Discover the hidden gem in the Westborough Shopping Plaza, where the former Dress Barn location now features stunning oil paintings by Hopkinton's own Dustin Neece. This exhibit, curated by Ed Turner of the Art and Frame Emporium, highlights the extraordinary talent of a young artist who is already making waves in the art world. Read on to learn more about Neece's journey, his inspirations, and the unique initiative to bring art to empty storefronts.
The once-vacant Dress Barn in the Westborough Shopping Plaza on Lyman Street has been transformed into a vibrant art gallery. The windows now display six large-scale oil paintings by 28-year-old Dustin Neece, a Hopkinton native. Ed Turner, the owner of the Art and Frame Emporium, believes that Neece is on the path to becoming a renowned artist.
Neece's journey to recognition began in high school when his painting, "The Bowler," won the prestigious Scholastic Art Award and was exhibited at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. This early success set the stage for his future endeavors.
Some of Neece's works are also on display at the Art and Frame Emporium. The exhibit, initially scheduled to run through May 24, may be extended due to popular demand. A small reception was held on May 3 to celebrate the launch of this project.
Ed Turner is a man of action. "There are people who make things happen, who watch things happen, and who wonder what happened. I make things happen," he says. Turner has collaborated with the mall owners to utilize empty storefronts for displaying art and products, turning vacant spaces into cultural hubs.
Dustin Neece graduated from Hopkinton High School in 2002 and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) in 2006. He is a classically trained figurative artist, deeply committed to his craft. "During the past six years, I've poured every ounce of energy and attention into making my work as strong as I possibly can," Neece told Westborough Patch.
Neece's work is inspired by masters like Andrew Wyeth and Rembrandt. He focuses on landscapes and figures, using a muted, limited palette. "I paint as if I'm painting for the last time. If a section isn't good enough, I paint over it, sand it down, and paint it again," he explains. His meticulous process often involves cropping canvases to define the final layout of his compositions.
Turner describes Neece's process as an "attempt to transcend the physical piece of art," aiming to create an almost alchemical effect where the paint becomes something more.
At 16, Neece inherited oil paints from his late grandfather. Although he had dabbled in painting as a child, this inheritance marked the beginning of his serious artistic journey. An exhibit by Hopkinton-based artist Jaime Alfonso further inspired him, leading to a summer of study with Alfonso and continued painting throughout high school.
After high school, Neece studied graphic design at RISD while continuing to paint. His work caught the attention of art collectors from New York and Israel. Post-RISD, he honed his skills under the tutelage of renowned painters Odd Nerdrum in Norway and Israel Zohar in London.
Transforming empty storefronts into art galleries not only beautifies the area but also stimulates local economies. According to a study by Americans for the Arts, communities with a vibrant arts scene see a 20% increase in local business revenue (source: Americans for the Arts).
Art exhibits in public spaces foster community engagement and provide accessible cultural experiences. A report by the National Endowment for the Arts found that 70% of Americans believe that the arts unify communities regardless of age, race, and ethnicity (source: National Endowment for the Arts).
The transformation of the former Dress Barn into an art gallery featuring Dustin Neece's work is a testament to the power of local talent and community initiatives. As Neece continues to develop his craft, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a reminder of the cultural richness that can be found in unexpected places.
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