Gate Street Gallery is pleased to present Go Figure, a solo exhibition by Ria Blaas. The exhibition gathers sculptures and oil paintings selected from Blaas’ mature body of work. Her commitment to the process of discovery allows the chosen materials to tell the story — a practice that forms the foundation for her haunting, ethereal, evocative figures. Blaas’ work can also be seen throughout the Upper Valley, including at the Path of Life Garden, the Tip Top Building, and the Main Street Museum. Go Figure presents her work in an intimate setting that is both inviting and playful.

Born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, sculptor Ria Blaas was classically trained in the European tradition. She received her training at the Academy of Art in Breda and the Royal Academy of Art in Amsterdam before moving to Vermont in the 1980s. She has exhibited throughout New England and teaches workshops, classes, and leads residencies. Blaas’ current work embraces exploration: she chisels, burns, and chainsaws wood to remove material and discover the form within. Just as wind and water can erode wood over time to a polished, stone-like surface, Blaas chooses how to expose the wood’s surface — creating scarred, polished, and multifaceted textures that engage the viewer. Some of her larger-than-life sculptures are placed within the landscape, engaging with and becoming part of the natural world; others are in dialogue with internal spaces.

SHOW DATES:

Opening reception: Friday, November 6, 5-7 pm, as part of First Fridays WRJ

Artist talk: Friday, December 4, 5-6 pm as part of First Fridays WRJ

Gallery open: Friday, January 1, 5-7 pm, as part of First Fridays WRJ

Gallery open by appointment - contact gallery manager Hans Silas Jovine at (603) 667 1576 or info@gatestreetgallery.com