Presence, which opens this evening at Atrium Gallery, includes portraits by NY artist Peter Charlap that are not for sale. The work is shocking as these are portraits of prisoners incarcerated on Death Row at the infamous Polunsky Unit, a state facility in Livingston, TX. The subjects “exude a natural warmth and directness” one wouldn’t expect from people condemned to die. This is the first time the portraits will be shown in a commercial setting.
Here’s how proprietor Carolyn Miles explains her decision to exhibit figurative works for this milestone exhibition: “The exhibition focuses on the integration between artist, figurative work and the ensuing reaction, emotion and communication with viewers and collectors, reverberating with the dealers presenting these, and the connection back to the artist. This seems almost a magical triangle.” 
Victor Wang, Professor in Painting & Drawing at Fontbonne University, oil on canvas The Purple Sky, left, and The Bluebirds, right, are included in the exhibition.
You’ll have a chance to visit with Chicago-based artist Art Kleinman, whose works are shown above, at the opening this evening. From left, Kleinman’s mixed-media pieces Hiding in Plain Sight, Mustard, and Transfusion.
Also included is Manola Valdes’ color etching & silk screen work Lille IV. The artist’s stunning Pamela III is featured on Atrium Gallery’s publicity pieces for its 30th Anniversary Exhibition. 
Also on view are Claudia DeMonte’s acrylic on wood pieces titled Where’s Home: Commuting.
Presence at Atrium Gallery, 4814 Washington Avenue, opens with a Champagne Reception tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibition is on view until November 26. For more information visit the website or call, (314) 367-1076.