Artspace Gallery in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, has opened a new exhibition titled “Dissonance,” featuring works by member artist Jermaine Johnson. The show is dedicated to Johnson’s late mother, Tanya, who passed away in 2023. A public reception will be held on Saturday, May 30, from 4-6 p.m. at the gallery, located at 221 Center St., where the artist will be present to discuss his work. Johnson, an oil painter, wire weaver, and fiber artist educated at the Art Institute of Philadelphia, explores themes of media, spirituality, race, history, and popular culture through mixed-media pieces that incorporate water-mixable oils, paper, natural and synthetic fibers, semi-precious stones, and copper wire.
This exhibition matters because it highlights the ongoing vitality of local, cooperative art spaces in smaller communities. Artspace Gallery, one of the region’s oldest fine art and craft galleries, has operated for over 20 years as a cooperative where member artists share responsibilities. “Dissonance” exemplifies how regional galleries provide a platform for artists to address complex social and personal themes, fostering community engagement and supporting locally made art. Such venues are essential for maintaining access to independent, local art and culture outside major metropolitan centers.