Feature image: Painting by Andrew Raeside. Courtesy of Ripple Artspace.
Submitted
Platteville, WI — Ripple Artspace will host an Artist Reception on Friday, June 26, from 4–7pm celebrating two new exhibitions featuring the work of regional artists Mike Hadfield and Andrew Raeside. The reception is free and open to the public.
In the main gallery, Puppets of Peculiar Paramount showcases handcrafted puppets by Platteville artist Mike Hadfield. Blending humor, imagination, and social commentary, Hadfield’s whimsical creations explore both the playful and political dimensions of contemporary life. Drawing on traditions of storytelling, sculpture, and performance, the exhibition invites visitors to engage with a cast of memorable and thought-provoking characters.
In the upper gallery, That You Not Dare to Forget features abstract paintings by Dubuque artist Andrew Raeside. Influenced by the traditions of Abstract Expressionism, Raeside’s work explores emotion, spirituality, and human connection through color, gesture, and form. A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Raeside has spent decades creating and teaching art and is an active member of the Dubuque arts community.
“These exhibitions highlight two very different artistic approaches, yet both artists are deeply interested in the human experience,” said Bill Mitchell, President and Gallery Director of Ripple Artspace. “Mike’s puppets invite us to laugh, reflect, and question, while Andrew’s paintings encourage contemplation and connection. Together they create a fascinating conversation across the gallery.”
The exhibitions will remain on view through August 8 and may be viewed during regular gallery hours: Thursdays and Fridays from 4–7pm and Saturdays from 10am–2pm.
Ripple Artspace is a volunteer-driven nonprofit arts organization located in downtown Platteville. Formerly known as Rountree Gallery, the organization recently adopted its new name as part of an effort to broaden its reach while continuing its longstanding commitment to connecting people through creativity.
For more information, visit rippleartspace.org.
Contact:
Bill Mitchell, Gallery Director
Ripple Artspace
120 W. Main Street
Platteville, WI 53818
773.415.8215
hello@rippleartspace.org