Malika Moine, a prolific artist from Marseille, France was recently commissioned to create images of Rockford for a 2018 calendar titled, “Paint the Town,” a fundraiser for the Rockford Beautiful initiative. The original paintings, that include 13 views of Rockford places and civic events, are now on exhibit in the Kortman Gallery, Downtown Rockfordthrough September 30th.
“It’s always fascinating to see life through the eyes of an artist,” says Doc Slafkosky, gallerist fro the Kortman Gallery. “It’s especially enthralling to see your hometown through fresh eyes of an artist from another part of the world. Malika has captured scenes of Rockford with her enchanting “French” whimsical style that make this such a fun and intriguing exhibition.”
Capturing life around her, has been the motivation for her art throughout her career. More than 30 other works by Malika featured in the exhibition present views of both landscapes and details of life in and around her native city of Marseille in the South of France.
“This is a great opportunity for art enthusiasts and local artists and to experience works that would require a trip across the ocean to see, yet still have a Rockford connection,” said Jerry Kortman, co-owner of the Kortman Gallery. “It has been enriching for our gallery and Rockford to participate in this unique cultural exchange.”
The “Paint the Town” calendar is available for purchase for $14.95 at selected locations throughout the city and at J.R. Kortman Center for Design.The paintings/drawings of Malika Moine will be on exhibit through September 30th upstairs in the Kortman Gallery. Store and Gallery, both located at 107 North Main Street in Downtown Rockford, are open Monday through Friday 11am to 6pm, and Saturday, 11am to 5pm. For more information call 815-968-0123
