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2col dawn

Sam Wisnewski, “Dawn,” 2007, oil on canvas, 17 by 17 inches.

MUST RUN 6-29

JOHN PENCE GALLERY PRESENTS BENNETT VADNAIS, SAM WISNESKI w/1 cut

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SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. — On view through July 28 at the John Pence Gallery is “Introductions 2007: Bennett Vadnais and Sam Wisneski.”

The John Pence Gallery presents works by the two artists from New York City as a part of the longstanding tradition of introducing new talents during the early summer. Years ago, the San Francisco Art Dealers Association began the Introductions program as a way to bring new talents to the city — artists that were being featured in San Francisco for the first time.

Bennett Vadnais and Sam Wisneski will each present a solo show.

Both artists are affiliated with Jacob Collins, founder of the Water Street Atelier and the new Grand Central Academy of Art, which specialize in classical realism. Wisneski now teaches at Grand Central and Vadnais teaches privately in New York City.

Vadnais, 29, grew up in Washington state and began pursuing art in his early teens. He knew he wanted to become a professional painter and studied at various prestigious schools including the Bougie Studio, the Water Street Atelier and the Art Students League of New York.

Subsequently he moved to Europe and immersed himself in the rich traditions of paintings — with a new focus on the landscape. His style is a combination of pointillism, heavy impastos and an array of color.

Wisneski, 28, was born and raised in Wisconsin. While there, he started his art career with an emphasis on illustration and produced a number of winning posters that have become collector’s items. Wisneski then migrated to New York City and obtained an MFA from the New York Academy of Art. Subsequently he studied with Jacob Collins at his atelier. Now, he is an instructor at the New Grand Central Academy of Art in Manhattan.

This show will include figures, still lifes, florals and interiors. In his work, he pays tribute to the classical artists who have gone before.

For information, 415-441-1138 or www.johnpence.com.