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From the Greek comes the word ekphrasis, meaning description. A synesthetic art form, ekphrasis is a poem written about another form of art—most often a painting. Keats’ “Ode on a Grecian Urn” is an example of ekphrasis.

Back in the days of the Danville Weekly in print and the Pioneer Gallery in existence, I produced an ekphrasis exhibit at the late, lamented PG. Seventeen artworks were on display, each accompanied by a poem written by a viewer of the work.

I’m now fortunate enough to have had a work selected (along with those of 23 other artists) for an ekphrasis exhibit sponsored by the City of Livermore. The art will be shown at Windermere Welcome Home at 1790 First Street. Each poet was to view the works and write a poem about as many as three pieces.

The poems selected will accompany their respective pieces of art, starting with Art Walk on October 9. The show runs through November 30.

I’m off on another extended trip but will be back in time for the Art Walk and other art happenings.

John A. Barry is a writer and avocational artist. To share anything art-related, call him at 314-9528 or email jobarry@pacbell.net


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