Carol Carpenter’s vivid artwork is on display through June 30 in the Weise Gallery.
Art and science are often thought of as separate fields, but the “Transcending Reality” exhibit at the Health Sciences and Human Services Library’s (HSHSL) Weise Gallery at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) proves that they can beautifully merge.
“Transcending Reality” is the first solo exhibit of renowned artist Carol Carpenter and is a collaboration between the Medical Alumni Association and the UMB Council for the Arts & Culture.
Carpenter's artwork is known for its fusion of vivid colors and experimental techniques that create ethereal art inspired by nature. Her artistic style is identified by her use of vibrant acrylic paints and fluidlike forms. Her art is a celebration of life and nature and aims to inspire viewers to reconnect with the natural world in a meaningful way. The “Transcending Reality” exhibit is an immersive experience showcasing traditional art forms and organic, natural forms.
“ ‘Transcending Reality’ captures the essence of contemporary art. For me, creating works of art is a compelling life force,” Carpenter said. “It encompasses passion, spontaneity, experimentation, and self-discovery. My abstract art speaks to the fluidity and passion for color and could be seen as a form of chromotherapy for the 21st century.”
During the opening reception for the exhibit, Alexa Mayo, MLS, AHIP, interim associate vice provost and interim dean, HSHSL, called Carpenter “an intuitive painter who uses a saturated palette to create vivid works of organic art. She is inspired by the beauty in nature, she uses color to transcend the balance between reality and imagination. That’s where we get the names of the exhibit, ‘Transcending Reality.’ ”
Some of the pieces on display include “Heartfelt” (2023), acrylic on canvas, 50”x50”; “Rose Garden” (2022), ink and resin on canvas, 38”x38”; and “Metamorphic” (2022), acrylic and resin on canvas, 38”x26”.
“The HSHSL and our campus partners are pleased to be able to host abstract expressionist artist Carol Carpenter’s first solo exhibition. It’s one of the most beautiful exhibits we’ve had in the Weise Gallery,” Mayo said recently.
She added that Carpenter will be donating a piece of her art to the HSHSL’s permanent collection.
“Very generously, Carol will also be donating a portion of all sales to the library and to the Dr. William and Carol Carpenter Endowed Professor of Psychiatry for Schizophrenia Research [at the University of Maryland School of Medicine],” Mayo said.
The exhibit will be on display until June 30, with selected works for sale. The exhibit is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Visitors can access the exhibit through the 601 W. Lombard St. entrance. Admission is free, and there are no restrictions on age or accessibility.
Carpenter’s work will next be exhibited overseas at the Tokyo International Art Fair in Minato City, Roppongi, Japan, at the end of June and at the London Art Biennale in England in July.
Learn more about the artist at carpenterfineart.com.