Tuesday, February 18
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East End Collected 8

A Panorama of Talent at the Southampton Arts Center

Imagine if you are an artist and you receive a call out of the blue from one of the most respected artists and cultural directors in the Hamptons with a special invitation to be part of a prestigious exhibition. Such is the fate of the 27 local artists included in East End Collected 8, curated by acclaimed artist Paton Miller and Executive Director Christina M Strassfield of the Southampton Arts Center (SAC). The exhibition which will run through May 4 at SAC includes numerous programs and will expose this incredible range of talent, from emerging and established artists in their 20’s to 80’s to a sophisticated and appreciative audience which also has the opportunity to purchase the work.

Eidolon V
Brendan H. Johnston

This year’s featured artists include: William Albertini, John Battle, John Philip Capello, Linda Capello, Gary Chiappa, David Corgliano, Eva Faye, Robin Giannis, Carly Haffner, Robert Harms, Samuel Havens, Mary Jaffe, Brendan H. Johnston, Nishan Kazazian, Joyce Kubat, Stephen Laub, Setha Low, Sutton Lynch, Mica Marder, Richard Mothes, Isabella Rupp, Georgia Suter, Deirdre Swords, Aurelio Torres, Allan Wexler, Steven Zaluski, Amy Zerner, and Susan Zises.

Miller began the series ten years ago when the fate of the former Parrish Art Museum location on Jobs Lane was in question after its move to Water Mill. The idea of an arts center was floated and Miller was consulted on the artist’s point of view. He recalls, “I said, ‘If you are going to have an arts center you have to be loved. And in order to do that you should reflect the artists around here,’ and guess what,” he adds with a smile, “We have quite a few here on the East End.”

Reflections
Samuel Havens

Friends and colleagues for 35 years, Miller and Strassfield share a deep respect for one another. When Strassfield took over the SAC Executive Director position two years ago Miller asked her to assist with the installation of the 2023 show. “It was great to have her help,” he says, “And it was more fun.” Strassfield concurs, “We each brought different sensibilities and aesthetics to the forefront in curating that complement one another beautifully.” Part of the enjoyment was introducing each other to artists they weren’t familiar with. Think peanut butter in my chocolate sort of a happy discovery. “We have a wonderful mix,” says Strassfield of the work which includes painting, photography, drawing, sculpture, glass work and video, “It’s traditional and abstract but each artist has an amazing level of quality.” Miller also notes the heart and soul involved, “It’s a privilege to do these shows.” The success is undeniable with over 800 people coming to the opening last February.

Miller and Strassfield also thoughtfully put together the panels whose synergy would be a pleasure for both the panelists and visitors. And the Center’s Guest Service Ambassadors who include Miller’s wife Nancy who is also an artist add a knowledgeable resource for any visitor.

Tempest
Robin Giannis

The two found artists through different methods: word of mouth, studio visits, art openings, and even Instagram. Miller comments, “There is a lot of serendipity. It is important for artists to be part of a community. I have lived in places before where if you are an artist, you are kind of a kook. Here we are really fortunate to come together.” Miller began his art journey in Hawaii where he actually taught at a leprosy colony. “I never bought into the dolphins jumping over rainbows thing,” he explains and after moving to the Hamptons in 1974 worked in the studio of Fairfield Porter (the Porters became his East Coast family) and met Larry Rivers, Wilem de Kooning and Roy Lichtenstein. Miller continues that generosity of spirit today in the creative community and although he jokes there can be some “skullduggery” both he and Strassfield admire the East End passion and support of the arts and the valuable home SAC has been for its members and visitors. What better way to come in out of the cold to the warmth of this communal creative experience.

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