February 2012 Mary's Update

Twilight Serves Her Country

My painting, Twilight, has been chosen by U.S. Ambassador William Moser and Mrs. Moser to hang in our embassy in the Republic of Moldova. The painting will remain in service for two years.

I consider cultural exchange to be most valuable and I am honored to participate in the Art in Embassies Program.
Here’s a bit more information about the Art in Embassies program from their mission statement:
Established in 1963, the U.S. Department of State’s office of ART in Embassies (AIE) plays a vital role in our nation’s public diplomacy through a culturally expansive mission, creating temporary exhibitions and permanent collections, artist and cultural exchange programming, and publications.
AIE’s exhibitions allow foreign citizens, many of whom might never travel to the United States, to personally experience the depth and breadth of our artistic heritage and values, making what has been called a: ''footprint that can be left where people have no opportunity to see American art.''
Our Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton, writes: “To create more friends and fewer enemies, we can’t just win wars. We must find common ground and common purpose with other peoples and nations so that together we can overcome hatred, violence, lawlessness, and despair.
Through its temporary exhibitions and permanent collections, ART in Embassies intrigues, educates and connects—playing an ambassadorial role as important as that served by traditional diplomacy. Connecting people to people through the visual arts advances freedom of expression and invites an exchange of ideas.
ART in Embassies reveals the rich history and cultural heritage of the United States and the experiences that we share with peoples of different countries, backgrounds and faiths. Every exhibition reminds us of the diversity of mankind and the values that bind us together.”

Cast Iron Cook-Off
The Cast Iron Cook-Off showcases West Virginia’s culinary talent and attractions, it is populated by West Virginia restaurant owners whose teams compete.

My team, Team Cimino, of Café Cimino in Sutton, West Virginia, won for “Best Use of West Virginia Value-Added Products”. As the purpose of this oh-so-fun event is best be described as West Virginia’s culinary trade-fair we are pretty darn proud of this award.

Plus, I’m excited to add “award winning chef to my resume”. For those of you who remember me when, “ Yes, I CAN cook.” Granted I came late to the party and, therefore, am making up for lost time. You can come by to check out my cast iron award any time.

Asheville Area Arts Council names Kitty Love Executive Director

Kitty is a big vision woman and she can get things done; I think this a great combination for AAAC. Expect to see amazing things from our rejuvenated Arts Council.

Kitty is the force behind the now two-day Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival (LAAFF) and she was instrumental in establishing the Artists Resource Center.

We are so very lucky to have Kitty Love working as an advocate for the arts in Western North Carolina. She is dedicated, thoughtful, approachable and full of community building energy. I predict a great future for our artists and our arts community.

You may reach Kitty at kitty@ashevillearts.com . She will welcome your input–just be ready to roll up your sleeves and pitch in.

Oh! Yes, I’ve been making art!

Don’t worry all this exciting and fun stuff has only fired me up. I have been very busy in the studio and am pleased with the outcome.

I’ll have 20+ pieces featured at New York Art Expo, the world’s largest fine art trade show now in its 33rd year.

My work is included in the “Wax Foundations: Encaustic Work in the Southeast” show at Meredith College in September of this year, and in the Sixth International Encaustic Conference show at A Gallery, Provincetown, ME this June.

Anytime you feel like checking up on me just give a call (828.712.3786) to come see the work and/or to see me in action making the work.

Class Schedule
For 2012, I’ll be teaching at Constance Williams Gallery in the River Arts District. Dates are: March 5-7 or June 18-20 or Sept 10-12. To receive information about my classes please contact Tina at the gallery.

This is a fast paced from zero to intermediate class. You will make a ton of work and have a whole bunch of fun. Meanwhile, you will have learned up to intermediate technique in encaustic painting. All this in three days! Come join the fun.



What the heck is a Pecha Kucha ?