On the Verge: Emerging Artists

Movie Picks
Get out and see “Sin Nombre”, it’s moving, it’s harsh and it never backs down. This is a powerful and moving film; best anti-gang motivation ever.

I loved Star Trek, it was serious fun, make time to see this summer feature.

On the Verge
What a cool show; ten of Western North Carolina’s emerging artists have been selected to represent. Over 150 artists submitted work for consideration, not surprising for a region known to foster its artists.

The work of Ian Brownlee, Ben Johnson, Marie Knight, Genie Maples, Libby & Jim Mijanovich, Sylvie Rosenthal, Gabriel Shaffer, E. Ryan Simmons, and Megan Van Deusen is featured in a show at the Asheville Area Arts Council through May 29, 2009.

A short bio of each artist is available in May 2009, “The ARTS Issue”, of WNC Magazine. The powers that be at WNC magazine are delighted with the outcome and huge number of web hits on this issue. Keep it up we need your support! Please let everyone know that art is important to you and to your community. We love Asheville because of the many cultural offerings, if they go away so will the great quality of life we so enjoy here.

Three Day Encaustic Class
I’ve just finished teaching a 3 Day class here in Asheville; Fleta Monaghan hosted me and my hot plates and my heat guns in her River’s Edge Studios this past week end.

We had so much fun! Everyone just jumped in with both, uh, hands and made some art. This class starts from the very beginning and ends with intermediate encaustic techniques. All students left with finished pieces, many with the determination to continue on.

I’ll teach this class again in September, stay tuned for dates, etc.

My Work
I have been very busy with my own work; it’s been a most productive time for me. I’m very pleased to have been invited to show in two regional galleries, The Design Gallery in Burnsville and the new Revolving Arts Gallery in Hendersonville.

If you have not visited The Design Gallery, 7 S Main St, Burnsville, NC, I urge to check it out. Firstly, it’s a delightful day trip from Asheville and secondly, you are going to be astounded by the quality work in Wendy Reid’s gallery.

Artists are drawn to this region for many reasons: natural beauty, spirituality, cultural happenings, m usic, the long history of art making, etc. The quality of work available will astonish. Wendy is personally acquainted with of all her artists. She will quickly share that knowledge to give you a firm sense of what is happening with any particular piece of art; you will make an informed choice.

Wendy and I were featured in the May issue of WNC Woman. Check it out, if you’d like a copy just let me know.

Down in Hendersonville, Julie Spalla and David Lookingbill have launched The Revolving Arts Gallery. Expect to hear much more about this gorgeous gallery located at 511 S. Main St.