ART + WINE + CHEESE: Welcome Back to Nepenthe MARSHA STAIGER & KATE CALLERY 

Marsha Staiger is an artist and teacher who lives, works and creates in Alexandria, VA. Marsha is an acrylic painter, who has been working from her studio at The Torpedo Factory for over 21 years. After painting for many years, Marsha says, “I love to paint.  I love color. My process is a meditation and a struggle.”  

An art graduate from the University of Louisville, Marsha is a long-standing teacher at The Art League School, having taught there for more than two decades.  Her work has been exhibited at galleries all over the USA.

Marsha shares, “As a painter I am aware of the size of me, and I like to use marks or formats that relate to my frame. The tools (brush, graphite etc.) that I make “art” with are kind of “snap on” equipment for the main frame—my body—that has the energy and strength and awareness to make cognitive decisions that create by selection and elimination.” 

We have learned so much listening to Marsha describe her process and her approach to life as an artist and a painter.  Marsha is fascinating and humble and supremely talented as a colorist—she understands how a balanced artwork is created and why it resonates with so many visitors.  Welcome back to Nepenthe Marsha and Marsha’s Fan Club!

Marsha has teamed up with the lovely local artist Kate Callery and it is a treat to present both of these artists and collections of their paintings.

Kate believes that the  geographical area where an artist resides can have masterful influence on the artwork. Just as, over time, every town leaves its effect on locals whatever their walk of life.

Most of Kate’s adulthood she has lived in three American cities: San Diego CA,  Miami FL and Alexandria VA. While living, working and playing in each of these locations the areas themselves have had a strong influence on her work.  The jewel tones of La Jolla, the jewel-like colors of South Miami, and the graceful lines, shapes and colors of Alexandria’s flowers are all like gems to Kate! 

Looking back at the artwork she has created over the years, it is quite clearly an integration of the colors, shapes and lines influenced by these three American cities.

We are grateful that Marsha and Kate are here in Alexandria and spending an evening with us at Nepenthe Gallery!