FRANK ARCURI
	STATEMENT When as in the recent past, the images of the world around us are a debilitating assault on our senses, we often find solace in those things which are beautiful…a flower, a sky, a smile. The mystery of beauty can bring joy and revive our sense of well being. The arts, whether theatre, music or painting have long stood as a testament to man's need to nourish the spirit of all humankind. It is perhaps in difficult times that we hunger most to be inspired and elevated by the beauty around us, as well as that within us. This exhibition of recent works by Frank Arcuri is most serendipitous, for it is both a feast for the eyes and nourishment for the soul. These paintings are works of beauty. A beauty that transcends life's paradigms, for by their very nature they will endure. The goal of a great still life painter is to capture what by definition is fleeting. The burst of color in a ripe cherry, the delicacy of a peony petal, the glisten of a gold thread in heavy brocade; these are the numinous elements a work of art must capture if it is to inspire and awe the viewer. Frank Arcuri has not only the technical virtuosity necessary for the task, but more importantly, discernment for the ethereal qualities that are at the essence of beauty. "Petals and Plumage" pays homage to nature's flamboyance and flair for the exotic. The dazzling bouquet of flowers bursts forth as if displaying the earth's plumage and the peacock in respect keeps its finery unfurled. Each element is exquisite in detail and true to its nature. The soul of the painting lies in the fragility of the feather, the silky surface of each petal and the iridescent shimmer of the seashell. The work entitled "Vanitas: A Meditation on Life" has its origins in the 17th Century Dutch tradition. Though the human skull is the ultimate symbol of the transient nature of our existence, it is knowledge and wealth, as represented by the open book and jewelry, which will endure through time. The most poignant element in this painting is the placement of the skull, for though each individual hungers for worldly acquisitions, these riches are never consumed, but survive to be passed on. As a musician himself, perhaps closest to the artist's heart are his musical compositions. "Song for Ariel" is as lyrical as a sonata. Rounded notes echo off the lutes and the sweet sound of the violin lingers in the statue's smile. Though we have not heard a single chord, we know it is a love song, melodic and full of hope. These works of art, these reflections of beauty are reminders of nature and man's greater accomplishments. It is a challenging time, for an artist of Frank Arcuri's caliber and aesthetic to create a body of work that transcends the disturbing events around us. Luckily, it is an achievement in which we can and should take comfort. --Frann Bradford
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