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Smith House Galleries to Host Tri-Artist Exhibition

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/2 .. use-galleries-to-host-tri-artist-exhibition.html
  Published in House and Home on Saturday, March 28th 2026 at 19:17 GMT by Augusta Free Press
      Locale: UNITED STATES

MARTINEZ, GA - March 28th, 2026 - The Smith House Galleries is set to unveil a compelling new exhibition showcasing the diverse talents of three contemporary artists: Kathleen Mitchell Johnston, Michael Kazin, and Saleem Khaleel. The exhibition opens this Sunday, March 29th, 2026, and will run through April 28th, offering art enthusiasts a month-long opportunity to experience a fascinating blend of painting, sculpture, and photography.

The exhibition, carefully curated by the Smith House Galleries team, represents a commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists with unique voices and perspectives. This year's selection promises a particularly rich and thought-provoking experience for visitors.

Kathleen Mitchell Johnston: Evoking Nature and the Echoes of Memory

Johnston's work centers around the evocative power of nature and its intersection with personal memory. Her paintings aren't merely representations of landscapes; they are emotional landscapes, imbued with a sense of nostalgia and longing. She employs a layered technique, often incorporating washes and textures that suggest the passage of time and the fragility of recollection. Johnston's artistic journey has been deeply influenced by the rural landscapes of the American South, particularly the subtle shifts in light and color throughout the seasons. Observers will likely find her work resonating on a deeply personal level, prompting reflection on their own memories and connections to the natural world. Johnston has previously exhibited at the Greenville Arts Center and the Columbia Museum of Art, garnering critical acclaim for her sensitive and nuanced approach to painting. Her pieces often feature muted palettes and a dreamlike quality, creating an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.

Michael Kazin: Reclaiming the Past, Sculpting the Future

In stark contrast to Johnston's ethereal paintings, Michael Kazin presents a series of abstract sculptures forged from reclaimed materials. Kazin's commitment to sustainability is central to his artistic practice. He meticulously sources discarded metal, wood, and other objects, transforming them into dynamic and visually arresting forms. His process is one of deconstruction and reconstruction, giving new life to forgotten materials and challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of waste. Kazin describes his work as a commentary on consumer culture and the importance of environmental responsibility. He isn't simply building sculptures; he's building arguments about the potential for renewal and the beauty of imperfection. Kazin's background in industrial design informs his approach to sculpture, resulting in pieces that are both structurally sound and aesthetically compelling. He has exhibited widely throughout the Southeast, frequently participating in outdoor sculpture parks and public art installations.

Saleem Khaleel: Capturing the Human Story

Completing the trio is Saleem Khaleel, a photographer whose work focuses on the immediacy and intimacy of the human experience. Khaleel is known for his compelling portraits and candid street scenes, which offer a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people. His photographs are characterized by a raw honesty and a keen eye for detail. Khaleel eschews artificiality, preferring to capture his subjects in natural light and spontaneous moments. He believes that photography has the power to bridge cultural divides and foster empathy. His street photography series, "Faces of the City," has been particularly acclaimed for its authentic portrayal of urban life. Khaleel's work has been featured in several international photography magazines, and he has recently completed a residency at the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Artist Reception Details

The Smith House Galleries will host an artist reception on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This event will provide attendees with the opportunity to meet the artists, discuss their work, and enjoy light refreshments. The reception is free and open to the public.

Gallery Information

The Smith House Galleries is located at 518 E. Gaston Blvd. in Martinez, Georgia. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information, please call 706-841-6093. The Smith House Galleries is a cornerstone of the Martinez arts community, dedicated to fostering creativity and providing a platform for emerging and established artists. This exhibition promises to be a highlight of the spring season, offering a diverse and engaging artistic experience for all.