A piece of art by local artist Sara Baker Michalak.

Sara Baker Michalak: Metaphysical, an exhibition of mixed media paintings and collages, opens on Monday, Jan. 14, at the Fredonia Technology Incubator Art Gallery. The exhibition is on display through Friday, March 1. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Incubator is located at 214 Central Ave in Dunkirk. The parking lot is accessible from Washington Street. A reception is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 17, 4 p.m – 6 p.m. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. Please RSVP for the reception by going to https://sarmichalakfti.eventbrite.com/ which is also listed on the Incubator homepage and Facebook page.

“My art comes from great experiences outdoors. You may see the familiar in these works like flowers, for example, or imagery more on the abstract side – nature’s moods and the seasons of a place such as contrasting light and dark, layered texture, earthy color. Either way, I would like the work to contribute to conversations about all that the natural world holds, how fragile it can be and the importance of caring for it. Of course, simply seeing the work as it is – “art for art sake” – is fine too,” said Sara Baker Michalak.

The exhibition of fifty-three artworks includes paintings on canvas and wood panel, mixed media collages on wood panel, and collage transfers on watercolor paper. Dimensions range from 10 x 10 inches to 36 x 48 inches. Using time consuming processes which involve deconstructing realistic images and incorporating multiple mediums, Michalak produces unique abstractions that reflect her interest in creating contemplative compositions and her dedication to the ecosystem. A portion of the sales from the exhibition and reception will be donated to the Northern Chautauqua Environmental Fund.

Sara Baker Michalak was born in Westfield, New York and grew up in Western New York. She received a BFA from the School for American Crafts, in Rochester, NY and an MA in Interdisciplinary Studies (Nature and Culture) from the State University of New York at Fredonia. After living and traveling elsewhere she returned to raise a family and work in the area. Michalak has exhibited her work widely, including at New York’s American Craft Museum, and the Albright Knox Art Gallery and Burchfield Penney Art Center in Buffalo. Her works are included in private and public collections. As artist in residence, Michalak has provided opportunities for new arts experiences to students in public schools and for individuals with developmental disabilities. In addition to her art studio practice, she propagates imperiled native flora.

The Fredonia Technology Incubator promotes economic growth in Western New York by supporting entrepreneurship and the development of new, innovative companies into successful business ventures. The Incubator provides administrative and business services, mentoring, networking, professional consulting, educational opportunities, and access to capital and work ready space. The Incubator is part of Fredonia’s Division of Advancement, Engagement and Economic Development (EED) facilitates and supports university-community collaborations, and oversees the university’s StartUp NY economic development program. The exhibit is curated by Cathy and Jesse Marion Art Gallery Director Barbara Racker who oversees the FTI Gallery.