Sound takes on a visual form this spring at the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, where a juried exhibition invites visitors to “hear” art with their eyes.
“A Beautiful Noise,” on display from April 6 through May 2, features 55 works exploring the energy, emotion and memory carried by sound. The exhibit challenges artists and viewers alike to consider how something typically experienced through hearing can be translated into visual expression.
The show opened with a public reception April 10, where awards were presented and attendees had an opportunity to meet participating artists and gain insight into how each interpreted the theme.
First place went to John Howard, of Crestwood, for his mixed media painting “Ride Sally Ride,” inspired after he saw the band Magic Slim and the Teardrops. Second place went to Christina Reedy, of Palos Park, for her oil painting “Giggles.” Third place was awarded to Nancy Byrne, of Shorewood, for her glazed ceramic statue “She Stood and the Leaves Sang.”
The judging was conducted by Chicago artist Tony Bedolla, who said he evaluated each piece based on composition and overall artistic presentation.
“I reviewed the composition and the artistic look. I wanted to be very versatile,” Bedolla said. He added that Byrne’s piece stood out in part because of its evocative title, “She Stood and the Leaves Sang.”
The exhibition draws inspiration from the idea that even a single sound can hold deep personal meaning — evoking memories, stirring emotion or influencing perspective. Through a variety of mediums, the works on display aim to capture those intangible qualities and make them visible.
The theme extends beyond the gallery walls, tying into the center’s tea fundraiser, also titled “A Beautiful Noise,” scheduled for April 12. The event will feature singer Denny Diamond performing songs made famous by Neil Diamond, along with storytelling woven throughout the performance.
Both events are being held at the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek Road in Palos Park.
Organizers say the pairing of the exhibit and fundraiser underscores a shared goal: celebrating the many ways sound connects people — whether through art, music or memory.
