Currently on view at William Baczek Fine Arts is a new collection of watercolor works by Massachusetts artist Scott Prior. His realistic depictions explore moments and scenes of familiarity to the artist, but his pieces continue in popularity because they also spark nostalgic moments for his viewers. Inspired by some of the masters like John Singer Sargent and Winslow Homer, one can see how they've influenced the artist. However, Prior has achieved his own distinct style that leaves a lasting impression.
Community Garden, Winter, watercolor and gouache on paper, 8¾ x 15¾"
“The artist can capture and represent objects, scenes and occasions that everyone can recognize and relate to,” says gallery owner William Baczek. “A frequent comment by viewers is ‘I have been there,’ ‘I’ve seen that’ or ‘I know where that is.’ Even though Scott Prior is recognized as a master realist painter—and his paintings are realistic—they are often not literal. Elements from different photographs that the artist has taken are regrouped into a single image, then created in a painting that is imminently believable, but not factual.”
Bonfire, Foggy Beach, watercolor and gouache on paper, 10¼ x 10¼"
These familiar scenes for Prior include those that are close to home, the New England landscape. “These are places I know and love,” says the artist. “The garden, the beach or a sunrise.” Another important element to his work is the stunning effects of light, which has carried over to his watercolors from his past work in oil. “It’s a new way of working,” he explains. “I had a bit of a breakthrough and realized that if I could incorporate gouache and colored pencil, I can go back and do some refinements. I work with a looseness with watercolor and tighten things up with colored pencil.”
Floating Ball in Winter, watercolor and gouache on paper, 18 x 13"When it comes to lighting, Prior is attracted, like so many others, to the “incredible light shows of a sunrise or sunset,” he says. “From a philosophical standpoint, [these lighting conditions] last for only a few minutes. Something is very poignant about that. All of light is transitory and exists a lot in our memories, but they happen. The sun will rise in a different place every day and lights up different areas, and then a week later, it will move. I find that fascinating.”
Meadow, (After Tarkovsky), watercolor and gouache on paper, 7½ x 7¼"This is seen in his piece Community Garden, Winter, depicting a snowy view of the community garden near Prior’s home. While the painting may appear dreary at first, yellows and pinks light up the clouded background, creating a magical effect that pulls the viewer in. Prior doesn’t always rely on natural light to achieve his effects, as seen in the painting Bonfire, Foggy Beach, taken from Prior’s trip to Cape Cod. The piece depicts a bit of light in the clouds that hang over head, but the main attraction is the bonfire featured in the center of the beach party. People are gathered around the fire, and a warm, golden light emanates, also drawing on the familiarity of simple comforts we’ve all experienced.
Prior and the gallery encourage visitors to experience these special moments and to breathe in a bit of relief in the familiar. A preview of the exhibition can be seen on the gallery website, along with additional information and show details. —
William Baczek Fine Arts
36 Main Street, Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 587-9880 •
www.wbfinearts.com
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