The playful and poignant poetics of space are exuberantly explored throughout the bright rooms of the Bethlehem House Gallery. This appealing structure is richly populated with fine art in a smartly furnished setting. The fertile focus on singular regional talent displayed in an inviting environment makes this a destination gallery for both inveterate art lovers and curious newcomers.
Exposure to the distinctive aesthetic sensibility of director and curator Ward Van Haute quickly turns visitors into fans who repeatedly return to experience the clever evolution of the space. He says, “I came to visual art through performing arts. Working primarily in prop fabrication and set decorating, I learned balance and aesthetics. This informs my growth as an artist and as a curator. I approach the gallery design and curating like it's a theatrical production. We never see the ‘actors' but we can make assumptions on who the characters are by the art in the space.”
During his 15-year career building theatrical sets and designing interiors for television, Van Haute helped create the onstage exhibit for Tina Howe's comedy Museum at Villanova Theater. He says, “I fell in love with the curatorial process. My wife, Rebecca, suggested we open a fine art gallery in which artwork would be exhibited in a fully designed home interior setting. My theatrical experience was perfectly suited for this exciting new concept.”
The gallery's dedication to top-notch local talent is admirable. Moreover, Van Haute plans on culling artists from the greater region in order to draw more people into the Lehigh Valley. His expansive vision will undoubtedly benefit our omnivorous art scene.
Next time you are in this lively neighborhood, stop by 459 Main Street and soak up the stimulating atmosphere. Assistant Director Kate Hughes is on hand to answer questions and expertly guide you through each exhibit.
459 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.419.6262 | bethlehemhousegallery.com
