Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery Announces the Arrival of “Emma,”

Ash Almonte’s New Body of Work on Exhibit Feb 2-27, 2016

AUSTIN, Texas – Ash Almonte’s art seems to spill, twist and splatter with an uncommon sensibility that she describes as “raw” and “real,” two words that serve as a splendid introduction to both her emotional intelligence and her predilection for unleashing her feelings on canvas in the form of graphite and enamel, oil and acrylic paint. Thus, it’s hardly surprising that Almonte’s upcoming exhibition is hotly anticipated by Austin residents as well as a burgeoning group of national collectors.

Comprising of approximately 20 new works, Almonte’s mixed media show, on view February 2 – 27, is dubbed “Emma” and pays homage to the recent birth of her daughter. The newest works emerging from Almonte’s studio are dense with vibrant color and visual luxuriance, and the artist’s signature boldness is in evidence. Thus, plenty of her work will please die-hard fans; however, the experience of motherhood fueled her artistic trajectory and viewers will discover that her more recent pieces flare with increasingly abstract leanings and demonstrate an energetic new aspect of her formidable talent. In fact, those who have followed Almonte’s career know that she presents a strident world of spectacle that combines emotional resonance with a sense of purpose. Fond of quoting the former infant terrible of the art world, Jean Michael Basquiat, Almonte’s mantra is:  “I don’t think about art while I’m working. I try to think about life.” And, in this case, “Emma” is certainly about life, vitality and new horizons.

Almonte, among dozens of other things, is also finely attuned to the difficulties felt by foster children and manages to merge her consummate artistic flair with compassionate work in the form of her altruistic passion, “Hopefully Sow.” The latter is an organization she helped found to aid children during their transition into foster care, and proceeds from her work help ensure that foster children enjoy art classes, field trips and a welcome gift when they arrive at their new home.

Add to this the seismic-sized talent that enables Almonte to produce fiery canvases exploring visual imagery with uncommon nuance and power and you have the most rare of hybrids — virtuosic artistic gifts and consummate generosity. Almonte has been making art since she graduated from McMurry University in Abilene, Texas and her work is featured in an impressive array of private and corporate collections throughout the Southwest.

Artist’s Reception: Ash Almonte will be present at Russell Collection Fine Art on Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 6 – 8 p.m. The event is open to the public and an RSVP is requested. 512-478-4440.

Gallery hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Where: Russell Collection Fine Art, 1137 West 6th St., Austin, Texas 78703-5338

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