Local Art Seen: Gordon Manary's Rohrschach Totems at Beaner's Central

Beaner's Central, located at 324 No. Central Avenue in Spirit Valley, has gained a reputation as a place to relax, enjoy live music, poetry and art, as well as friends. In the front section of the coffee house there is always an exhibit of artwork by local artists. This month features Rohrschach Totems by printmaker Gordon Manary.

Manary is a graduate of Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, with a B.A. in Art. He's studied at the university of Massachusetts, Amherst, as well as the University of Minnesota here in Duluth. As a freelance artist/printmaker he specializes in the design and construction of sculptures for museums, trade shows, and commercial ventures as well a being a member of the Northern Printmaking Alliance.

Like many kids growing up I made inkblots similar to the Rohrschach designs invented by Swiss psychologist/analyst Hermann Rohrschach. In point of fact, we used to have a game in based on these tests which were designed to reveal the subconscious workings of our minds. Whatever the process Manary used to make his art, the similarity to these inkblot tests is unmistakable, and fun.

Rohrschach Totems will be on display through the end of September. Grab a bit of coffee on the way to work sometime, or a bite to eat. Home made and tasty soups, wraps, sandwiches, pastries and more. (I do not get paid to say any of these things!)

EdNote: The photos here were taken in low light and do not capture the sharpness of the images or the vividness of their details. You will need to check them out in person to fully appreciate the work.

EdNote: Art on the Plaza has now completed its move to Tower Avenue in Superior. Check out their new digs in the former Dunbar Building at 1413 Tower Avenue, next to Wine Beginnings. Parking available in the back.

Meantime, life goes on all around you. Keep it real.