THE WONDERMENT OF GRACE More than two dozen “Artists of Grace” are filling artCentral with the wonderment of more than one hundred of their mixed media creations. The Opening Reception and Exhibition generously underwritten by Grace Episcopal Church and Phoenix Fired Art. At the Opening, while Libby Wilson’s whimsical metal butterfly hovers as though in flight before the porch railing, guests stepping over the threshold are greeted by a feast of color and imagination. |
Weeks, months, years and lifetimes of creating are evident in the talent on exhibit. Painted wood carvings by Mel Anderson show his long time interest in woodworking and carving seen in his whimsical images of Santas and snowmen, tropical and fresh water fish. Colorful watercolors by Susie Bewick express her “sense of gratitude and acknowledge God's abundance to us all in the natural world”.
Beginning private art lessons at twelve, Pat Brown’s training is evident in her lovely portraits created in oils. Taking pictures for several years, Dennis Conrow presents his photographs on canvas and as prints showcasing the natural subjects he finds unique. Unique are the enchanting Zentangle renderings from the pens and paints of Teri Y. Diggs.
Acknowledging art has always been her first language, Liz Foster offers paintings and a magical, lighted shrine, too. In my own paintings and assemblage, I celebrate the inspiration I find in relationship with my artist beau, who as “Upstart Crow”, brings love and wisdom to our collaborative work.
The motifs in Dale Hopp’s colorful stained glass panels are windows on his youthful days spent out-of-doors. An abundance of hand formed meditation bowls, many inscribed, large and small, by Heather Grills await selection for personal devotions. Bess Lanyon’s works are primarily in pen and ink, graphite and charcoal with subtle jokes embedded. Two makers with clay, Jacque McDonald and Flynn Mountjoy, magically transform their medium with story, shape, color and glaze.
A world traveler, Steve Nelson, with oils skillfully paints his life experiences from seascapes to mountain tops. Stunning canvas mounted photographs by Melinda Dunaway Wilson tell of the inspiration she finds “in the wonderful architecture and natural beauty” regionally and in her European travels.
The wonderment of “Artists of Grace” remains on view through November 20. The public is invited. Admission is free. Donations are welcome. Gallery hour: visit www:artcentralcarthage.org or call (417) 358-4404.