The Epsten Gallery in Village Shalom is presenting “The Collection of Babs Lowenstein,” an art exhibit featuring the works of local artist Babs Lowenstein.
The exhibit will be on display until May 1 and showcases a collection of abstract oil paintings and ceramics made to capture the essence of color, light and the artist’s lifelong passion for creativity.
This exhibition helps support art therapy and other art programs that engage residents in the community. The exhibit is funded by the Babs and Bill Lowenstein Art Fund to ensure that her legacy of creativity and community support will continue to inspire future generations.
Babs Lowenstein’s art is deeply rooted in her personal experiences, a lifetime of “collecting beauty in her mind” as she traveled the world. As an artist, she is captivated by color in all its forms.
"When I close my eyes, I see color," she said, "and when music plays, I witness it flowing and blending into one another."
Inspired by her travels — from the translucence of tulip petals in Holland to the reds and oranges of Chinese dragons — Lowenstein’s works are made as a celebration of hues and the interplay of color and light.
Light, a constant fascination for Lowenstein, also plays a significant role in her art.
"I am endlessly fascinated by the way light pierces the sky and gently rests over mountain ranges," she said.
Each art piece was made to embody the merging of color and light, inviting viewers to experience the emotions she feels when she witnesses their beauty in the world.
Lowenstein began her journey into painting later in life but has always been surrounded by creativity. A lifelong educator, she credits her family for nurturing her artistic spirit, with her mother, sister, daughters and granddaughters all sharing a deep connection to the arts. Lowenstein’s paintings can be found in collections in Kansas City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Houston and Boston.
The exhibit also honors Lowenstein’s legacy as a beloved educator and community member. Known affectionately as "Miss Babs," she spent more than 30 years as a preschool teacher at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, where her creative approach to teaching impacted the lives of thousands of young students. As a retired educator, she continued to nurture her own creative passions, studying painting and ceramics at the Jewish Community Center's Heritage Center under the guidance of mentor Patricia Caviar.
In her second chapter, Lowenstein found love again with Bill Lowenstein, and together they shared 30 years. Today, Lowenstein enjoys spending time with her children, 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren while continuing to create art that speaks to her dynamic spirit.
The exhibit is free to view until May 1 at The Epsten Gallery at Village Shalom (5500 W 123rd St, Overland Park, KS 66209), and donations are encouraged. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
Those interested in more information about the exhibit or wanting to schedule a private tour can contact David Spizman at .