Three other exhibitions to open

Staff report

An exhibit that showcases the decades-long work of two Pennsylvania photographers who turned their focus on commercial signs will open Sunday at the Butler art museum’s Trumbull branch at 9350 E. Market St., Howland.

Dubbed “Signs,” the exhibit, which runs through March 13, features photographs by Chuck Biddle and Mark Perrott.

The two men have documented roadside, mid-century motel and rooftop signs for the better part of 30 years. Their mostly straightforward photographs present the losses, twists of fate, and the paradoxes of these American landmarks.

Butler Director Louis Zona called the work of both men “remarkable and innovative.”

Zona also noted that the photos work especially well in the space in which they are being displayed.

“Both Perrott and Biddle are very accomplished and deserving to be exhibited in such a beautiful exhibition space as the Butler’s Trumbull branch,” said Zona. “The pristine nature of the space also offers an interesting contrast to the subject matter expressed in the work of both artists.”

An artists’ reception will take place Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m., with an artists’ talk at 2 p.m.

For information, call 330-743-1107, ext. 122.

Other art exhibitions opening this weekend include:

“Encompass” at Soap Gallery, 117 S. Champion St., downtown Youngstown, opening Friday and running through Jan. 30.

This show showcases the work of female artists from throughout the region in a variety of media and styles. The entire gallery will be used for the show, which includes paintings, mixed media, drawings, video and sculpture.

An opening reception will take place Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free.

“This is an exciting opportunity to feature more women in the visual arts in Youngstown, and give the community a chance to experience these artists’ artwork in the downtown,” said Daniel Rauschenbach, gallery director.

Artists include Kristen Kantounatakis, Crystal Beiersdorfer, Jackie Bader, Ann Ryser, Lori Catanzarite, Heather Seno, Elise McKeown Skolnick, Anastasia Soboleva, Rosemary Connelly-Prample, Linda Brink, Jamie Ausperk, Shannon Hamilton, Kristina Rule, Amy Rigby, Sara Oliver, Amanda Durig, Elizabeth Klingler, Jana Ferris, Jennifer Nicklos, Brandy Briya, Jo Ann Buzulencia, Susan Griffin, Katie Gould and Sara Gardner Ciccarelli.

“The Starving Artist,” featuring works by Jayaira Grhim, at Flambeau’s restaurant, 2300 Market St., Youngstown, from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday.

It will be the first exhibition for Grhim, owner of Artistic Genius Arts.

The event will include a live band, food and several local poets. Grhim’s original hand-made acrylic and oil artwork will be available for purchase. Each piece reflects the theme of facing the challenges of life while pursuing an art career.

“The Starving Artist” exhibit also is part of Grhim’s goal to rejuvenate the city by rebuilding support of local artists. “The Valley has an enormous amount of talented artists that go unnoticed,” she said. “It’s my personal belief that by creating an environment of open and honest expression through art is an important step in the right direction to rebuilding the area.”

Tickets are on sale at Eventbrite.com.