Play as Practice

Description

Play as Practice

Explores the Creative Space Between Experimentation and Finished Work

Exhibition: Play as Practice
Dates: May 21 – June 21, 2026
Opening Reception: Thursday, May 21, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Cove Gallery, 37 Rocky Neck Avenue, Gloucester, MA

Gloucester, MA — Play as Practice is a five-artist exhibition curated by Mallie Loring Pratt and Hanna Taylor Marino that examines the dynamic relationship between formal studio practice and the experimental work that unfolds alongside it. Featuring work by Pratt, Marino, Isabel Bacon, Margaret Sweet, and Julia Von Metzsch, the exhibition offers an intimate look into the creative process and the “side journeys” that quietly shape each artist’s visual language.

Bringing together painting, sketches, collage, and exploratory works, Play as Practice invites viewers to consider what constitutes an artist’s “real” work. By placing finished pieces in conversation with studies and experiments, the exhibition reveals the moments of play, uncertainty, and discovery that often lead to artistic breakthrough.

Each of the five artists moves fluidly between abstraction and representation, sharing a common interest in where those boundaries blur. Though distinct in style and approach, the artists are united by a willingness to embrace process, curiosity, and experimentation as essential parts of their practices.

Collectively, the artists bring significant professional recognition to the exhibition, including museum exhibitions, gallery representation throughout New England, critical coverage, brand collaborations, and work held in private and corporate collections nationwide.

Rather than presenting only polished outcomes, Play as Practice offers audiences a behind-the-scenes perspective on contemporary painting practices and the evolving decisions that shape them.

Play as Practice will be on view at Cove Gallery in Gloucester from May 21 through June 21, 2026. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, May 21 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Featured Artists

Mallie Loring Pratt

Hanna Taylor Marino

Isabel Bacon
Margaret Sweet
Julia Von Metzsch