Artists Discuss 'Women on the Edge' Series

On Thursday, April 21 from 7-10 p.m., head to Bene Rialto, a New York City marketplace, for a reception celebrating three groundbreaking artists collaborating to bring attention to the importance of creativity, originality and innovation. Upcycled glass artist Kathleen Plate, famed choreographer Pascal Rioult, and mixed media painter Kristen Jongen will exhibit and discuss their work in the context of the essential culture of creativity.

Kathleen Plate, of Smart Glass Art, will showcase a collection of custom designed pieces including a 27 piece glass chandelier made from recycled bottles. Plate's innovative concepts have been commissioned by the Guggenheim Museum, The Coca Cola Company, Intercontinental Hotel Group and numerous private collectors. From chandeliers to runway fashion gowns, she transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary by creating functional and sophisticated works of art.

Pascal Rioult, artistic director of RIOULT Dance NY, will speak about his latest work, Women on the Edge... Unsung Heroines of the Trojan War premiering at the Joyce Theater June 21-26. The modern dance triptych pays homage to the emotional strength of Iphigenia, Helen of Troy, and Cassandra in three separate abstracted narratives. Rioult gathers inspiration from his mentor, Martha Graham, yet turns it on its ear in these three distinctive and athletic works.

On display will be a selection of work by photographer Sophia Negron who has been documenting Rioult's evocative, female-driven creative process spanning the last four years and who's latest collection of images will offer a visual sneak peek into the company's upcoming NY season.
Kristen Jongen will showcase a new series of painted cityscapes, which survey the creative visions of the tenants that live inside. These works are a departure from the more lyrical style Jongen is internationally known for.

Jongen's work has been featured in The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Huffington Post, and many other North American publications. She has authored two books, "Growing Wings: A View from Inside the Cocoon," and "Attempting Flight: Upside Down Without a Net."

All artwork will be available for public viewing and sale from April 18-24 at Bene Rialto, 13 West 38th street. Store hours: Mon- Sat 11 a.m. -7 p.m., closed Sunday.