Angela Lapioli & Isaac Pelepko: An Intriguing Juxtaposition of Abstract and Realist Expressions.
Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery (LPF) is proud to announce an upcoming exhibition featuring the captivating works of two talented local artists, Angela Lapioli and Isaac Pelepko. Lapioli’s abstract paintings are a celebration of nature’s beauty, intertwining organic forms with a touch of representational imagery. Her pieces evoke a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world, inviting viewers to explore the depths of their own imagination. On the other hand, Pelepko’s work channels the timeless allure of neoclassical paintings, infused with a contemporary twist. Influenced by the dynamic energy of comic book art and enriched by the technical mastery of European masters, Pelepko’s work captivates audiences with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. To kick of this extraordinary showcase, LPF invites you to join us for an exclusive artist’s reception on First Friday, June 7, 2024 from 5pm to 8pm. The exhibition will remain on display until Saturday, July 27, 2024.
Angela Lapioli’s journey as an artist is a testament to the transformative power of passion and dediction. While her professional path initially led her into the realms of illustration, graphic design and art direction following her BFA in Graphic Design from Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia, it was her rekindled love for fine arts that truly ignited her creative spirit. Around seven years ago, Lapioli embarked on a new artistic adventure by delving into the world of oil and cold wax painting. This pivotal moment marked a profound shift in her artistic expression, as she rediscovered her true calling in the realm of fine arts. Since then, Lapioli has been wholeheartedly dedicated to crafting works that not only capture visual beauty but also embody the essence of the creative process itself.
Immersing herself in nature, Lapioli finds inspiration and profound connection, which resonates deeply throughout her abstract compositions. Her artwork pulsates with vibrant growth imagery, reflecting the intricate patterns and rhythms of the natural world, Each piece becomes a testament to Lapioli’s keen observations and her desire to share the profound beauty she discovers in her surroundings. As Lapioli eloquently expresses, “I hope with each piece to present to the viewer a closer connection with nature by illuminating my many observations.” Through her art, she invites viewers to journey alongside her, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. Lapioli’s artistic prowess has garnered recognition within the artistic community, earning her a membership in the Art Association of Harrisburg. Her talent has also been celebrated through consecutive selections of her work for the prestigious “Images 2021-2022” PA Festival of the Arts Juried Exhibitions in University Park.
Isaac Pelepko’s artistic journey is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences and influences, shaping his distinctive style and vision. With a foundation laid at the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design in Lancaster, where he earned his BFA, and further honed at the esteemed New York Academy of Art, where he obtained his MFA, Pelepko’s artistic trajectory was set on a path of exploration and mastery. His formative years in New York City, spanning a decade of living and studying, left an indelible mark on his artistic sensibilities. One pivotal moment came during his early days at art school when he encountered Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres’s masterpiece, “Princess de Broglie” at the Metropolitan Museum. This encounter served as a catalyst, igniting Pelepko’s passion for realist art and inspiring himt to delve deeper into the intricacies of human form and expression.
Following completion of his MFA, Pelepko embarked on an intensive period of study at the Art Students League alongside renowned realist painters Costa Vavagiakis and Dan Thompson. During this time, Pelepko refined his skills and embraced the nuances of realist painting, laying the groundwork for his future artistic endeavors. Pelepko’s preferred medium, graphite on paper, holds a special place in his artistic repertoire, allowing him to capture the subtle interplay of light and shadow with unparalleled precision. However, he also embraces the versatility of acrylic paint, often combining the two in mixed media projects, showcasing his innovative approach to artistic expression.
Throughout his career, Pelepko’s works have graced numerous galleries and exhibitions, both locally and internationally. Notable highlights include a solo exhibition at the Suzanne H. Arnold Gallery at Lebanon Valley College, participation in the prestigious Art of the State at the State Museum in Harrisburg, where he was honored with the first prize for painting in 2018, a solo show at the Gallery of Tribes in New York and inclusion in a group exhibition at the Galerie L’Oeil du Prince in Paris, France.
