Sea Cliff Arts Council hosts abstract painting exhibit by local artist

Art has always been an important part of life for Sea Cliff resident Hannah Bierwiler; from growing up around paintings made by her grandfather, who she said has been a big inspiration, to becoming a certified art therapist. She now has an exhibit of her own paintings on display at the Sea Cliff Arts Council. This is her first exhibit.

Bierwiler said it took several conversations with people in her art studio suggesting she display her work before she agreed. 

“Eventually I caved in,” she said. “I said, ‘Okay, fine, I’ll do it’.”

Her exhibit, titled “Internal Landscapes,” opened on May 15 and explores emotion through the use of color and form. Roughly 100 people attended the opening, and Bierwiler sold several paintings. 

“I was so happy with the turnout,” she said. “It was sweeter and more magical than I could have ever thought of, and it was great. The community and all of the support that showed up was really beautiful.”

In college, Bierwiler studied biology. She said she was torn between studying science and art but that the two eventually came together when she got her art therapy certification. 

While Bierwiler is not currently working as an art therapist, she said that she uses that knowledge to inform her work, including the piece in this exhibit. 

“It’s about how my internal landscapes can be processed through color,” she said, “and, in an abstract way, what feelings can look like on a canvas.” 

Bierwiler described her typical art style as abstract, experimental and playful. With this exhibit, she said, her goal was not to send a specific message but to leave much to the interpretation of the viewer. She explained that while she paints, she considers her own intentions and then how a viewer might receive the work. 

“It’s supposed to be playful, it’s supposed to be happy and joyous,” Bierwiler said, “and that’s really my hope for my paintings, is to bring light and happy feelings.”

Mark Sobel, the arts council’s producer-at-large, described Bierwiler’s paintings as “compelling” and said her use of color is what makes her work unique. He added that the exhibit has been well-received by the community. 

“People are coming and knocking on our door at hours that we’re not even open,” Sobel said, “and I’m getting phone calls, ‘Can you come? Can I see the exhibit?’ which is great.”

Bierwiler’s work will be on display through the end of June.