Nature Abstracted: Chiyomi T. Longo, Bob Nugent, and Younhee C. Paik

June 17 – November 5, 2023

Curated by Jeff Nathanson

Nature Abstracted: Chiyomi Taneike Longo, Bob Nugent, and Younhee Chung Paik features three Bay Area artists who make abstract art inspired by nature. These artists differ in style and technique, but they all share a deep love and respect for the environment and humanity’s relationship to the natural world.

Chiyomi Taneike Longo, who was born in Japan and received her MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute, has been a Santa Rosa, Sonoma County resident for over three decades. Of her work, critic Peter Frank wrote “…Longo’s art is grounded in the appreciation of nature that pervades all aspects of Japanese sensibility.”

Bob Nugent, who lives and works in Healdsburg, divides his time between Sonoma County and Brazil. Much of his work is informed by his time in the rain forest, his time spent with the indigenous people who inspire him, and his exploration of shamanism. The work also reflects his dismay over the tragic environmental impact of modern “progress.” Nugent received his MFA from UC Santa Barbara.

Younhee Chung Paik, a Korean born artist who divides her time between Oakland, New York, and Seoul, also received her MFA from the SF Art Institute. Her titles often describe her intimate relationship with nature: “Chorus of Trees,” “Ancient River,” “Tide and Dream.” Inspired by a forest of trees, a flowing creek, a loan boat on an ancient sea, Paik’s artwork explores nature, spirituality, history, and culture with an adventurous exploration of techniques and scale.

Exhibition Opening Day
Saturday, June 17, 2023
11 am–5 pm

Reception for the Artists
Saturday, June 17, 2023
3 pm–5 pm

Artist in Conversation: Younhee Paik and Mark Van Proyen
Saturday, August 5, 2023
1 pm–2 pm

Artist in Conversation: Bob Nugent and Jeff Nathanson
Thursday, October 12, 2023
7 pm–8 pm

Artist in Conversation: Chiyomi T. Longo and Satri Pencak
Thursday, October 12, 2023
7 pm–8 pm

Support for Nature Abstracted has been generously provided by Jack and Diane Stuppin, Community Foundation Sonoma County; Ron Casentini; Marc and Jeanie Kahn; Estelle Rogers and Hal Kwalwasser; Robin Marcus and David Salm; Erickson Fine Art Gallery; Ren Brown; Imagery Winery; Cheri and Barry Feiner; Kelly-Moore Paints.

Special thanks to the artists, Satri Pencak, Al Longo, Connie Tell, Nate Henry-Silva, the amazing MSC staff, and our dedicated volunteers.

To sponsor this and other exhibitions contact: development@museumsc.org 707.579.1500

Pictured:
Chiyomi T. Longo, Kaicho of Sumi #58, mixed media/sumi on canvas, 48″ x 60″
Bob Nugent, Desmatamento (Deforestation) II, oil and charcoal on linen, 60x80”
Younhee C. Paik, Across, 2012, mixed media on canvas, 42 x 84”

Click here to view the Press Release published on April 18, 2023