Making art accessible to everyone regardless of their budget is something that RJD Gallery in Romeo, Michigan, has been pursuing. As an artist’s value rises in the marketplace, however, some collectors can be priced out of affording their paintings. They then turn to prints or small-scale artwork to be able to hang works by their favorite artists on their walls. Recently, RJD Gallery has announced a new venture with two of its top artists, Andrea Kowch and Kris Lewis, to make some of their most recognized paintings available to a larger audience.Kris Lewis, Low Tide, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 36 x 24"

“For years, admirers have asked both Andrea Kowch and Kris Lewis to offer reproductions of some of their most iconic works at a more attainable price point. In response to this growing demand and the continued success of these acclaimed artists, RJD Gallery will debut an open edition of numbered prints, of only 500 each, of a few selected works from each artist,” says gallery principal Richard Demato. “These quality prints are ideal for both the beginner and seasoned collector and make perfect gifts, especially with the holiday season fast approaching.”

From Kowch, collectors will find open edition prints of her paintings Sojourn, Light Keepers, Pecking Order and In the Distance, which have sold out or are close to sold out in hand-signed, numbered and framed limited-edition versions. Collectors wanting the chance to own these popular works is what prompted Kowch and the gallery to select these specific works to reproduce in larger quantities. The artist is known for her beautiful narratives that capture moments of rural life.Kris Lewis, Sprung, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 40 x 30"

Andrea Kowch, Sojourn, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 24 x 20"

Explaining her influence, Kowch says, “Hailing from the Midwest, and living and working here today, I only continue to become more aware and stimulated by the history, landscape and ways of life that shape the region. There are several artists whom I admire and feel are influential in various ways as well. Among them are the Wyeths, Northern Renaissance/Flemish painters such as Pieter Bruegel and Rogier Van der Weyden, Italian masters Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli and Raphael, and the work of the American regionalists—Grant Wood, Thomas Hart Benton and John Steuart Curry, to name a few—as well as the WPA art that was produced in America during the 1930s and 1940s, depicting the industriousness and strength of the human spirit. Thus, the work and subject matter of these artists particularly influence and resonate with me. There is an inexplicable enchantment I feel when gazing upon their works. The way their technique, color, composition, tone, subject matter, mood and symbolism (to name a few) all work together so seamlessly to create enthralling stories that capture the viewer is my definition of great art. They move me emotionally and speak to my soul on a very profound level.”Andrea Kowch, Light Keepers, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 20 x 16"

This is seen in her four pieces, such as In The Distance, which over the years has become Kowch’s most popular painting, and Pecking Order, featuring a woman standing in front of a wall with hens and eggs. The latter work, she says, “is a window into the intricate evolution of the human condition and natural world, and the inner chaos felt upon adjusted to a new life in a new town.”Andrea Kowch, Pecking Order, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 20 x 16"

Lewis’ paintings available will be Low Tide, Sprung, Icelander and Turn Starboard. Working with Demato, the two selected these works of art to be turned into prints because they best represent Lewis’ art stylistically through the stories that are conveyed. The artwork has an eye toward the sea, where collectors can connect with otherworldly images and ideas. Lewis’ distinctive style is also front and center, with exaggerated facial features and hidden symbols strewn throughout the artwork.Andrea Kowch, In The Distance, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 20 x 20"

Discussing his art, Lewis shares, “I have always  believed nothing quite tells a story like the human face. Even if I’m limiting myself in terms of subject matter, the most subtle change of a facial expression can dramatically affect the mood or tone of the piece. I find when you set out to capture a positive or negative feeling, the emotive human figure provides endless opportunities to direct the narrative and tell a powerful story.”Kris Lewis, Icelander, open edition numbered print on archival paper, ed. of 500, 30 x 24"

Both Kowch and Lewis look forward to their artwork being available to collectors of all levels or available to clients who may not have had the chance to purchase the works. Lewis explains, “I simply want my art to be more accessible to those collectors that enjoy what I’m doing creatively and have expressed interest in owning my work without price being a prohibitive factor. I’m honored to work with RJD gallery in the production of these quality prints.” Kowch adds, “I have always, and always will, appreciate each and every person who has shown support for my passion, and as a result, I listen to public feedback and wanted to share my art and its successes with a larger audience that has not been able to acquire the artwork they had sought.”

The first open edition of numbered prints are all priced at $295, including shipping in the continental United States, and are available to order through the gallery website. —

RJD Gallery
227 N. Main Street • Romeo, MI 48065
(586) 281-3613 • www.rjdgallery.com

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