Laura Hamje’s recent work entails architectural structures—buildings of course, but frequently bridges and construction sites. Her paintings have an abstract appeal. That is, when first looking at her work, it is this abstract quality that first captures the eye, then as a kind of backbeat, the subject matter kicks in. She thinks abstractly but paints descriptively. These factors are a difficult combination to keep in mind as one paints; Laura Hamje does it very well.
 

Anne Petty’s paintings have a compelling psychological presence brought about by posture and body language. There is anxiety and stress, sometimes overtly, other times, subtly presented. The paintings have an impressive expressive presence as well as rather extraordinary formal excellence. She knows how and when to abbreviate description of landscape and interior spaces. In the human figure she knows what is the essential detail and what needs to be broadly handled. Anne Petty’s meeting of form and expression makes for a formidable series of paintings indeed.