Sherry Blatner
Hope you made it to the 2017 Meet the Artists event last month. The painters and wood crafters displayed an expanded array of their works replete with wine, chocolate and personal moments. But they certainly did not need to provide anything more than their skill and creativity to wow you with their work. And business was booming through Gallery sales!
I had the pleasure of making new acquaintance with some of the artisans and renewing friendship with others. And I was able to connect with some of the patrons who purchased new works for their homes. It was exciting to learn the perspective of each artisan and also their impact on the rest of us.
Betty Jean Kennedy displayed acrylic wrap paintings and introduced me to Diane Walenda who took the time to educate me on one of the newer techniques used by herself and other PebbleCreek artists, alcohol ink. The artist drops luminous inks onto various surfaces, including glass, ceramic or YUPO (a waterproof synthetic paper), to create beautiful freeform images. One artist embellished her work with Swarovski crystal beads. While no class is currently scheduled, I was the second person to ask to be placed on a wait-list.
Judy Hale was excited to show me a detailed work she painted entitled, View from a Drone, created on foam core for a multi-dimensional effect. It portrayed an urban area from above as seen through the eyes of a drone. If you missed it at the show, you need to know Eloise and Steve Orrell, the proud new owners of this work. They indicated they like its abstract imagery, the colors and that it is so different!
Loretta Pruett displayed a handsome acrylic entitled Michael. This image was of her grandson wailing on a saxophone; it took a year to complete and it is not for sale. I was just glad to be able to appreciate him at the show. Loretta, is there a concert scheduled?
I met Tom Wick, President of the Wood Carvers Club. He said the question he was most asked is whether the carvers use cutouts or blocks. The answer: everything made by club members is made “from scratch.” Everything on display was made in 2017; they certainly were busy beavers (I just couldn’t resist!).
Tom showed me pieces of bark carving; the bark is peeled off trees in three to five inch depths. One work was a clock tower by Richard Schmidt; unbelievable workmanship. But before you rush out into a forest and start peeling bark, many trees are protected and permits may be required. Join the club to gain access to the source material and to hone your skills.
Chris Pelika specializes in carvings of Peregrine Falcons. He uses Tupelo wood and enhances his stunning work by use of color pencils. Tom Wick enjoys crafting hand-carved Northwest Pacific masks. While Tom only began carving three years ago, he is already teaching his craft.
While the event is over, take time to meet the artists year-round through their work in the Gallery.
This wraps up the first year of my articles in support of the Gallery and its consignors. When you stop in to make your next purchase, let staff know you read about it here.