H-ton Artists Participate in Nightmare on Main Street Exhibit

Four spectacular Huntington High School artists were tapped to display their artwork at the Huntington Arts Council’s Nightmare on Main Street exhibit, which ran from October 22 through November 10.

Huntington artists Toni Reyes-Sorto, Taylor Nappi, Alice Hammerquist and Madeline Francis all showcased their work at the Main Street Gallery at 213 Main Street in Huntington village. The annual show is always open to all student-artists in grades 6-12 across Long Island. The pieces on display were picked by Huntington Arts Council officials.

The Main Street Gallery is open on Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment at other times. Call in advance for visitation on Saturday and Sunday.

Nightmare on Main is a themed show. Students were encouraged to use the work of this year’s juror, Candido Crespo titled “Vejigante” along with the following statement to inspire their own works.

“Art is a bridge, where cultural symbols dance between the vibrant hues of joy and the chilling shadows of fear. It reveals the soul of a society. Through its forms, we see celebrations of festivals painted in jubilant colors, yet whispers of anxieties told through stories molded by mythology or etched in ancient monuments. This tapestry, woven with cultural threads, allows us to understand the joys and fears that have shaped a people, offering a window into their history and the very essence of their being.”

While using the medium of their choice, artists were asked to create a work that exemplifies their culture as a vibrant tapestry. “This tapestry should reflect the joys, fears, and traditions that make your community unique,” according to the Huntington Arts Council.

Here is a closer look at the four Huntington artists and the statements that accompanied their work:

Artist: Madeline Francis

“Fading Away 2”

Digital Photography Blur, 16” x 20”

Artist Statement: “I have always loved photography and saw that I could create something beautiful with a well composed image, good lighting and an interesting subject matter. Advanced camera techniques and Photoshop have brought my work to a new and exciting level. I love to create images that capture the attention of the viewer for more than a few seconds. The work presented here is intended to make you question what you see.”

Artist: Taylor Nappi

“Gonna Get Ya”

Digital Photography, 16” x 20”

Artist Statement: “I love to be creative with art with a specific concentration on photography. Photography helps me explore ideas and feelings that are difficult to express or convey through just words. The image presented here depicts a sense of fear and panic.

Artist: Toni Reyes-Sorto

“Vampire”

Fabric and Lace; 65” x 18’ x 11”

Artist Statement: “‘Vampire’ is a striking gown inspired by the allure of darkness and the elegance of the night. It captures the essence of gothic beauty with a modern twist. Vampire legends have existed for centuries throughout many ancient cultures in Eastern Europe.”

Artist: Alice Hammerquist

“Nokk”

Digital, 18” x 24”

Artist Statement: “I am of Scandinavian descent. This piece represents the Nokk, a lake monster from Norwegian folklore that lures people into a lake by playing the violin. This piece took about six hours to procreate with multiple techniques and rendering styles.”

The Main Street Gallery is a small, but enchanting depository of art created by those of all ages, including the four Huntington High School teenagers.