Dans Papers - June 1, 2007 - Art And Habitat For Humanity

Mother Teresa said, "Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do, but how much love we put in that action." This statement can be applied to the individuals involved with Habitat For Humanity. Habitat For Humanity International is a nonprofit organization that seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world, in the creation of decent shelter through conscience and action.

In hope to support and bring about awareness regarding both Habitat For Humanity of Peconic and Suffolk, deCordova Studio & Gallery presents a charitable exhibition, "Habitats," from May 26 through June 24, featuring diverse works of sixteen artists. deCordova Studio & Gallery goes beyond the scope of celebrating works of art and focuses to promote causes on the East End. Established by Hector and Joyce deCordova in August 2006, the gallery presents artists of quality. Additionally, the husband and wife team believe it's crucial to have a strong sense of community involvement.

Joyce deCordova commends Habitat For Humanity on the East End as the organizations not only construct homes for those in need, but continue to provide support and counseling--as an ongoing commitment. Fortunate to have an outpouring of artists, "Habitats" exhibition provides a diverse showing of works including oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, and digital photography. deCordova explains, "There is a broad range of subject matter. Being that people have diverse taste, there's something for everyone." Expect to see landscapes, florals, portraits, and scenes of the East End, along with works that evoke emotion. A curatorial "theme" was eliminated for this exhibition, as the artists were able to create works of their choosing.

Unable to pinpoint a specific exhibition highlight, deCordova expresses sincere respect for the exhibiting artists and their works of passion. "We have a lot here, it's all so wonderful. One piece that makes me happy is a painting by Josef Head. It looks like a Botero--it's of a bride, heavy and distorted, and entitled, I'm Getting A Little Too Old For This Sort of Thing." deCordova also references the beauty of Helen Gioquinto's watercolors and Tom Steele's emotional photography.

As for the proceeds of the benefit, 40% of the sale goes to the artist, 30% to the gallery, and 30% to Habitat For Humanity. The artists thoughtfully priced the artwork, ranging from $200 - $1,200 for the cause. With various payment options, MasterCard and Visa are accepted along with cash and check. Equally, donations for Habitat For Humanity are greatly appreciated.

deCordova remarks, "What are we here for if we can't give back? My life would be empty." We should all take this idea to heart and come out to support the "Habitats" exhibition. Let's open our hearts, minds, and wallets to help others while enjoying the powerful impact of art.

deCordova Studio & Gallery is open to the public sans entrance fee Friday, 3-7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 - 6 p.m. It's located at 538 Main Street in Greenport on the beautiful North Fork. For additional information, please call the gallery at 631-477-0620.