ABQ Times

A new exhibition titled "Our Presence" is set to open at the South Broadway Cultural Center on January 9. The showcase features paintings and sculptures by four artists, each offering their unique perspective within the realm of art fundamentals. The exhibition emphasizes a connection to nature and the human form as foundational elements for artistic expression.

The opening reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., with both the reception and exhibition being free and accessible to the public. "Our Presence" will remain on display until March 14.

The featured artists include Timothy Hooten, Leo Neufeld, Dan Paulos, and Aaron Richardson.

Timothy Hooten, an Albuquerque native, has an extensive background in sculpture and jewelry making from the University of New Mexico. His diverse expertise includes wood carving, metal fabrication, blacksmithing, and bronze casting. Hooten's work is part of various public and private collections both in the U.S. and internationally. He is recognized as an Elected Member of The National Sculpture Society and was awarded the Bronze Medal/John Cavanaugh Memorial Prize at their 88th Annual Awards Exhibition.

Leo Neufeld specializes in landscape and portrait painting with a contemporary realist approach. With over three decades of experience teaching painting and drawing, Neufeld holds a Bachelor of Science in Painting and Drawing from the University of Wisconsin. He further developed his skills at prestigious institutions such as the American Academy of Art in Chicago and the Art Students League of New York.

Dan Paulos has had a career spanning six decades during which he primarily collaborated with women due to their distinct contributions compared to men he knew. His silhouette teacher was Sister Mary Jean Dorcy, with whom he co-authored a book before working on two other books with Mother Teresa and Sister Wendy Beckett. Paulos is currently focused on re-producing recordings by Sister Miriam Therese Winter performed by her group, Medical Mission Sisters.

Aaron Richardson was born in San Antonio in 1978 but has been involved with art since childhood. As a modern realist/expressionist painter using oil paints and charcoals, Richardson began creating commissioned charcoal portraits in 2000 before transitioning to oils in 2011. His work includes solo exhibitions in Albuquerque and San Antonio as well as contributions to film animation and TV series props.