Paintings of iconic and symbolic figures at Chelsea gallery

An enticing exhibition of paintings depicting both contemporary and religious iconic figures is currently on view in Chelsea. The show Secular Icons features work by Linda Smith where she uses the sky and water as the backdrop for her subjects that include people, animals, and plants with symbolic significance.

One of the pieces that stands out greatly is Force of Nature featuring a woman on the beach, opening her arms as she welcomes a flock of colorful birds gathering around her. She looks at the birds with amazement, as one dark-green colored bird with a long silky tail rests on her right arm. Another image called Evening depict a boy of about 10 years old, holding his nose as he’s floating up to the sky surrounded by dark red clouds, with the sun shining brightly behind. 

"Force of Nature" (2014) by Linda Smith

Similarly, Subliminal Sky also illustrates the sun shining behind dark red clouds and features a young man staring into the wide open space as a lizard sits on his shoulder. A free concert featuring performances by Honi Gordon, Wayne Smith, and Jason Smelter will complement the theme of the exhibit. The musicians will perform jazz and classical music at The Blue Mountain Gallery, Saturday, May 10th, from 2—3 p.m.

At The Blue Mountain Gallery, 530 W. 25th St., through May 17. There will be an opening reception at the gallery Apr. 26, from 3—6 p.m. The gallery is open Tues.—Sat. from 11 a.m.—6 p.m.