Restaurant hosts ‘fun and lively’ art opening

Kurt Larsen’s art exhibition opening at Trulli Flatbread could not have occurred at a better time. \nOn the same day of the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District’s strategic plan launch, the local arts community came out to support Larsen’s work.\nThe exhibition, the largest Larsen has shown in the Midwest, will be on display at Trulli until March 25.\nFriends, fellow artists and musicians came to see Larsen’s collection. Deputy Mayor Maria Heslin said events like this one encourage local art.\n“It’s so great to see a wonderful new downtown restaurant supporting the local arts,” she said. “This is a fun and lively event and so exemplifies the spirit and support in the arts in Bloomington.” \nKnown for his use of texture and color, Larsen integrates nature into his abstract paintings. He believes that painting is a dying art form, and that events such as his exhibition bring more attention to the arts.\n“I hope (painting) isn’t going to be too dead because I think we need more painting and less video,” he said.\nHis friend George Murphy described Larsen as a “true visual artist,” one that is constantly working in the studio and creating.\n“People aren’t aware that he does such a variety of pieces,” Murphy said. “And this barely touches the variety he does.”\nLarsen’s paintings complemented Trulli’s intimate wine bar and gallery space, according to Lisa Morrison, Trulli’s director of marketing.\n“(The collection) was meant to be in this space,” added Trulli owner Candace Finch. \nMusicians Curtis Cantwell Jackson and Jim Krause also performed during the reception.\nLarsen received positive feedback during the opening. Though he does not usually show his work in Bloomington, he has upcoming shows at Gallagher Gallery and other locations.\n“It’s great to see someone who doesn’t promote themselves be welcomed in this community with open arms,” Murphy said.