his creations from the beginning."

Celebrating Shared Legacy

Additionally, the exhibition acknowledges the crucial role of The Umbrella Arts Center in supporting this event. Their contributions have helped maintain and elevate Feidt’s legacy, making his works accessible to more audiences. Gray-Feidt emphasizes the importance of sharing her husband’s work with the world: "Thorpe desired his creations to engage the community. The interest since his passing is both uplifting and validating."

The Alchemy of a Life exhibition promises a memorable journey into the emotive landscape of Feidt's artistry. With a blend of visual and auditory experiences set against the backdrop of a historic venue, The Gallery at Jimmy's beckons art lovers and seekers of cultural enrichment to partake in this celebration of creativity.

Exhibition Details

• - Opening Reception: July 3 at 6 PM
• - Orchestral Performance: August 10, Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club
• - Exhibition Duration: July 3 – August 22

To RSVP or purchase tickets, visit jimmysoncongress.com.

Contact:
Courtney Taylor
Director of Marketing
Labrie Group
Phone: (888) 603-5299
Email: courtney@labriegroup.com