Art Review By Les Overlock

The current show at Melina Perry’s Gallery is a “tour de force” art exhibit because the human figure does not often appear in Benicia’s galleries- especially the nude figure. But Peter McNeill, the artist, pulls a stunning trick on the viewer’s eye. The public generally thinks they are seeing photography. Instead it is “conte pastel” rendering par excellence. This is a testament to the craft of the artist. His ability to shadow and highlight images captures the essence of his subject. The poses offer a wide choice in views. All are very tasteful: there are face portraits, sitting and standing figures- all or many in shadows, a couple entangled in love play, perceived looks on faces which range from moross to sublime.
Ironically there is an odd rendering of a man in a knit cap. This both shows the skill of the artist and offers a slant of the other images. Having personally drawn the same figures gives me an insight into the realism Peter depicts in the faces. All in all, the work represents the efforts of a very gifted artist who has honed his craft after many years. Come see by the show by July 3. The prices are right, and many red dots (sales) are prevalent.

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