The Rosendale Cafe is hosting an exhibition titled “Moving Mountains,” featuring paintings by Anderson Foundation Board Vice Chairperson Susan Angles through Sunday, April 28.
Angles drew inspiration for her paintings of mountain scenes from the autism community: family members, caregiver and direct support professionals who advocated for individuals living on the autism spectrum, according to a news release announcing the show.
“Oftentimes, the challenges for individuals with autism and their caregivers seem insurmountable. But when we work together as a community, we can accomplish a great deal. We gain the strength and courage to move mountains,” Angeles said in the release
Angeles’ eldest son is a resident in one of Anderson Center’s group homes in Dutchess County, and his autism has had a huge effect on Angeles’ life and work as an artist, the release said.
Angeles uses a variety of materials and textures and colors that stimulate sensory play like a tactic that helps calm children with autism, the release said. Angeles channels her son’s desire for routine and predictability by using repetition to create rhthym and variation to give a sense of movement, the release added.
“My creative process begins with a general idea of a place or a feeling I want to express. I like to mix various types and viscosities of acrylic, and paint with different textures of fabric and paper,” Angeles said. “I experiment with different media and usually end up with my own, magical version of reality.”
Angeles has also exhibited her work in group shows sponsored by the League and at the ArtBar Gallery in Kingston. Angeles will donate 30 percent of her artwork sales to the Anderson Center for Autism.
The Rosendale Cafe is located at 434 Main St., Rosendale and is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. For more information, call (845) 658-9048 or visit rosendalecafe.com.