‘A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose’ Opens

On Sunday, August 25, from 5 to 8 PM six artists will come together at The Gallery in Water Mill for the opening reception of “A Rose is a Rose is a Rose.” The exhibit, which will run through September 22, will showcase works from Sydney Albertini, Rachel Garrard, Terra Goolsby, Nicole Nadeau, Talia Levitt, and Jo Shane. Kelcey Edwards of Iron Gate East and James Salomon of Salomon Contemporary have joined efforts to bring the show to life.

How did the two of you meet?

James Salomon: Kelcey and I met through a mutual friend out east, and I knew immediately that she was someone special. She’s a very talented writer, filmmaker, and curator. I believe in all her projects, which is why I am happy to sign on to this with her. “A Rose is a Rose” is mainly her concept, with me chipping in. I am the co-pilot. That being said, I have full faith in her flying skills and am excited to present this show with her.

What inspired the show?

Kelcey Edwards: We have been wanting to work together for quite some time. I first had the opportunity to collaborate with James when he asked me to write the catalog essay for a 10-person show he curated at the Berkshire Botanical Gardens in Stockbridge, MA. The show featured some incredible East End artists including Ned Smyth, Toni Ross, and Fitzhugh Karol. We had a great time and shared a certain kind of sensibility, and I’ve been looking for a chance to curate with him ever since.

Why the title “A Rose is a Rose?”

K.E.: The title is drawn from a poem written by Gertrude Stein in 1913. “A rose is a rose is a rose” is among her most famous quotations, meaning something along the lines of “things are what they are.” However, in the case of the works in this show, things are not quite what they are, which is why we framed it as a kind of reimagining of the familiar.

Why did you pick these specific artists?

K.E.: Because I love them and their work. And I knew that shown together, the works would have a kind of synergy. To me, there is beauty, mystery, and a sense of play in all of the works in the show.

Describe the artwork that will be shown.

K.E.: There is a broad range of works, sculpture — multimedia, bronze, ceramic, yarn — some small, some large. There are installations and there are paintings in canvas and wood. It’s just a spectacular show. Impossible to describe. You should come see it.

The Gallery @ Water Mill Square is located at 670 Montauk Highway in Water Mill. Visit www.irongateeast.com or www.salomoncontemporary.com to learn more.

nicole@indyeastend.com