Lake Metroparks’ Spring Art Show Focuses on Earth, Air, Fire and Water

Belief in the monumental power of earth, air, fire and water reaches back to ancient Greece, a time during which it was believed all matter in existence came from those four elements. That influence echoes today in popular culture, ranging from the four tribes in the animated series  “Avatar: The Last Airbender” to the wondrous world created in the 2023 Pixar film “Elemental.”

Those elements also serve as the frame of inspiration for the works on display during this year’s spring art show at Lake Metroparks’ Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland. “Earth, Air, Fire & Water: Art & the Four Elements” opens March 15 and runs through May 11. Featuring works from 10 artists, the show spans quilts, paintings, metalworks, collages, digital illustration and jewelry. All the works capture the four elements in some way, from Kate Pennington’s representation of rocky waters depicted in acrylic and oil paints or Martina Matthews’ collage depicting two snails.

Other artists featured in the exhibition include Christine Allchin, Judy Hoppert, Rosalind C. Hughes, Margaret Li, Manitu Okahas, Reese Oress, Angela Schall and Christine Siarka. The artists will be at the show’s March 15 opening reception from noon to 4 p.m. and will be available to talk with visitors about their pieces. There is no cost to attend, and refreshments will be provided. Plus, if you see something you like, the works on display are available for purchase.

Visit lakemetroparks.com/springartsshow for more information about “Earth, Air, Fire & Water: Art & the Four Elements.”

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