BYFIELD — The Governor’s Academy is exhibiting the works of artists Kristin Petrillo and Matthew Dickey in the Peter C. Remis Lobby of the Wilkie Center for the Performing Arts through Feb. 28.
In “Foundations and Facades,” Petrillo and Dickey shine a light on urban environments, turning the everyday into extraordinary narratives through their practice. Their work explores the architecture, streetscapes, and histories that shape cities, offering viewers a compelling way to reimagine the places folks inhabit.
Petrillo, a painter based in Worcester, is captivated by the fleeting effects of light and shadow and their ability to transform industrial architecture and deserted urban landscapes. Her work has been featured in juried exhibitions across New England and is part of private collections.
“I’ve always been fascinated by how light can make the ordinary feel extraordinary,” Petrillo shares. “Even a fire hydrant or a brick building holds stories waiting to be uncovered.”
Dickey, known as the “Streetscape Curator” is based in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood. He uses painting, photography, and guided city tours to share the stories behind urban environments and their design. A native of Collinsville, Illinois, Dickey grew up exploring Route 66 and developed a lifelong fascination with architecture and streetscapes. His paintings often start with photographs taken on bike rides through neighborhoods, where he captures the essence of buildings, landmarks, and overlooked corners of the city.
“Photography is for painters in a hurry,” Dickey explains. “I’ve been taking pictures since I was a kid, and now they’re the starting point for my paintings. Someday, I hope to create a book that combines my artwork with the history of every Boston location I paint.”
A reception for “Foundations and Facades” will take place Friday, Feb. 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
The gallery is open to the public from 8 a.m. to p.m. weekdays, and Saturday, and Sunday by appointment. Please contact Shanna Fliegel to make an appointment. Follow @govsarts and @govsacademy on Instagram for updates.
The Governor’s Academy is the oldest boarding school in New England. More than 400 students from 22 states and 19 countries attend the 250-year-old school.