Explore artists’ response to the pandemic in Barbara Able’s Reinvention exhibition at Archway Gallery

Reach, by Barbara Able, oil on canvas | Photo courtesy of Archway Gallery

Reflect on how COVID-19 has required and inspired both redirection and creativity at the exhibition of new works by Barbara Able, and her son Daniel Able, at Reinvention at Archway Gallery through Thursday, October 1, 2020.

Barbara Able’s new body of work is a series of paintings and collages that emphasize the resilience of our community in the face of unprecedented hardships. The works were created in response to the strife of COVID-19, which has been one of the most disruptive events in recent history. Many lives have been uprooted and likely will never return to normal. 

The exhibit can be virtually 24 hours a day, during limited weekend hours at the Gallery, and by appointment for groups of 10 or less.

About Barbara Able & Daniel Able

Barbara Able, a resident artist at Archway Gallery since 2013, has returned to figurative work after 10 years of working on abstract paintings and collages. She has a B.F.A. in studio art from the University of Texas and has done post-graduate studies at Art League Houston and privately with nationally known artists.

“The social distancing has created a need for the return of the figure in my artwork to make the human connection,” she said. “I found myself using the art not so much to push boundaries but to soothe and comfort me.”

In her fourth show at Archway Gallery, she is also introducing her son, Daniel Able, whose own series of work follows his emotional arc through the crisis.

 Daniel Able’s series of work attempts to follow the emotional arc that he went through during this crisis. His first piece is called Reduction and is a depiction of a dear friend who passed away.

In a time when acquiring paint and canvas has become more difficult, Daniel decided to create his works digitally. This exemplifies what can grow out of necessity and brings us to his next piece, Rachel, a digitally produced portrait of his girlfriend. This vibrant painting represents her willingness to adapt to  any situation and the confidence to overcome adversity.

Daniel Able attended Lamar High School and graduated from the University of  Colorado with a B.S. in Business. He currently lives in Denver and works in finance with an international company.

A Walk in the Park, by Barbara Able, oil on canvas | Photo courtesy of Archway Gallery

Virtual Artist Talk

Archway Gallery will present a virtual edition of its traditional opening reception and artist talk on ArchwayGallery.com and Archway’s Facebook page, premiering on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at 6:30pm. Click here to visit ArchwayGallery.com or for more information.

Appointment Viewing for Reinvention

To see the exhibition by appointment, contact the gallery in advance to arrange a private tour for 10 people or less. Email [email protected] for details.

Social Distancing & COVID-19

Businesses in Houston have opened under modified protocols, following guidelines administered by local health officials, the State of Texas and CDC. At this time, guidance from experts urges people to continue wearing face masks when in public spaces, practice social distancing of at least six feet, limit your touching of surfaces and frequently use hand sanitizer or soap and water to keep your hands clean.

Before heading out, take time to familiarize with your destination’s requirements or restrictions at this moment, and be sure to contact them ahead of time with any questions or concerns.

Reinvention Exhibition at Archway Gallery 

Self Portrait by Daniel Able, digital print 24×18 | Photo courtesy of Archway

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