"steel FORESTS: LEAVES, LIMBS AND LANDSCAPES" EXHIBIT AT YADKIN ARTS

The Wellborne Gallery at Yadkin Cultural Arts Center

YADKINVILLE, NC--My latest show, "Steel Forests: Leaves, Limbs and Landscapes" opened last night at the Yadkin Arts Council. The show is a collaborative one featuring the incredible sculptures of Howard Bemus alongside some of my landscape paintings. It will remain on exhibit through March 30, 2018. 

Howard is a classically-trained Bonsai artist who creates "trees you can't kill" out of metal.
Howard, whom I found to be as delightful and personable as he is creative, studied art in college and worked in commercial photography for many years.

When photography moved into the digital realm, Howard felt it was time for a change. He became interested in the art of Bonsai and moved to Florida to study under a master. There, he learned to create the shapes and textures of real trees that he would eventually translate through his sculpture.  He took a job at a friend’s metal shop in Greensboro, discovered welding and began experimenting with the scraps of metal left over from each day’s work. (source: Fox8News)

In addition to the pleasure of meeting Howard and having my paintings displayed amongst his beautiful sculptures, I was also thrilled to see what a truly gorgeous space the Wellborn Gallery is. The gallery also serves as the lobby of the Willingham Theater. I was intrigued by its great-looking lineup, which includes several fun musicals like "Footloose" and "Almost Heaven" as well as concerts by popular musicians such as the Malpass Brothers (fair warning: get your tickets early if you see something you like, as many are already sold out!). 

I was told by Yadkin Chamber Director Bobby Todd there are 15 vineyards in the Yadkinville area, which promote many events and festivals. If you're looking for the perfect Valentine's weekend or other romantic getaway, consider booking one of the area's charming bed-and-breakfasts, attending a wine and food event, and seeing a concert or dramatic performance at the Yadkin Cultural Arts Center--you simply can't go wrong! The Center is also home to multiple art galleries, artist studios, creative classrooms, and the Center Bistro. Click here to read more about the Yadkin Cultural Arts Center and its history in this article from Our State Magazine.