How often do you get the chance to see a Gallery Exhibition of an internationally renowned artist in Rockford? What if that showing was the first such display by the artist? The two things combined show just how important this event is. They also should tell you that if you miss this one you’ll be kicking yourself for a long time.

Ed Unitsky is the artist and his work has been seen most conspicuously in the world of progressive rock where he has designed numerous CD covers and logos for genre favorites like The Flower Kings and Illinois band Starcastle. This outlet has certainly brought Unitsky a high level of recognition in both the art world and the world of music.

Unitsky was born in Belarus in 1962 and discovered his love for art at an early age. In some ways, though he had created many works before then, it wasn’t until 2002 that artist and medium were truly wed. It was then that Unitsky discovered the wonders of creating art in a digital format. Showcasing a modernization of an old world Russian aesthetic, Unitsky’s creations became even more inspired in this new method of digital painting.

Unitsky’s love of music, and progressive rock in particular, led him to send his works to Roine Stolt, the main man behind Swedish prog rock sensation The Flower Kings. Stolt arranged to use a work of Stolt’s as the cover to a fan club release in 2002. It was the start of an era. Much as Roger Dean represented progressive rock art work in the 1970’s Unitsky is starting to be similarly recognized in the new century.

When you look at this illustrious background it should be apparent that you won’t often get a chance like this to see the work of such a talent on display in Rockford. That’s why you need to be at Cusco Jacks Gallery, Gifts & Gatherings on December 1st as part of their open house. The store will be open for you to view (and purchase) Unitsky’s works from 10 AM to 6 PM. If the art display isn’t enough for you, there will be giveaways, refreshments and special sales.