Jo’s "Flowers and the Flame" collection was truly breathtaking! Drawing inspiration from her wedding and the natural beauty surrounding her love story, the collection exudes an air of romanticism that captivates and transports you to a place of serenity and enchantment. Each piece tells a story of love, passion, and tranquility, merging the delicate beauty of flowers with the intensity of the flame, creating an ethereal, unforgettable experience.

“This show began with a commitment to experimentation during in a 12-week Advanced Practice workshop led by Pete Hocking, (also a bblg gallery artist). I gave myself permission to follow my heart’s desires - to paint what I wanted, how I wanted, when I wanted, with no regard to where the paintings might land. Gratefully, they landed with Susan Buroker at bblg gallery in Smithtown.

My paintings are always about moments of beauty, nature, and devotion. The subjects of this show came from Fall 2023, both from life and from enlarged photos which lined the studio in a glorious, colorful mess. 

The structures may appear random, but they are not. The compositions were based on either the golden ratio, proportions borrowed from the Masters, or frequently an informal subdivision process created by Andrew Loomis.

The brush marks are energetic and intuitive. I wanted to create movement around the surface like a constellation in the sky. The last mark was always intentional. It is as luscious and free as can be, often not accurate, but always symbolic.

Many of the paintings are about Attention or Pause. I try to combine balance, beauty, and inner spark. A theme kept appearing - all things are unique AND together. These paintings became conscious metaphors for life and love, beauty and spiritual values.” - Jo Harrison