‘Sharing Spaces’ exhibit by Peggy and Shapleigh Smith opens Feb. 19 at Axel’s

February 18, 2025  |  By Whitney Aldrich

Sculpture, 'Going Native,' by Peggy Smith

“No two visions are ever the same.” 

That’s the shared belief of husband-and-wife artists Peggy and Shapleigh Smith, whose work, though rooted in the same medium—photography—offers a striking contrast in style, tone, and emotion. 

Their collaborative exhibition, “Sharing Spaces,” at Axel’s Gallery and Frame Shop opens Feb. 19 and runs through March 29. Together, their latest collection reveals two very different artistic journeys, yet both drawn from the same source of inspiration: the world through their lens.

For Peggy, photography serves as the launch pad for an intuitive, playful process. Her creative approach is marked by a “no risk, no gain” philosophy, embracing bold colors, organic shapes, and whimsical forms. 

The result is a stunning array of ceramic sculptures that blend playful abstraction with a vibrant energy, capturing the joyful, unexpected beauty of life itself. The work invites viewers to step into a world where creativity is unbound, and where color and shape tell a story all their own.

Shapleigh on the other hand, brings a grounded, thoughtful approach to his photography, capturing the still, quiet beauty of Vermont's landscape. His work reflects a deep connection to the natural world, with a particular focus on the Barre stone quarries, where the raw power of stone contrasts with the delicate light of the world around it. 

His photography speaks to a reverence for the past and an understated elegance, finding depth and narrative in the smallest moments of rural life.

Though their styles may differ dramatically, both have found inspiration in the land and life around them, using the camera lens as a means of exploration and expression. Together their work offers a fascinating glimpse into two very distinct creative worlds—one exuberantly full of life and the other quietly contemplative.

Peggy and Shapleigh Smith will discuss their work and share personal stories at the opening reception for their show on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be offered. All are welcome. Free.

With the exception of special events, Axel’s Gallery and Frame Shop is open Wednesday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Whitney Aldrich is owner of Axel’s Gallery and Frame Shop.