Exhibit explores artistic connection between writer and painter

This June, the Hockaday Museum of Art presents a timely and unique collaborative art exhibition between two artists spanning two continents. “Between Artists: Life in Paintings and Prose” is the result of a two-year collaboration between Damon Falke, a U.S.-born writer, poet and playwright living in northern Norway, and Montana artist Tabby Ivy.

Their journey began in 2018 when Falke noticed Ivy’s paintings on a gallery Facebook page and a conversation between the two artists began. Their long-distance communication and collaboration flourished in spite of the miles between them.

Ivy notes, “In a strange way, the distance in miles, the growing challenge of the global pandemic, as well as the time difference between Norway and Montana, allowed for a kind of intimacy in our collaboration. The disconnect provided a safe place for creative exploration and personal reflection that would not have been possible if Damon and I lived in the same place.” Over time, common themes emerged from a project born from distance, online media, and the pandemic — Reflections about life’s journey, loss, memory, and silence.

“Between Artists” incorporates the written word, sound and video components, as well as a diverse body of new work by Ivy, represented in over 30 paintings.

Of the exhibition, Falke says “Between Artists” invites the viewer to experience what is close in life, to stop and not just look, but to see and find a quiet place within themselves for reflection.”

“This is the first International collaborative project of its kind presented by the museum,” said Alyssa Cordova, Hockaday’s executive director. “While the pandemic posed many challenges, it also opened new creative opportunities, including this unique visual conversation between two artists that began in a virtual space online, but is now shared with the public as a physical, immersive art installation.”

Between Artists, Life in Paintings and Prose opens for a preview reception Thursday, June 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. and will be on view to the public June 17 to Aug. 20. A moderated panel discussion between Falke, Ivy and Charlies Pepiton about the role of collaboration between artists will be held at 4 p.m., at the Hockaday Museum of Art prior to the reception.

In addition to the exhibition, the Hockaday and Flathead Valley Community College Foundation have joined forces to offer a unique cultural experience for the community. On Saturday, June 18, the FVCC drama department will present Falke’s play, “The Scent of a Thousand Rains,” a performance piece in verse for an actor and violinist. The play is adapted for stage and directed by Charles M. Pepiton, producing artistic director of Square Top Theatre, Spokane, and performed by Seattle veteran actor Ryan Childers, with music composed, arranged and performed by violinist Tana Bachman-Bland.

The performance will be made available free to the public, however space is limited and reserved tickets are required. To reserve, contact information@ hockadaymuseum.com or call 406-755-5268.