The snow cleared out just in time for the opening of new exhibits at the Schack Art Center on January 16th, 2020.  Marita Dingus, an artist of mixed media and Hoa Hong, a figurative painter, have their work displayed in the main gallery of Everett’s local art museum. 

When entering the door, you are greeted with a tall shapeshifted figure created by Marita and a display case of her fabric neckpieces and pouches. Just a step to the right is a painting of Hoa’s and your journey between these two artists begins. 

Sculptures of large and small fill the open space of the gallery, their innocent child-like faces stare out in all directions. The baby face painted on all the figures is a real signature move of Marita’s and they offer a very comforting feeling. Her art is made of all kinds of refuse that she has collected and that many of her friends have offered up to her. 

Part of the fun I personally had while exploring the exhibit was trying to name what materials were used within any particular figure. From large to small Marita Dingus has created it all. I’d have to state that my favorite statue is aptly named Cats. 

When meeting the creator of these child-like sculptures that show what all we simply throw away, I asked her to stand next to her favorite piece; she chose Little Big Feet and stood proudly next to the design. 

Hoa Hong’s work is found all around the walls of the Exhibit; showcasing many influential musical icons such as Mos Def, ASAP Rocky and Rihanna to name a few. Hoa’s colors combined with carefully placed brushstrokes pop off the canvas to give each face a striking expression and uncanny resemblance. 

Among the paintings you will also view three large pieces of the painter herself; these were my favorite of the artist’s work. Hoa paints in a moment trapped in time that will cause the viewer to ponder, as you can see her fingertips pressed against an unseen container or another canvas she is painted laying sideways upon a red and white target with darts protruding from her body and stuck around her. 

One spot among the exhibition room between a partition and a wall, you can see the two artists’ work interact with each other, as Hoa has three profiles hung on the west wall and Marita has three sculptures made with mirrors on the east wall, each named Reflecting I, II and III. 

I recommend this showcase to all ages for its powerful look at what can be done with everyday items normally discarded and also for a sharp image of legends from the hip hop genre.

The exhibit is free and open to the public through February 22nd.  

Schack Art Center
2921 Hoyt Ave
Everett, WA 98201

Siobhain Melcer has been an Everettarian since 1987, lover of the city, the scenic views and all of the music in-between. Mother of cats. Chooses kindness over all.