Huntsville Museum of Art to ask council to OK new building plan

Huntsville Times-

Museum to ask council to OK new building plan

Thursday, February 26, 2009

By JOHN PECK

Times Staff Writer john.peck@htimes.com

Redesign cuts parking, shaves cost to $8M

The Huntsville Museum of Art will ask the City Council tonight for the go-ahead on a scaled down expansion plan of its building in Big Spring International Park.

Council President Mark Russell will introduce a resolution affirming council approval of the new design. Council approval would allow museum officials to move forward with detailed architectural plans in the hope of starting construction by summer.

The plan includes a reduction of 35 surface parking places after council members raised concerns about the loss of green space.

City Planning Commission approval is needed before laborers can start turning dirt. Completion will take about a year.

The redesign was ordered after construction bids for the addition came in at $12 million, far exceeding the project's budget. Fuqua & Partners Architects came up with a new plan that shaves the cost to about $8 million. The city has committed $4 million to the project and the museum is covering the balance with fundraising.

To read more of this copyright story please visit: 

http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/local.ssf?/base/news/1235643386214100.xml&coll=1

To find out more about the Huntsville Museum of Art please visit: www.hsvmuseum.org

Portraits land lauds for artists at Liberty

Huntsville Times-

Portraits land lauds for artists at Liberty

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

By GREGG L. PARKER

For the Madison Spirit writeone35758@yahoo.com

Students include personalities in visions of self

David Earnst and Kelsey Townsend, freshmen at Liberty Middle School, enjoy drawing landscapes and still life, even cartoons. But artwork depicting themselves drew attention from two art shows.

Earnst's self-portrait will represent Liberty for Youth Art Month at the Huntsville Museum of Art. Townsend's self-portrait was chosen for the State Superintendent's Visual Arts Exhibit.

Earnst and Townsend drew their self-portraits for Sarah Baker's ninth-grade art class assignment by using a black-and-white photograph as a reference. "They both spent a lot of time on their drawings and their work paid off," Baker said.

To read more of this copyright article please visit: 

http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/madison.ssf?/base/news/123555693498190.xml&coll=1

Alabama Art Institution Returns to Huntsville

Article featured in the Valley Planet http://www.valleyplanet.com/article.php?id=2453

by Curtis Benzle, Chairman

The Alabama Clay Conference is celebrating its twenty forth year by coming to the Huntsville Von Braun Center March 13-15. Held annually in locations throughout the state, the Alabama Clay Conference has only been in Huntsville one other time, 1989. The 2009 version was attracted back to Huntsville by a concurrence of events; the “Innovation and Change” exhibition of major figures in the field of contemporary ceramic sculpture, (March 1- April 19, at the Huntsville Museum of Art), a burgeoning community of amateur and professional potters and the retirement and relocation to Huntsville of Prof. Emeritus Curtis Benzle, who agreed to Chair the Conference. “After being in Huntsville for a few years, I realized the talent was here---it simply lacked a focal point to coalesce around”, commented Benzle. “The “Innovation and Change” exhibition provided the perfect impetus to lure the Clay Conference back and give our arts community a worthwhile challenge”.

When the 400 Clay Conference attendees return to Huntsville, they will experience an expanded version over previous years. “From the beginning our organizing committee was focused on making the Clay Conference serve the larger, Huntsville community”, recalls conference Vice Chair, Diane Walls. Accordingly, the 2009 Conference has added a community focus.

The main weekend event---the Alabama Clay Conference---will feature world renowned artist presentations. Robin Hopper, Canadian artist and author of six books on contemporary ceramics and Val Cushing (New York) will lecture and demonstrate techniques on Friday and Saturday (13-14th Piero Fenci, (Texas) and Angelica Pozo, (Ohio), will round out the ceramic demonstrations on Friday afternoon.

The “Artistic Intersection” panel; Saturday, March 14, 2:00-4:00 p.m. will feature visual presentations of projects completed by panel members in order to stimulate enthusiasm for incorporating artistic creativity in construction projects. The panel will be moderated by Toni Sikes, founder and publisher of the Guild Sourcebooks for Architects and Designers and the Artful Home catalog and web site. The panel will feature Huntsville area experts; Frank Nola, architect and principal with SKT Architects; Beverly Farrington, Interior Designer and owner of Accents of the South and Anders Andelfang, owner of ARC Design/Build. The “Artistic Intersection" is free and open to the public

On Sunday March 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., North Alabama artists are invited to brush up on their business skills at “The Business of Art” workshops. Individual sessions will focus on Photographing Art, Computer Basics-Web Site Development and Photoshop, and Art Business Basics-Office Control, Marketing, Legal Issues and Selling.

Sessions will be taught by Alabama experts. Gina Hurst (Art Consultant) and Alissa Ramsay (Average to Art) will team up to present Business Basics. Walter Schumacher (former President of the Huntsville Art League) will tackle Computer

Basics (web presence and Photoshop).Maria Spies (Mobile) will present Photographing Artwork with an emphasis on digital cameras and available lighting.

The Business of Art Workshops are designed for all types of artists and will be held in the Von Braun Center, South Hall Banquet Rooms on Sunday March 15, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Admission fee is $20.00, payable at the door. For more information visit the Alabama Clay Conference web site; www.alclayconference.org

Valley Planet Magazine to feature 2008 Cover Artists

Valley Planet Magazine

One event that is definitely worth coming out for is happening on Friday, March 6^th, and its FREE!

We are inviting all of you to the Celebration of the 2008 VP cover artists and the Best of the Valley Celebration at 801 Franklin Restaurant at 801 Franklin St. SE, Huntsville, AL.  The 2008 covers will be displayed at 801 Franklin Restaurant throughout March and April.

www.valleyplanet.com

www.801franklin.net

K.M. McWhorter featured on the Valley Planet Cover

                                                         

On the Cover: K.M. McWhorter

K.M. McWhorter was raised in Mobile, Alabama, graduated from the University of Alabama and lives in Decatur with her husband, Robert.

 In 1970, McWhorter fell in love with the lettering arts and in 1996 became interested in adding color and dimension to her work.  She then moved to exploring layers in her pieces using color, lettering and German Schlag leaf in various hues. Currently Kay's profoundly personal abstract and realistic watercolors reflect her joy in the world of nature without words or letters as she loses herself in color.

To read more of this Valley Planet article visit: http://www.valleyplanet.com/article.php?id=2459

Large Mural Opportunities available almost immediately.

From: "David Edwards" <DEdwards@artshuntsville.org>

Date: February 27, 2009

Subject: Large Mural Opportunities available almost immediately.

Hello all artists,

 

I wanted to let everyone know about an opportunity that needs to be exploited to help bring more public art to Huntsville. We will be taking proposals for murals on the north west side of Park Place off of Meridian St. The first opportunity is a 3foot x 80foot space and the second a 14foot by 100foot space. The subject matter should be some kind of interpretation of (primarily) Huntsville scene's…parks…pet parks…skate parks…historic scapes/people…landscapes…or combinations thereof. Once the widening project for Meridian St. in that area happens and when certain buildings come down, those mural  spaces will be come very visible from the road and highly trafficked as events take place at Sound Cell's "Lumberyard". Sound Cell is the sponsor for this and the Arts Council is organizing it for them. The particulars are still being hammered out but what we need from interested individuals are proposals and mockups/sketches of what you'd like to produce in either of those spaces. You can work as individuals, teams, or make use of lots of people, i.e. schools, civic clubs, Boys & Girls clubs etc.

 

Please contact me or send your proposals to us at the address below.

 

Thanks and I hope everyone can help us out to get a public art program instituted in Huntsville!

 

David Edwards

Curator & Programs Support

the ARTS COUNCIL, inc.

700 Monroe Street, Ste 2

Huntsville, AL 35801-5580

(256)-519-2787 x.207

www.artshuntsville.org

 

Schedule: Artist Interview Series with Beth Norwood- WHRL 89.3 Public Radio

Coming up this Friday, Feb. 27 Jennie Couch, clay/ceramic artist, (re: Clay Conference) part 3

PREVIOUSLY POSTED

Artist Interview Every Friday at Noon with Beth Norwood WHRL 89.3 FM Public Radio

From Beth Norwood:

There have been a few schedule changes... Mike Palmer's interview will not be played on January 30. That day, instead, we will play sculptor Jennifer Marsh. She will be talking a bit about PANOPLY and some other large community projects.

Here are the following interviews:

Friday, Feb. 6 Jennifer Marsh, sculptor
Friday, Feb. 13 Curt Benzle, porcelain artist (re: Clay Conference) part 1
Friday, Feb. 20 Curt Benzle, (re: Clay Conference) part 2
Friday, Feb. 27 Jennie Couch, clay/ceramic artist, (re: Clay Conference) part 3

Friday, March 6 Joe Fikes, photographer
Friday, March 13 Joe Fikes
Friday, March 20 Mike Palmer

Please keep posted for further schedule.

Sincerely,
Beth Norwood

If you are interested in speaking with Beth Norwood about your art, please contact her to schedule an interview.

Beth Norwood
WLRH 89.3 FM Public Radio
bnorwood@wlrh.org

UAH Campus
John Wright Drive
Huntsville, AL 35899
256-895-9574
www.wlrh.org

Alabama Arts Radio for Feb. 24th, Jerry Brown Arts Festival

Alabama Arts Radio Series
Tuesday, February 24th 7:00 p.m.

To help promote the upcoming Jerry Brown Arts Festival , this program is a rebroadcast of Joey Brackner interviewing Jerry Brown about the process of pottery making at his shop in Hamilton Alabama. This year the Jerry Brown Arts Festival is located at the Old WalMart Building at 1500 Military Street South, in Hamilton on March 7-8, 2009.

Each week, members of the Council staff will be visiting with Alabama’s musicians, painters, sculptors, writers, and other special individuals who contribute to the state’s rich artistic traditions. This special radio series will air every Tuesday evening, from 7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M., on the Troy University Public Radio network. The Troy University Public Radio network consists of WTSU 89.9 (serving Montgomery and Troy); WRWA 88.7 (serving Dothan); and WTJB 91.7 (serving Columbus and Phenix City). WTSU broadcasts news, cultural and informational programs and is affiliated with National Public Radio, Public Radio International, the Associated Press and the Alabama Broadcasters Association. This radio series may not be broadcast in your area, but it can be accessed via the Internet at: http://www.arts.alabama.gov /actc/1/radioseries.html#jerryfestival

If you have been listening to, and enjoying this radio series, please send your comments to: barbara.reed@arts.alabama.gov

High MP3


Lower 56K WMA Stream

Click Links Above to Listen to the Program First Hand

A New Resource for Artists: A Photo to Paint (Reference Photos)

From: "Tommy Thompson" <tommy@tommythompsonart.com>

A Special Note to All Artists or Aspiring Artists

 

 

In September 2008 I was invited to paint with a group of Atlanta (GA) Plein Air Painters in Monteagle, TN. We painted there for three enjoyable days. While there I met several older artists who had trouble getting to the more remote areas, so I shot photos of places like the "Fiery Gizzard" canyon in the South Cumberland State Park. The canyon is very narrow, with tall trees forming a canopy overhead.  Exposed tree roots and rock outcroppings make it difficult to traverse for some people.   After returning home, I sent a CD of my photos to some of the Atlanta painters. The response was so positive that I decided to develop a web site for artists who need reference photos to inspire paintings. 

After traveling to paint for more than 6 years, I now have a treasure trove of thousands of digital photographs, which are now featured on the easily searchable web site, http://www.aphototopaint.com. I am now offering 10-inch, 300-dpi versions of these photos, to be transmitted via email, at $10 each for purchase by other artists. Now artists can paint while referring to an inspiring photo displayed on their computer monitors. Artists do not have to worry about copyright infringement because anyone who purchases a photograph from me receives a license to paint from the photo. I have categorized my photos according to such subjects as landscapes, flowers, barns, figures, cows, birds, cats, dogs, clouds, churches, hay bales, gardens, rivers and creeks, architecture, and location, etc. I shot the digital photos in Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Wyoming, plus Canada. A free 10-inch 300 dpi photo of an image is available on the web site's front page. More photos are being added to the web site almost every day.

It is always best to paint onsite when possible, but sometimes the weather does not cooperate. If any artists do not have photographs that are suitable to inspire paintings. I hope that we have some that will provide that inspiration for them.

If you know any artists who may need this service, please pass this link to them: http://www.aphototopaint.com.  If you conduct painting workshops and need postcards to distribute to your students, just send an email to us, and we will gladly ship as many as you need.

All the Best,

Tommy Thompson
209 Shirley Drive 
Florence, AL  35633
256-767-0422
256-710-3730 (cell)
Email:  tommy@tommythompsonart.com
http://www.tommythompsonart.com
http://www.aphototopaint.com
http://tommythompsonart.blogspot.com

Traditional Landscapes and Portraits in Oil

Artist Alan Derrick to Create Sculpture for Wildlife Conservation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Keith Kizer at 256.776.4762

contact@derrick.com

 

 

Artist Alan Derrick to Create Sculpture for Wildlife Conservation

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama (February 19, 2009) – Fine art sculptor, Alan Derrick has teamed with the Utah Chukar and Wildlife Foundation to raise money for wild bird conservation. A one-of-a-kind sculpture depicting a Chukar Partridge's signature barred breast feather is being created to be auctioned with proceeds benefiting Chukar and Wildlife conservation. The Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar) is a beautiful gallinaceous gamebird, related to pheasants, grouse, and quail.

The UCWF is a non-profit organization focused on improving chukar and other upland game populations, habitat, and hunting on Utah's public lands. One of the main goals of the UCWF is to support solid scientific wildlife management. Through continued education, study, and legislation they strive to enhance upland game management practices.  "Teaming with sculptor, Alan Derrick, is an outstanding opportunity for us to generate increased funds that will directly benefit Utah's public wildlife," said Travis Proctor, UCWF President. "Our current water development projects and guzzler research in conjunction with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Brigham Young University, and Utah State University are providing invaluable wildlife management data involving over 47 species of wildlife."  Visit www.utahchukar.org for more conservation details.

"After a recent trip to Brazil, I came home with a renewed desire to support a few of the many organizations who are responsible for the preservation of the birding population," commented Alan Derrick. "Without the efforts of organizations like the Utah Chukar and Wildlife Foundation, many of our bird populations would soon be extinct."  "My work is a commemorative testimony to these great causes that insure the natural beauty of the common bird feather".

The auction will be held online on eBay, listed under "Art, Direct from Artist, Sculptures" ending on April 12^th at 9:00pm EST. Organizations dedicated to the preservation of birding are encouraged to contact the Alan Derrick Studio for fund raising consideration.

About Alan Derrick: Sculptor, Alan Derrick specializes in one-of-a-kind fine art metal sculptures inspired by the common bird feather.  His unique three-dimensional creations range in sizes from tabletop pieces to large corporate lobby installations.  For more information, visit www.derrick.com.

 

About Utah Chukar and Wildlife Foundation: The Utah Chukar and Wildlife Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving upland game populations, habitat, and wildlife on Utah's public lands.  The UCWF generates funds, provides volunteers, and secures matching funds for quality wildlife habitat projects and research on public lands.  Visit www.utahchukars.org for more information. 

Huntsville, AL Decorative/Faux Finisher Goes International

Average To Art’s Alissa & Austin Ramsay are back from their Puerto Vallarta custom art project! Alissa has started posting photos on their blog, BUT MORE are to come!

Huntsville Decorative/Faux Finishers work in Puerto Vallarta- see photos at www.AverageToArt.blogspot.com

Dr. Gail Bergeron discusses "Having Fun with Art."

Faculty in spotlight for Athens event

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

From staff reports

Madison Spirit

Lectures from field of expertise to be offered to visitors

ATHENS - Athens State University students and alumni are getting a unique homecoming: Forget the queen and king and their court. Instead, the university's talented faculty will provide informative lectures for the community.

To read more of this copyright article and the list of lectures please visit: 

http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/limestone.ssf?/base/news/1234952228217220.xml&coll=1

Dr. Gail Bergeron discusses "Having Fun with Art."

Registration is limited and reservations may be made by calling 233-8126.

A full listing of the day's events can be found at http://www.athens.edu/colloquium.

Do you want to display your artwork on the walls of City Hall?

Arts Council set to spruce up City Hall interior

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

By GREGG L. PARKER

For the Madison Spirit writeone35758@yahoo.com

Program will feature artworks in main hallway

Madison City Hall's main hallway will soon have a classy look with a feel of the visual arts. The Madison Arts Council is sponsoring the "Art at City Hall" program.

Mayor Paul Finley approved the arts council's idea to line the south hallway that leads to his office with paintings and other two-dimensional art pieces.

"That hallway is bare naked now," said MAC vice president Prue Carrico, who along with president Jeanne Steadman are coordinating the project.

"The artwork hopefully will enhance the appearance of that area in City Hall. Also, regional artists will have an opportunity to display their work in a tasteful location," Carrico said.

Steadman said, "Having your artwork displayed in City Hall will be a great honor. Everyone will see your work there."

MAC hopes to start the exhibit in March. "We're spreading the word now. We hope artists will tell their friends," Steadman said. The arts council expects Madison residents to participate but welcomes artists from across North Alabama. Depending on the collection's size, approximately 20 pieces will be displayed. Art on display will be changed out quarterly.

To read more of this copyright article please go to: 

http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/madison.ssf?/base/news/1234952169217220.xml&coll=1

For "Art at City Hall," an application is available at www.madisonartscouncil.net. Artists can mail completed applications to Madison Arts Council, P.O. Box 1929, Madison, AL 35758. For moreinformation, call 461-8938 or 783-8621.

Beverly Basham's website

"Brittany's Prize" by Beverly Basham, copyright
The Art Blog just added wild life artist, Beverly Basham's website to the Artist Links. Please take a peek at:

www.TwoCedarsStudio.com

The Bench Project Promotes Public Art

Update: The Bench Project, by elementary school students, promotes Public Art. Check out the website and blog:

The Bench Project is an ongoing program of the Alabama Craft Council. For information about
bench sponsorship or school participation, contact Jennie Couch at 256-489-0334 or jencouch@gmail.com.

Posted last summer on the art blog:


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jennie Couch
256-489-0334
jencouch@gmail.com

Bench Project Promotes Public Art
The Bench Project promises to bridge the gap between public art and popular taste in Huntsville, AL. Through the combined efforts of the Alabama Craft Council, Alabama A & M University and individual or corporate sponsors, Huntsville area elementary students team with professional artists and educators to create pedestrian friendly, beautiful benches to enhance public parks and greenways.

Getting the Bench Project off to a great start, Mastin Lake Elementary School teamed with Alabama A & M University Fraternal Council, under the guidance of artist and A & M Prof. Jennie Couch, to create a bench for the A & M campus. Mastin Lake Art Instructor Natalie Hughes worked with A & M's Couch to implement a lesson plan created in conjunction with A & M Art Education graduate students in order to create tiles for the inaugural bench. After the student's tiles were affixed to a commercial grade, concrete bench, the Mastin Lake Bench was installed on the A& M campus, where it now beautifies the environment, offers welcome rest and relaxation to campus travelers and stands as a point of pride for visiting Mastin Lake students and family members.

The Bench Project is an ongoing program of the Alabama Craft Council. For information about
bench sponsorship or school participation, contact Jennie Couch at 256-489-0334 or jencouch@gmail.com.
The Alabama Bench Project is supported by the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the Huntsville
Arts Council.

Submitted by Connor Lowry, HSV Museum of Art
www.hsvmuseum.org

Tommy Thompson Named One of Ten Featured Artists for Gadsden Museum of Art's Southeastern Plein Air Festival

Art News

 Tommy Thompson Named One of Ten Featured Artists for Gadsden Museum of Art's Southeastern Plein Air Festival

 

        Florence, AL, February 16, 2009--Oil painter Tommy Thompson has been named one of ten featured artists at the Gadsden (AL) Museum of Art's Southeastern Plein Air Festival during April 27-May 1, 2009. Other artists from throughout the southeast will also be participating in this open air painting event at scenic Gadsen, the Queen City of the Coosa River, located in northeastern Alabama.

During the week-long outdoor painting festival, artists from Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, and elsewhere will capture on canvas such sights as the mountaintop waterfall, Noccalula Falls; views of the Coosa River; downtown street scenes; cotton fields; log cabins; elegant historic homes; scenic overlooks; and private and public botanical gardens. The festival will conclude with a wet paint auction and month-long exhibition in galleries and online (http://www.gadsdenmuseum.com).

The artists will be treated to a variety of picnics, dinners, entertainment, and parties sponsored by the Gadsden Museum of Art Foundation, the Gadsden Art Association, Gadsden Parks and Recreation Department, Gadsden Chamber of Commerce, and others. The Alabama State Council on the Arts will also provide funding for the week-long festival.

Because the Festival will announce the painting locations each day via the Museum's web site and the local media, interested art appreciators and collectors will be able to watch the Festival artists in action as they create their works of art. The Museum will conduct tours of the painting sites for the interested public. Every day the plein air paintings will be posted on the Museum's web site in an online auction. The public will vote for the People's Choice Award online and in person at the auction. The Foundation Board will select the recipient of a Museum Purchase Award.

For more information, please log onto the Gadsden Museum of Art's web site at http://www.gadsdenmuseum.com.  To learn more about Tommy Thompson and his artwork, check out his web site at http://www.tommythompsonart.com.

Contact:        Marie K. Thompson

                        marie@tommythompsonart.com        

                        256-767-0422

Robert "Mutt" Suttles newest painting

Bill Gurley, Senior VP of SAIC, by Robert "Mutt" Suttles, copyright

I thought I would share with the art blog Mutt Suttles recent oil portrait.

If you are interested in a commissioned portrait please contact Mutt at robert.w.suttles@saic.com or 256-971-6778

To see more of this very talented artist's work please visit: www.PortraitsByMutt.com

Other Robert "Mutt" Suttles postings on the art blog:
http://huntsvilleartblog.blogspot.com/search?q=mutt+suttles

Artist Judy Bobula Featured in the Redstone Rocket

Judy Bobula in her studio. Photo credit Kari Hawkins, Redstone Rocket Staff

Local artist finds inspiration in nature, travels

Redstone Rocket, staff writer Kari Hawkins, karihawk@knology.net

Judy Bobula knew her husband-to-be was a real keeper when he suggested adding an artist's studio during a renovation of his home in Huntsville's Five Points.

"No one had ever offered me anything like that before," she said, still amazed by the act of generosity.

Bobula was particularly grateful for the offer because at the time she was painting in a closet in the townhouse where she lived.

"You can tell a real artist because they are willing to paint anywhere," she said with a laugh.

To read more of this copyright article please visit:
http://www.army.mil/-news/2009/01/29/16229-local-artist-finds-inspiration-in-nature-travels/

More information about Bobula's art career can be found on her website: www.JudyBobula.com.

Currently her work is on display at the Redstone Arts and Crafts Center and at the Starbucks on Governors Drive near Huntsville Hospital. She will also participate in the Art in Bloom exhibit at the Huntsville Museum of Art on April 3-4.

HSV Times Article: Robert Carter, Carousel Wood Carver

Love of art, cabinetry translates into creative carvings of animals

Thursday, February 05, 2009

By MIKE MARSHALL

Times Staff Writer mike.marshall@htimes.com

In a brick house in Owens Cross Roads, among the tidy lawns near the base of Monte Sano, is a man who carves carousel animals.

Robert Carter, 75, is a retired engineer who considers himself among the last of the carousel carvers.

"A nearly lost art form,'' as he puts it.

According to the National Carousel Association, there are about 300 carousels left in America, most of them made before 1960.

Carter's introduction to carving carousel animals came in the early 1990s, after his retirement from Lockheed Martin.

His wife, Aggie, sent him to Horsin' Around in Chattanooga, the only carousel-carving school in America.

At first, she did not tell him that she was sending him to carousel-carving school.

"I took him over and said I wanted to show him something,'' she says. "When we got there, I told him this was a new school and he saw all the animal carvings in the windows.''

He was amazed, as she recalls, by the horses and elephants, all of them carved, in a second-story window.

For much of his life, he had been interested in making cabinets and art - drawing cartoons, mostly.

TO READ MORE OF THIS COPYRIGHT STORY PLEASE VISIT:

http://www.al.com/living/huntsvilletimes/index.ssf?/base/living/1233829024315960.xml&coll=1

WISMAR WINNER IN NATIONAL JEWELRY DESIGN COMPETITION

WISMAR WINNER IN NATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITION

 

Bill Wismar of Metal Benders Gallery (Fairhope) took first place in Category II of the Jewelers of America's 19^th annual Affiliate Design Competition held during the JA New York Show last month.  His handmade necklace of gold and gemstones was judged by a panel of industry experts on craftsmanship, marketability, practicality/ wearability and overall design.

 

In April 2008, Wismar won first place in Category II and Best of Show with this necklace at the Jewelers of Alabama Design Competition.  This honor allowed him to compete in the 2009 National Competition in New York. You can see the necklace at www.MetalBendersGallery.com

HGTV Co-Founder Coming To Huntsville for Event!

What types of Leadership will be needed in these tough times?

Join others in business and leadership on Tuesday, March 3rd to hear Susan Packard - Co-Founder of HGTV cable network , and a leader in the brand development of Food Network, DIY Network, Fine Living TV Network, and Great American Country (GAC) approach this topic from her perspective as a media pioneer, innovator, and mentor at the Huntsville Marriott, 11:30 a.m.

Through a multi-media presentation, Ms. Packard will share experiences gained while co-founding HGTV along with highlighting other business and industry leadership examples that she believes we all can learn from. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by a fellow business woman who has made an economic impact in her local community of Knoxville, Tennessee and way beyond through creativity and innovation.

To purchase individual tickets ($35) or corporate tables online or learn more about WEDC's 2009 Influencing Women Speaker – Susan Packard – go to www.wedc-online.com. Seating is limited – early ticket purchase is recommended. Reservation deadline - Wednesday, February 25. WEDC's Influencing Women Series Presenting Sponsor is Huntsville Hospital.
Women's Economic Development Council (WEDC) and the American Association of University Women (AAUW) are hosting a moderated session immediately following the luncheon to encourage dialogue among participants on current and future economic issues where our community of women can be impactful.

WEDC's mission is to influence economic development through education, mentoring, and networking while providing leadership opportunities to women. WEDC exists to strengthen the position of women in business and in the community.

Local Artist Featured in "From House to Home"

                                                To take you to the spot, click ARTICLE

Pick up the new Feb/Mar issue of "From House to Home" at your local paint store, restaurant, grocery etc. and you will find one of our own. Local artist and faux finisher Ricky Sauls. Ricky is a self taught artist who holds a degree in Graphic design. In 1992 Ricky created his first faux finish. He has be intrigued ever since. For the past four years he has dedicated himself full time to perfecting his finishes. Some of Ricky's work can be seen through Richard Cable Interiors and other local designers as well as private clients throughout the Huntsville area. His website is coming soon....so keep your eye out! Ricky is best known for turning the "Ordinary into the Extraordinary".

Madison Artist Betty Burchfield: He Lives, Jesus Lives

From Madison, AL, Artist Betty Burchfield:

JESUS LIVES FRAMED, by Betty Burchfield, copyright

Every artist should paint a picture such as this. One can feel His sweet Holy Spirit as the brush is busy capturing the sweet story of Jesus. HE LIVES! At first, I looked at the painting and was trying to capture Him walking on water. My son, Don, came in and viewed it and then started laughing. "Mom" he said "He looks like He is surfing". So, I decided to "still the waters" around His feet. Then, decided to move the Cross to the other side of the picture and wanted to share the final results. See more pictures below.

May He Bless you and keep you safe, my friends.
Betty

More about Betty Burchfield and her "Original Creations by Little Reb" can be found on her websites at:
Custom Oil Paintings
http://www.treasuredreflections.net
Home of the Little Reb Doll Molds, Patterns, Restorations, and Dolls
http://www.littlereb.com

JESUS LIVES

Jesus surfing

The Arts Council is on FACE BOOK

Check out The Arts Council's Face Book

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Huntsville-AL/The-Arts-Council-Inc/40579024000

Book mark it and see what our arts community is up to!

Lou Ann Lanier of Faux & Beyond on NPR today!

Lanier is a faux finish artist and instructor in Madison, Ala. She's following a tradition that's thousands of years old, in which artists use thin layers of paints, glazes and plaster to create tricks of the eye. For her clientele, Lanier can make almost any surface look like marble, leather and metal.
Ten years ago, the self-taught artist was running a bustling business when she got a strange request from her husband: He wanted her to camouflage his Jeep for hunting. Other camouflaging techniques, such as decals, are expensive — not to mention shiny, which can scare animals off. Lanier's husband wanted something special for duck season. At first she, balked at the idea of camouflage.....

Read more:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=100019895

Lou Ann Lanier of Faux & Beyond on NPR today!

Artist & Wedding Photographer Huntsville, AL

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Neville Simpson was born in Guyana, South America; Grew up in Brooklyn, NY and currently reside in Huntsville, AL. He loves God, people, and art!

Neville's story is one of perseverance, strength and the willingness to follow his bliss.

As you can see above, Neville has an eye for catching the right moments of your wedding. He is also available for engagement & anniversary portraits.

If you have a wedding coming up in Hunstville/Madison County, call N’Sight Photography. 256.694.9349 Neville is also available for travel.

http://www.nsightphoto.com/ Click on the link to take you to his BLOG, Website, and NHS Fine Arts

Free Drawing Class for Senior Citizens

The Huntsville/Madison County Senior Center, 2200 Drake Ave. will host a 16 week drawing class for senior citizens beginning this Wednesday, Feb. 4th. Classes will be weekly from 9 AM to Noon. Instruction is FREE, and students are responsible for furnishing their own supplies. To register, call Lorie Vital at (256) 880-7080, ext. 203

Listed in the Sunday Huntsville Times "Arts in Brief" by John Bullington

Featured Artist: Ann Hamilton

"Enchanted Gardens I" by Ann Hamilton, copyright
"American Eagle Flying Over the Grand Canyon" by Ann Hamilton, copyright
"Morning Awakening" by Ann Hamilton, copyright

Artist, Ann Hamilton

In the early part of my adult life I was blessed with being able to use my gift of writing to become editor of a small community newspaper. It was not until my husband died in 1981 that I enrolled in college and began the study of art. My plans were to become a school teacher in order to be able to spend more time with my young son, who was nine years old at the time of his father’s death. Instead, once I took my first art course I was captivated.
As a result of this I spent the next four years taking all of the art courses I could at Northeast Alabama Junior College, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, and finally, getting my degree at Athens State University. This experience was the beginning of my pursuit of seeing and expressing my self through art. This journey has immeasurably enhanced my life, and I hope the lives of others around me, especially the individuals who have taken my art classes and workshops. It has been them and others artists that have most inspired me to continue to seek the meaning of art, as well as to continue to grow as an artist.
I have become an experimentalist, both as an artist and as a teacher. My students say they have learned for more in seeing me work than they ever could have from my more traditional lessons. They learn not to be afraid; that it is alright to make mistakes, and that these mistakes may become their best paintings. Watching them grow as artists is as rewarding to me as developing as an artist myself. Landscapes are my favorite art subject. My memory and my imagination provide the reference material for most of these kinds of paintings. I begin them by deciding where the light will come from and what colors to use. Often, I establish the beginnings of a path as a focal point of the painting. After I have gone this far, I usually step away from the painting and begin a different process; that of attempting to see it separately from myself. Following this, I paint freely until I feel my imagination is exhausted. Then, the tough part starts - bringing the painting together with harmony until it feels complete. Four years of studying art while working on a degree gave me the techniques and skills that I needed to become a professional artist. Continuing lessons and attending workshops further helped me to gain confidence in myself and my work. I have taken numerous workshops. I now show in local shows, exhibitions, and galleries. This year (2009), I have decided to open The Art for Art Lovers Retreat in my 1890’s Victorian Home, I envision welcoming artists from far and wide to the experiences that this lovely home and my large art studio have played into the development of my self as an artist. The URL for the Retreat Web Site is: http://artforartlovers.net

ArtforArtLovers - 450 Elm St NW, Fort Payne, Al 35967-Phone: (256) 845 3398; Email: artforartlovers@artforartlovers.net

Ann Hamilton
ann_hamilton@bellsouth.net
website:www.artforartlovers.net
blog:www.artforartlovers.net/blog/

Featured Artist: TK Selleck

"Dew Kissed" by TK Selleck, copyright

If I ever doubt that God loves me—all I have to do is look at nature. His beauty and love is shown in everyday things. This rose covered in dewdrops is outside my back door.
Man, with all our abilities, could never hope to achieve such greatness.

"Majestic Monarch" by TK Selleck, copyright

The butterfly does nothing to enhance its’ beauty—it is just itself. The butterfly does what God made it to do…be a butterfly. Yet when we look at it, we can see God’s glory.
When we are who God made us to be—we hope to reflect His glory.

"Sanctuary" by TK Selleck, copyright

When I first saw this sight, I felt a wave of peace wash over me. As I looked at the trees near the end of the water’s path, the morning light was pouring through the archway. The thought struck me that here was God’s natural sanctuary—a place to let your mind rest—a place where your soul could fill with peace—a place to feel God’s love. It’s moments like these that are forever ingrained on my soul.

TK Selleck

Artist Bio

"I want my work to reflect God's Majesty. There are so many things around us that we bypass in our hurried lives. We wonder where God is, when He's really been there the whole time. He sends a butterfly our way and we swat at it—it's a nuisance. We see raindrops on rose petals and wonder if we've packed our umbrella. We drive thru a beautiful mountain pass and wonder how much longer until we arrive.

How many times had I, in my hectic life, missed the beauty God had created? I began to make a point to notice them more. Now, I want to capture these endless, fascinating things so others can see God's majesty."

T K Selleck Photography: Revealing God's Majesty Thru Photography. Scriptures added to amazing landscapes, delicate flowers, and intricate butterfly scenes make TK Selleck's photos stand out as an intimate combination of the spiritual and visual. TK specializes in landscape and nature photography.

Please visit TK's website at: www.tkselleck.com
Please visit TK's blog at tkselleck.blogspot.com
You can reach TK at: tk@tkselleck.com

Featured Artist: Dana Bathhurst

"Put the Ball Right Here" Oil by Dana Bathurst, copyright

"Dreamscape" Oil by Dana Bathurst, copyright

"Miny" Woodblock by Dana Bathurst, copyright


Artist, DANA BATHURST

Having been around for a while--from University of Oklahoma days in the 1960s to my years as an art teacher, retiring from Catholic High School in 2007--I've had a few decades to figure out what I believe about the importance of art--generally and in my life. A couple of things keep cropping up.

First, visual art, in all its many forms from fine art to applied art, has always seemed to me to be one of the truest records of civilization. Writing can be skewed one way or another, but it is harder to hide who you are in visual art. Even if you outright intend to deceive, still the place, conditions, and values of your time show through. Viewers can 'read' at least some things in
artworks without having to understand the spoken language of their creators And artists can show you what it is like--not only how it looks, but how it feels--to be alive in their lifetimes. What is important to them? What is not? What are they in harmony with? What are they reacting against?

Second, art is so ubiquitous, so constantly present all around us, that it is often taken for granted. Even in education systems, which should know better, it is considered a subject that can be left out of the curriculum if money is tight. It is thought of as a "frill", though it is anything but. Someone designed the buildings where these decisions are made. Someone designed every chair, every item of clothing, every design on fabrics, every shoe, every coffee mug, every dashboard of every car. Someone designed every street sign, every cereal box, every sofa, every table lamp. These are practical arts, architecture, industrial and graphic design. We, and all civilizations that led up to us, have had to have our artists--'makers'--to help fill daily needs. We need 'em now, and we're going to need new ones in the future.

How this plays out in my life as a so-called retired person is twofold:

I add my artist's visual 'voice' to the chorus of humanity. "What audacity," I think. I am a brief note in a complex and monumental symphony that stretches back to the time before writing. Yet this is my voice, and it's like my vote--even one counts. My life experience is different from any other's. Things I see and feel as an artist are influenced by my time and place, no doubt. But there will be some part that can only come from me. It's worth doing.

As a teacher, I help pass the torch. Several of my students have taken hold of it, going on to take art degrees in college and find work as young professionals in this important field.

In my studio, I am involved in acrylic and oil painting, block printing, drawing, and paper mache sculpture. I am in love with line and explore this art element in nearly every medium.

I am also teaching individuals and small groups--continuing on a small scale the work which I found to be so supremely fulfilling, once I finally got to do it. (I was fifty before I got to teach art full time.) Presently, I am conducting an adult class in papier mache sculpture; a middle- school age small group in glueline relief and printmaking; and individual private lessons for
high school age students.

I maintain my Alabama State Teaching Certification in Art Education, K - 12. In addition, I am a member of the Huntsville-Madison County Art Educators Association (HMCAEA) and the Huntsville Museum of Art.

My website is a work-in-progress which I hope to have up and running soon. In the meantime, inquiries about upcoming lesson series may be sent to me online at dbathurst2@gmail.com.

Featured Artist: Lara Isbell

"Still Life 1" by Lara Isbell, copyright
"Still Life 2" by Lara Isbell, copyright
"Still Life 3" by Lara Isbell, copyright

Lara Isbell is a native of Huntsville, Alabama. She is a graduate of Louisiana State University and The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Lara has shown her work in Huntsville, Chicago, San Francisco, New Orleans, Seaside, Florida and Washington D.C. Lara has been interested in creating "gourmet art" for the past 7 years. Her work has been featured at Pauli's Restaurant for the past 8 years.

Lara is currently working on a new series of Wine as Art paintings. The works will be part of the Gourmet Art series. She has been focused on painting the "occasion in waiting" still life's she is known for. She is using handmade pigments from reduced wine and local red clay. Again, all are titled with witty quotes by infamous people.

Lara's interest in “wine art” grew from a passion for food, wine and entertaining. Her pieces remind us of the enjoyment found in sharing good times with friends and family. She has collected hundreds of classic quotes on the subject of wine, drinking and entertaining. The painting titles are based on these unique quotes.

Lara Isbell
The Wine Source
www.laraisbell.com
256.457.3819
lara@laraisbell.com
laraisbell@aol.com

From Vicki Garner: Help me name the painting!

From: vicki garner  at: applepandowdy@hotmail.com

Hey everyone,
 
HELP ME NAME THE PAINTING!
 
Attached is a link to my latest painting of some tractors that I finished yesterday.  I am having trouble coming up with a catchy name for it so I decided to turn this into a contest.  The person who submits the name I decide to use will win a matted reproduction print of my painting of the apples and basket.
 
Good luck to everyone and hope to hear from you soon!
 
Vicki
applepandowdy@hotmail.com 
 
http://www.applepandowdy.com/Tractors.jpg
 
http://www.applepandowdy.com/applebasket.jpg

www.applepandowdy.com