Joe Bello, right, and his wife, Patty, are shown with examples of his artwork during a previous exhibit at Artsbridge’s former location on Market Street a few years ago. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — Artsbridge has announced a special exhibit featuring the works of the late Joe Bello, a celebrated artist from Parkersburg who focused on pareidolia imagery.

The collection, created over 25 years, reveals Bello’s ability to find meaningful images within visual patterns and stands as a lasting tribute to his artistic vision.

Bello’s art has been recognized and displayed in several venues, most notably at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, Md., where his work was exhibited in 2016 and 2017. The exhibit at Artsbridge honors his legacy by bringing these powerful pieces to the lobby for public viewing following his passing.

Pareidolia, the art of perceiving specific, meaningful images from abstract patterns, was Bello’s passion and specialty. Each piece in this collection was envisioned at different times and carefully assembled by him. At the American Visionary Art Museum, he curated a year-long exhibition, highlighting the depth and creativity behind his process. He studied diverse sources to discover and bring to life these hidden images.

Born on Feb. 5, 1943, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and raised in New York City, Bello (Jose Bello-Correa) served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1975. He pursued higher education at Luzerne County Community College and King’s College in Pennsylvania.

Beyond his visual art, he was a musician and author, penning the autobiography Marine Tigers: A NewyoRican Story, which reflects on his life growing up in New York City.

The exhibit viewing hours are Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays by appointment only. The exhibit will be on display through the New Year at 350 Seventh St., Parkersburg.

An evening viewing event will be announced soon.

For more information or to schedule a Friday appointment, please contact Artsbridge.