An exhibition of landscape paintings by architects and artists Martha Leibowitz Rothman and Elliot Paul Rothman reveals views from their travels in Cuba and India—and observations from their Cape Cod home environment. Stylistically varied, the exhibition juxtaposes the inspiring dynamism of far-flung locations with well-loved surroundings that both artists have studied on a quiet daily basis, over the course of decades.
While addressing similar subject matter, the artists who have been married since 1964, take differing approaches to their work. Elliot paints on site, primarily using watercolor which contributes to the work’s sense of immediacy. His Cuba paintings combine watercolor with charcoal, enhancing their gutsy and vigorous effect.
Martha’s work develops through an iterative process of translation in which she transforms in situ pastel and watercolor sketches into abstract acrylic paintings and monoprints with a sense of restraint and geometric vibration. Wellfleet’s landscape is her main focus and inspiration.
Curated by visual artist Megan Hinton and Susie Nielsen of farm projects for the Wellfleet Preservation Hall, this exhibition comprises new work that has not been shown before.
Artist Statements
Martha Leibowitz Rothman
“My painting practice has evolved after retirement from active practice as an architect. From casual representation of nature through sketching and painting in situ, I have found new ways of working by taking classes with Megan Hinton, well-known Wellfleet artist and teacher. Translating my architectural perception of space into two dimensions and visualizing characteristic Outer Cape color and light has taken me to a constantly shifting place.”
Elliot Paul Rothman
“Studying watercolor at Carnegie Mellon University almost 60 years ago led to a lifetime of observing the world around me, capturing my impressions whether traveling or at home. Painting on site is working with a moving target—as the sun shifts, detail is hidden and revealed. Watercolor allows me to express the light as it moves and reveal layered spaces,while finding a certain abstraction.” elliotpaulrothman.com
