“A Philadelphia artist who creates vibrant oil and encaustic wax paintings that express the joy found in finding the divine in everyday life.”

An exhibition of works by Monique Kendikian-Sarkessian  created with oils, encaustic wax and icons is on display at  Swarthmore Borough Hall, 121 Park Avenue, Swarthmore, from February 1st through the 28th.

Monique Kendikian-Sarkessian earned her bachelor of fine arts degree in painting at Temple University’s Tyler School of Art. In continuing studies she has studied 18th Century European furniture painting, art education, and traditional icon painting with a Russian master iconographer. She has also taken workshops with internationally recognized painters Stanley Bielen, Dale O. Roberts, Jeff Schaller, Jon Redmond and Moe Brooker.

Since 1984, Monique’s work has been shown and honored with awards at numerous exhibitions across the country including 2 museums. Her most recent exhibition was a solo exhibition at Villanova University Art Gallery, which was widely acclaimed.

Monique describes her work as having,  “An expressive nature shown via vibrant color, bold brush stroke, and expressive lines which seek to recreate the emotion I feel as I am inspired by my subjects. My goal is to have my artwork radiate the joy of life. Like Henri Matisse whose works eventually became pure color, pure shape and pure light.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to meet this dynamic artist at her opening reception  on Friday February the 3rd from 5-7pm and to view her colorful and expressive work which will be on display through the month of February. The opening reception and exhibit are free and open to the public.