Solo exhibition debuts in POAC Gallery Friday

The Pend Oreille Arts Council is pleased to present Northern Visions, a solo exhibition by Alison Barrows-Young, opening Friday, Jan. 9, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the POAC Gallery.

Created over the course of the artist’s 15 years living in the Sandpoint area, Northern Visions reflects a deep and evolving relationship with the landscapes of the Inland Northwest and beyond. Drawing inspiration from her woodland homes near Sandpoint and travels throughout Alberta, Montana, Washington and Oregon, Barrows-Young describes this period as “a unique and special time” in her artistic journey. 

The northern environment plays a central role in both the subject matter and structure of the work. Barrows-Young is especially drawn to the dramatic verticality of the region. From lowlands to towering trees to expansive skies, Barrows-Young often translates these experiences into large, vertically oriented canvases.  

“The dense, tall trees standing side by side create visions of things within them,” Barrows-Young said. “Almost like frames in a movie. There is an incredible mystery in the crossing branches and shadows that evoke surreal, nearly mystical characters.” 

Working primarily in oil paint, Barrows-Young uses the medium’s flexibility and depth to capture both physical surfaces and interior responses.  

“Oil paint is perfect for describing the varying surfaces I see,” she said. “And for blending my inner visions and feelings into my subjects, which are always full of unexpected shapes and gestures.” 

Rather than directing a specific interpretation, Barrows-Young hopes viewers will bring their own experiences to the work.  

“My favorite thing is what viewers see reflected there for them,” Barrows-Young said. “Do they recognize something they, too, have seen but perhaps lost in memory or were unable to explain?” 

One particularly meaningful piece in the exhibition is “Her Home,” which also appears on the show’s postcard. Inspired by a house built by friends in the Selle Valley, the painting weaves together architecture and nature so each moves in and out of focus.  

“I feel that is what it is like to live among the northern landscape,” Barrows-Young said. “You are fully here, whether you are indoors or outdoors. They blend most curiously.” 

The opening reception is free and open to the public. Visitors are invited to meet the artist and experience the exhibition firsthand. Northern Visions will be on view at the POAC Gallery through Jan. 31. 

For more information, visit artinsandpoint.org or contact the Pend Oreille Arts Council at 208-263-6139.