Robin L. Bernstein: Hope Dies Last

March 6 – April 19, 2025
​
Artist’s Reception
​March 8th, 1-4pm

Artist’s Talk
Sat, March 22nd, starting at 4 pm

Transmission Gallery is pleased to present Hope Dies Last, a solo exhibition of sumptuous works by Robin L. Bernstein addressing complex and challenging subjects.

In the immediate encounter, the work is beautiful. Dynamic cut shapes and enticing color invite the viewer in. At first, they appear to be painted, one can see the swirling line work. Stepping up closer, the elaborate threaded detail becomes evident. Hundreds and hundreds of pieces of thread and string have been pressed into wax creating a mesmerizing and tactile effect. This visual feast reverberates with our senses, reflecting the intimacy of the endeavor. The richness of color evokes a sense of warmth and vitality, contrasting with the heavy themes the works address for indeed there is a message imbedded in each piece, a warning or troubling truth, one we might rather not know too deeply.

Bernstein researches her themes extensively while developing each composition, thoughtfully considering and selecting the symbolism layered throughout the work. Shaped panels provide a framework to carry the concept. Colors and forms may reference historical suffering, specific incidents or fundamental principals. While some pieces in the exhibition specifically call out the insidious subtexts of white supremacy and fascism masquerading as more benign movements, others speak directly, painfully even, to the perils impending along the gamut of human endeavor. Rather than meet the future with denial, the work calls for recognition of those potentialities and, despite the looming threats, richly colored elements may be seen as rays of hope, inviting a personal commitment to consciously educate ourselves, and move forward in even small everyday actions, collectively making new decisions for a healthy and just society and planet.

Please join us for the Opening Reception, Saturday, March 8th from 1-4 pm. All are welcome to stop in, greet the Artist and enjoy the light refreshments, Free street parking nearby.

The gallery will also be open till 8pm on Friday, March 7th for the Oakland Art Murmur First Friday Art Walk. Meet your friends and enjoy the evening. With two galleries in the building there’s a lot of art to see and plenty to talk about.