From the wellspring of imagination to the moment where the artist’s vision materializes into a tangible form right before your eyes, Haven Gallery proudly celebrates the solo exhibitions of remarkable artists Marc Le Rest, Alexandra Verhoven, Penrider, and Michele Melcher. Each exhibition overflows with distinctive styles and perspectives.
This journey highlights the natural wonders of the world, magic, introspection, and a pinch of that which goes bump in the night – travelling into these collections will surely pique even your sixth sense. From intricate details and evocative storytelling to ethereal and dreamlike representations, each artwork seems to come alive through dynamic compositions, and in return leaves a much deeper appreciation for the creative spirit.
Marc Le Rest | Alexandra Verhoven | Penrider | Michele Melcher
Opening Reception: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 6-8pm
Alexandra Verhoven and Michele Melcher will be in attendance
Exhibition Dates: August 16 – September 14, 2025
Haven Gallery
90 Main St., | Northport, NY 11768 | (631) 757-0500
To inquire, please contact Erica via email info@havengallery.com
Marc Le Rest, In Full Feather
Haven Gallery is pleased to present a collection of fifteen new paintings from French artist Marc Le Rest for his fourth solo show, “In Full Feather” opening at Haven Gallery. “In Full Feather” continues the artists exploration of both animal and human sitters, adorned in opulent garb and armor, harking to historic nobility and status. Elaborate beadwork, lush palettes and elegance dominate Le Rest’s portraits, yet touches of humor and whimsy add a playful and light hearted element to his sitters, sharing what lies beyond the poised and posed.
ABOUT MARC LE REST
Born in the remote Armorica in France, Marc Le Rest turned his back in his early age to a promising career within the Holly Church and dedicated himself to the Arts and the kingdom of lingerie in Paris. But soon, he deserted the French capitale for New York, where he became an acclaimed garden gnomes designer. After a while he abandoned his decorative dwarfs to settle down among a bunch of drug dealers in Mexico, from where he flew to Bollywood, hoping to break through in Indian cinema. In vain.
So he withdrew along an Angels Bay back in Armorica and completely gave in his penchant for scabrous old ladies and lilliputian geishas, to whom he devoted three illustrated books. But he had to rush away from his ocean retreat and went hiding up the Black Mountains where he ended up by taking care of the dead people. And there, stroke by a sudden compulsion, he undertook to decorate with lace, penis and sumos, bodybuilders and alligators, and quantity of others harmless creatures.
In the same life, Marc Le Rest contributed as a textile designer to the collections of Hermès, Armani, J.P. Gaultier, Sonia Rykiel and Etro in Europe, but also collections of the major home furnishing textile companies in the United States.
Alexandra Verhoven, Lux Aetherea
Haven Gallery is pleased to present a collection of ten new oil paintings and pastel drawings from New Jersey based artist Alexandra Verhoven for her first solo show, “Lux Aetherea” opening at Haven Gallery. “Lux Aetherea” focuses on the artists use of ethereal light in her portraits; that of which comes from the natural world as a mirror to reflect the inner light from within. Mythological inspirations provide a timeless narrative, connecting the magic of the past with the relevancy of contemporaneous times and stories.
ABOUT ALEXANDRA VERHOVEN
Alexandra creates oil paintings and mixed media drawings depicting figurative, imaginative realism art. She was first enchanted with imaginative realism after graduating college with a B.A. in Arts Management.
Her artwork has a strong focus on capturing lighting effects and luminosity in an attempt to give form to intangible feelings. The ephemeral nature of the scenes she crafts is meant to encourage the viewer to delve into their own hopes, goals, and dreams.
Her oil painting technique involves first creating a tonal underpainting in raw umber, and then building thin layers of color on top. Her mixed media pieces often utilize graphite, charcoal, inks and pan pastels along with many other experimental mediums. Alexandra lives in New Jersey with her supportive husband and even more supportive two studio cats.
Penrider, Astral
Haven Gallery is pleased to present a collection of twelve new drawings from Spain based artist Penrider (Carlos Fdez) for his fourth solo show, “Astral” opening at Haven Gallery. “Astral” continues the artists exploration of his classic motifs focusing on time, mental development and introspection, through surreal and cinematic storytelling. Commentary on one self and the human condition provoke thought and rumination, allowing viewers to see past the literal depictions presented, and contemplate the deeper psychological elements that exist.
ABOUT PENRIDER
Penrider (Carlos Fdez) is a Spain based artist, known for graphite works that often weave human and animal kingdoms together, all while constructing witty narratives.
Michele Melcher, The Thin Thread
Haven Gallery is pleased to present a collection of fourteen new paintings from Pennsylvania based artist Michele Melcher for her first solo show, “The Thin Thread” opening at Haven Gallery. “The Thin Thread” finds inspiration from the motif of memento mori (the use of skulls as a reminder of the ephemerality of life) found in churches and graveyards, from the artists travels to Germany and Austria. A motif that dates back into art history and holds a timeless relevance, reminding the viewer to reflect on their life and their own values.
ABOUT MICHELE MELCHER
Michele Melcher is a dark surrealist painter from historic Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Her work is heavily influenced by themes of memento mori, folklore, old master paintings and a life long delight in ghost stories and the supernatural.
An editorial illustrator-turned-fine art painter, she has shown her work in galleries nationally and internationally and has collectors in many corners of the globe.
When she is not out exploring a forgotten corner of a dusty antique shop you can usually find her in her studio within a converted circa 1861 brick schoolhouse where she lives with her husband and three cats. The schoolhouse is not haunted.
