“Names of God: Transformative Power of Celtic-Inspired Art” is the title of a solo exhibition of oil paintings from internationally known visionary artist Cynthia Matyi, opening at Christ Church Cathedral and First Presbyterian Church, Friday, February 17, in conjunction with Gallery Hop.
The show will include over 50 oil paintings. Many of these are large, colorful, intricate creations which draw from the ancient tradition of Celtic illuminations. The artist uses these complex compositions in a way that reflects the questions, concerns and crises of contemporary life. Symbolism and repetition of symbolic shapes form a vocabulary which is essential to this Celtic style. With Cynthia Matyi’s work, ancient motifs, and many newly created ones, take on special relevance for us today.
Cynthia Matyi is the major organizer of the touring exhibition, “American Celtic” (2000-2011) and her work has appeared in shows throughout the US, Canada and Europe. She has illustrated CD covers, posters and websites and gives workshops on Celtic art to students of all ages. She is the author, illustrator and publisher of the children's book, "Little Town of Spirals" (2008) and has performed with the Irish traditional music ensemble, Silver Arm for over 20 years.
A graduate of Mt. St. Joseph College, she also spent over twenty five years in health care as a vascular technologist and hospital manager and was one of the founders of the Society of Vascular Ultrasound. In 2008 she started the Little Town Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation to provide support for children’s missions in Moldova. She is currently collaborating on a Celtic Year Calendar for 2012 with Irish author Dolores Whelan.
Exhibit Preview: Brown bag lunch with the artist Thursday, February 16, at noon, in the assembly room at First Presbyterian Church, 174 Market Street. Free parking across the street.
Other programs at the Gallery Hop opening include the McTaggert Irish Dancers and the Art Mize Family Ensemble.