Sharing Spaces
Recent Work by Peggy & Shapleigh Smith
February 19 - March 29, 2025
“No two visions are ever the same.” That’s the shared belief of husband-and-wife artists Peggy and Shapleigh Smith, whose work, though rooted in the same medium—photography—offers a striking contrast in style, tone, and emotion. Together in a collaborative exhibition at Axel’s, their latest collection reveals two very different artistic journeys, yet both drawn from the same source of inspiration: the world through their lens.
Though Peggy and Shapleigh’s styles may differ dramatically, both have found inspiration in the land and life around them, using the lens of the camera as a means of exploration and expression. Together, their work offers a fascinating glimpse into two very distinct creative worlds—one exuberantly full of life and the other quietly contemplative.
Read the full Press Release here.
Join us at Axel’s Gallery to experience this unique pairing of visions. Peggy and Shapleigh Smith will be present to discuss their work and share personal stories at the opening reception on Saturday, February 22nd, from 5-7pm. Don’t miss the chance to meet the artists and witness the artistic conversations unfolding between light, form, and story.
Light snacks and refreshments will be offered. All are welcome.
Coagulate
Recent Work by Susan Smereka
April 2 - May 10, 2025
Susan Smereka, a visionary artist known for exploring human connections and emotional histories, presents a groundbreaking exhibition titled Coagulate. Opening on April 2nd, this body of work delves into the intricate and often invisible bonds that shape our identities—examining how family structures, both biological and chosen, influence who we are and how we relate to the world around us.
Each piece in Coagulate weaves together fragmented materials—pieces of family letters, photographs, and personal mementos—with the quarter almond shape, a recurring motif symbolizing the individual. The process of stitching these elements together mirrors the artist's meditation on the imperfections, messiness, and beauty found in familial connections. In the act of creation, Susan reveals how family, despite its complexities, remains a source of resilience and transformation.
Read the entire Press Release.
An opening reception is planned on Friday, April 4th, from 6-8pm. Don’t miss the chance to meet Susan, ask her questions and hear her story about the art you see.
Light snacks and refreshments will be offered. All are welcome.
2025 Axel's Gallery
Axel's Gallery provides opportunities for emerging artists to show locally and for our community to discover them. We are excited to present the following...
Exhibiting Artists:
Susan Smereka
Peggy and Shapleigh Smith
Edith Beatty
Belva Hayden
H. Keith Wagner
A VT Watercolor HUB Group Show
Photography Shoot-Out Winner
Community Focused Exhibitions:
Art Swap (May)
Photography Shoot-Out (January)
Smalls Group Exhibition (November/December)
