SANDPOINT — A new exhibit at the Pend Oreille Arts Council Gallery aims to honor the profound influence of women in their lives and in society.

"Her Mark: A Tribute to Women" is a compelling new exhibition opening at the gallery Friday, March 7, with a public reception from 5 to 7 p.m. This collection brings together works from 10 artists, each reflecting on the profound influence of women in their lives and in society.

Through a range of mediums, including painting, mixed media, sculpture, and collage, the artists explore themes of strength, resilience, inspiration, and advocacy. Her Mark seeks to honor the role of women as nurturers, creators, and leaders while inviting viewers to reflect on the support and impact women have had throughout history and in their personal lives.

The exhibition features works by Judy Baird, Alison Barrows-Young, Claire Christy, Molly Gentry, Daris Judd, Teresa Rancourt, Brett Rennison, Jan Rust, Amy Stephensen, and Lucy West. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the theme, offering deeply personal and powerful statements alongside their artwork.

“When I sent out the call for artists, I asked them to think about the influence women have had on their lives — whether they had been comforted, supported, or loved by a woman," POAC visual arts coordinator Claire Christy said of the exhibit which was curated with the intent of fostering reflection and connection. "There is nothing like the support of a woman who loves you. I hope that viewers will take that message and, in turn, give that same love and support to the women in their lives.”

Rancourt’s paintings, for example, pay tribute to the female artists who have influenced her, such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Joan Mitchell, and Sandpoint’s own Alison Barrows-Young. 

“I completed these paintings in gratitude to all the women painters who have encouraged me to follow my passion and create regardless of what anyone thinks,” she said.

Rennison, known artistically as Chico Sundown, addresses the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women in his paintings, which incorporate the symbolic red handprint. 

“On a larger scale, now more than ever, all women’s voices are being dismissed and silenced,” Rennison said. “I seek in these works to project my depth of respect and unwavering support for Indigenous women and all women.”

Gentry’s mixed media pieces celebrate the theme of female strength through symbolic imagery. “Queen Bee shows a regal and commanding presence, representing the tireless work of women for the greater good,” Gentry said. “No. 15 depicts a woman drawing strength from many sources, shielding, protecting, and defending her own, as women have done for thousands of years.”

Christy said the exhibit comes at a time where women’s issues are at the forefront of discussion. 

“We can come together to support and uplift one another,” she said. “Art has the power to connect us and remind us of the strength found in community.”

The Pend Oreille Arts Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating quality arts experiences in North Idaho, is proud to host Her Mark as part of its mission to engage and inspire through the arts. The exhibition will be on display at the POAC Gallery, 313 N. Second Ave., Sandpoint, from March 7 to 31.

Information: artinsandpoint.org or 208-263-6139

    "When It Rains," one of the works by Brett Rennison, is among the works being shown as part of "Her Mark: A Tribute to Women", a new exhibition taking place this month at the POAC Gallery.
  

    "Blue in a Red State," a work by Teresa Rancourt, is among the works being shown as part of this month's Her Mark: A Tribute to Women", a new exhibit at the POAC Gallery. The exhibit, which opens Friday, will be on display through March 31.